subject: Conquering Your Fear Of The Dentist [print this page] Most people that fear trips to the dentist and all that it entails have had negative encounters in the past with inexperienced and uncaring dentists. Others have never experienced a bad dental trip, but have heard about painful experiences from friends and family. As a result, their fear of their own dentist keeps them from receiving the best care possible.
But when the key to good dental health is prevention, people who suffer from dental anxiety often fail to visit the dentist for regular cleanings and check ups. Fortunately, many dentists are aware of this all too common fear and offer special techniques to make their patients feel as comfortable as possible during routine visits and dental procedures.
Building A Healthy Relationship With Your Dentist
First things first if you want to minimize pain and discomfort associated with trips to the dentist. Building trust with your dentist is often the best method for alleviating the anxiety you feel about oral health care. An experienced dentist will establish a healthy relationship with you from the very beginning, and he'll thoroughly explain procedures before starting any dental work.
When dentists are aware of the anxiety and fear that their patients have, they can modify their procedures to make it as comfortable and pain free as possible. Be open and honest with your dentist about any uneasiness you have, and allow him to answer questions. His patience and honesty will put you at ease naturally, going a long way toward reducing the pain of certain dental procedures. Can't seem to establish trust with your dentist? Consider finding a new one.
Advanced Treatment For Your Dental Anxiety
For major surgeries or extreme fear, a dentist can administer topical drugs, such as Novocain to reduce the anxiety and pain. More modern advances in dentistry, such as hypnotic techniques, nerve blocks or laser treatment may also be viable options for eliminating stress and discomfort. An experienced dentist will always allow the anesthesia and medications to take full effect before starting any procedure. And if you still feel pain during the dental work, you should speak up and tell him. If he doesn't know it's hurting, he won't be able to administer additional pain relief.
Sedation dentistry may also be an option for long, complex procedures. Once sedated, you will essentially be asleep for the entire surgery, meaning you won't feel any pain or fear. Ask your dentist what treatments he offers for pain and dental anxiety.
Don't let your fear of the dentist jeopardize your oral health any longer. Speak with your dentist about your fears and anxieties. Chances are many other patients have come to him with the same concerns, and he'll be able to talk to you about overcoming your apprehension. And if necessary, you both can work out a treatment plan for reducing the fear you experience during procedures with anesthesias and other medications. Once you trust your dentist and feel comfortable during regular visits, you'll be able to optimize your dental health both now and in the future.
