Lots of people don’t like going to the dentist. Depending on the study you look at, up to 58% of the population report some level of anxiety about going to the dentist.
So it’s safe to say that you’re not alone if you feel anxious about going to the dentist, even for a routine teeth cleaning and oral exam. But what can you do about it, and how can you feel more safe and comfortable while you get the dental care you need? Great question! Here are some top tips and advice from Oak Creek Dental Care.
First, it’s important to find a kind, caring, and experienced dentist who will listen to you, and take steps to make you feel more comfortable at their office. At Oak Creek Dental Care, Dr. Saleki makes it his goal to provide gentle, patient-focused care.
You should also meet with your dentist before your first appointment to discuss what makes you feel nervous, and come up with ways to reduce your anxiety. For example, if you don’t like the sound of dental drills, Dr. Saleki may suggest that you listen to music or a podcast while you get a dental filling at Oak Creek Dental Care.
This is a simple tip, but it really works. One of the best things you can do to steady yourself and calm your mind is focus on your breathing. Breathe deeply and consistently throughout your appointment. Avoid shallow, short breaths.
Focusing on your breathing gives you something else to think about during your treatment, and taking deep, steady breaths has been proven to help reduce anxiety.
Your friend or family member may not always be able to enter your operating room with you, but they can stay with you and support you while you wait for your appointment, and provide moral support after your procedure is over.
Just knowing that someone who cares about you is waiting for you can be a big relief, and make it seem a lot less scary to get dental work done at Oak Creek Dental Care.
In addition, you will be required to bring someone with you if you choose oral conscious sedation or IV sedation, since you cannot safely drive yourself home after your treatment.
The last thing you want is to be short on time and have to rush around to make it to your dentist’s appointment, or to have to go back to work immediately after your procedure.
If possible, we recommend taking a half day or full day off of work or school so that you can have plenty of time to recover and relax after your appointment. We also offer limited Saturday hours at Oak Creek Dental Care, if that’s more convenient for you.
We offer a wide variety of sedation options at Oak Creek Dental Care, ranging from nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to pill-based deep sedation and IV sedation. If you’re really nervous about coming to the dentist, IV sedation may be a great option for you.
The team at Oak Creek Dental Care is always here to provide you with the gentle dental care you need in Oak Creek, Franklin, and South Milwaukee. Don’t put off the treatment you need because of dental anxiety. Give us a call at (414) 762-9010 or contact us online to schedule an appointment with Dr. Saleki today.
.png){kind=small}
.png){kind=logo}
