Your Calgary dentist understands that dental anxiety is the fear of visiting a dentist for any procedure, ranging from simple cleanings to root canals or extractions. This anxiety can be caused by several factors, such as a bad experience, a fear of needles, blood, or medical procedures.
According to Statistics Canada, 40 per cent of Canadians possess some anxiety or fear about visiting the dentist, and 22 per cent experience extreme dental phobia. This prevents millions of Canadians from getting the proper dental care they need to manage their oral health.
The good news is that with patience and diligence, dental anxiety can be overcome. The more visits you pay your dentist, the better your oral health will be and the less you’ll have to revisit! Here’s some simple tips and techniques to help you achieve that:
Choose the right dentist:
When booking an appointment with your dentist, it might be beneficial to request a consultation meeting first. Talking to a dentist who is patient, kind, and willing to explain everything about the procedures can help make you feel more comfortable. A good dentist will also have sedation options available to help you relax during the procedure.
Practice meditation techniques:
If you start to feel your heartbeat increase, a shortness of breath, or you start to shake during your appointment, some meditation techniques such as controlled breathing, mindful thinking, or focused meditation can help bring you back to a calmer state of mind.
Bring a friend or family member:
Having someone you trust to accompany you can help you feel more relaxed if you need to undergo treatment or surgery. If you’re feeling anxious about an upcoming procedure, consider asking a loved one to come along for emotional and mental support.
Listen to music:
Listening to music during a procedure can help distract you from any sounds or sensations you may find unnerving. Whether it’s a soothing instrumental playlist or your favourite heavy metal band, music can be deeply therapeutic and help tune out the dentist’s drill.
Talk to your dentist about sedation:
Different levels of sedation are available, including mild sedation with nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and deep sedation with an IV injection. The level of sedation needed depends on the severity of your anxiety and the type of procedure you’re having.
Remember, it’s important to take care of your oral health, so don’t let your anxieties stop you from getting the treatment you need. You’ve got this! Our compassionate staff are also always willing to lend you a helping hand.