Dental anxiety is real, and it’s really awful. We in the industry get it: going to the dentist can be tough. If you have a slight aversion to coming down to your local clinic for whatever reason, imagine having full-blown dental anxiety! It’s a real problem that can keep people away from the dentist for years.
Unfortunately, avoiding your clinic can lead to all kinds of dental problems like bump on gums. Your oral health affects many other aspects of your bodily operation, and so the last thing you want is to avoid your local expert if you feel you’re at risk of developing a serious problem.
But we know that the fear is real, and we know that your phobias may be keeping you from us. However, there are numerous steps you can take to overcome your fears and ensure your oral health and hygiene is where it should be – top notch!
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Look for a practice that accommodates your fears
You’re not alone. In fact, dental anxiety is so common that some of the pioneering advancements in modern dentistry are designed to counter the fear. For example, the cost of sleep dentistry in Melbourne is wonderfully affordable and can help counter any fears that may be keeping you from receiving what could be a life-changing procedure!
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Choose a calming clinic
Clinics have come a long way since the “sit and read a 10 year old Vogue until your name is called” days. Modern clinics should have calming facilities that help reduce your fears before it’s time for your appointment.
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Take a friend/loved one with you
Because they can help take your mind off any fears that may be stressing you out pre-appointment.
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Arrive on time (but not too early!)
You may find yourself getting a bit stressed in the waiting room – we’ve all been there! So, try to arrive on time, but not too early, as you don’t want to be sitting around with your mind focused solely on whatever fear has been keeping you from the dentist all this time!
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Focus on your breath pre-appointment
Regardless of how early you arrive for your appointment, it’s important to focus on your breathing as a method of calming any nerves you may be experiencing.
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Ask about your sedation options
Once again, there are medical advancements at your disposal, and you can choose from a range of sedation techniques to alleviate the stress and strain of undergoing treatment.
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Your treatment should be pain-free
Pain-free dentistry exists in 2023, and you are entitled to it. It’s your expert’s job to ensure this happens and your job to speak up if they aren’t making it happen.
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Ask questions to dispel fears
Don’t be afraid to ask questions regarding your fears before the procedure. You can even ask them throughout so that you know exactly what is happening throughout the entire process.
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You should be able to take a break
If you need one. The sensitive modern dentist will be there to accommodate your need to take a break.
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Book your follow-up before taking off
You might take off from the clinic without the intention of coming back. But, more often than not, procedures and treatments require follow up appointments to ensure they are doing the job.
So, don’t be afraid to make a follow-up appointment whilst you’re in the office – it could mean all the difference between coming back or letting future fears stop you from ensuring your oral health!
