Overcoming dental anxiety: tips for getting the treatment you need
Dental anxiety is a common fear that keeps many people from seeking dental treatment. And this fear often leads to people putting off necessary dental treatment, which can cause more problems down the road. But there are ways to overcome dental anxiety at Forest Dental and get the treatment you need.
Supporting friends and family: What is dental anxiety and why do people experience it?
Dental anxiety is an excessive fear or nervousness about visiting the dentist. It can range from mild to so severe that it prevents people from seeking necessary dental treatment. Dental anxiety may be caused by a fear of discomfort, needles or drills. It can also be triggered by memories of a negative experience at the dentist or by watching someone else undergo treatment.
What are the consequences of not getting treatment due to dental anxiety?
The consequences of not getting treatment due to dental anxiety can be significant. If left untreated, cavities can form and lead to tooth decay and even loss of teeth. Gum disease is another serious dental condition that can develop if oral hygiene is not maintained. Gum disease can cause inflammation and bleeding in the gums, tooth loss, and even heart problems. Untreated dental problems can also lead to headaches, neck pain, and other health issues. It is important to get the treatment you need to maintain your oral health and avoid these serious consequences.
How can you overcome dental anxiety and get the treatment you need?
Dental anxiety can be paralyzing, preventing people from getting the dental treatment they need. But with a few simple tips, you can overcome your anxiety and get the care you need. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Talk to our dentist. The first step is to talk openly with our dentist at Forest Dental about your anxiety. They will be understanding and want to help you feel comfortable during your visit.
- Bring a friend or loved one along for support. Having someone with you during your appointment can help ease any anxiety you may feel.
- Distract yourself during treatment. If sitting through a procedure seems unbearable, try focusing on something else – like watching TV or listening to music.
- Take deep breaths and relax your muscles. When you’re feeling anxious, deep breaths can help calm and relax you. tense muscles can also lead to pain during treatment – so relaxing them can make the experience more comfortable overall.
- Use numbing agents. At Forest Dental we use twilight sedation to limit the subjective experience by reducing awareness and eliminating pain. Local anesthetic can also be used to numb the area around your teeth so you won’t feel any discomfort during treatment.
With these tips, you can overcome your dental anxiety and get the treatment you need. So don’t let fear stand in the way of your oral health – take action and get the care you need today.
With these tips in mind, you can overcome your dental anxiety and get the care you need. So don’t let fear hold you back – talk to our dentist today about ways.