Any anxiety or apprehension you associate with the dentist
may be keeping you from the dental treatment you need and deserve. Facing those
fears and going through with a dental procedure may seem daunting but you don't
need dive right into in. Here are some some ideas that may help make the trip
to the dentist more relaxing and pleasant.
Visit the dentist office beforehand to become more
comfortable with the people and the environment. While there, you can talk to
your dentist about your anxieties. Together, you can come up with the best
treatment plan that will put the least amount of stress on you.
Agree with your dentist on a stop signal. Find a way to
communicate to your dentist that you need a break in the middle of the
procedure. A breather is often a good idea when you start feeling too anxious.
Also, giving yourself an out will help you feel more in control of the
situation.
Set the appointment early in the day so you don't spend all
day worrying. After a good night's rest, head on over to the dentist office as
early as possible. Leaving the appointment for later in the day may make you
more anxious with the anticipation.
Feel free to bring along a book or some music, anything that
can distract you or help keep you calm. Feel free to bring along a person too!
Fear of the dentist is no laughing matter and you should allow yourself
anything that can help you cope with the situation.