subject: Tips On Nixing Your Anxiety At The Dentist [print this page] Do you hate going to the dentist? Do the words "open wide" make your gums shiver? If you are one of the millions of Americans who cringe at the sound of an electric toothbrush, these anxiety-busting tricks are for you.
1. Bring a "witness."
For many people, the vulnerability and lack of control is the most terrifying part of the visit. Having someone with an arsenal of sharp objects at their disposal while you lie there with your sensitive tissue exposed would make anyone squeamish. And who could forget the story about the vengeful Polish dentist who extracted every last tooth from her ex-boyfriend's mouth when he came in for an appointment days after dumping her for another woman.
No matter where your trust issues originate, they can be soothed with the help of a friend or family member. Just let someone you trust know when you are going in for an appointment and ask them if they would come with you and stand in the room to make sure nothing happens. Your dentist has probably seen many uneasy patients and should have no problem with the extra company.
It is also important to remember that dentists are professionals who will face extreme penalties and likely be stripped of their license if they betray your trust and intentionally inflict harm. (The widely reported article about the Polish woman turned out, of course, to be a hoax.)
2. Choose one who makes you feel comfortable.
While most of us have to adhere to the list of doctors our insurance plan offers, we still have at least a few from which to choose. When you schedule a check-up, explain your anxiety to the dentist and his or her assistants so they can talk with you beforehand and put you at ease. If he or she does not want to take the time to give you the special attention you need, you may want to move on to another available practice. Most of them will be more than willing to sit down and have a chat. Getting a feel for him or her as just another person may reduce the villainous image you hold in your mind.
You may even want to look into seeing a dental professional that specializes in children or family needs. Sure, stepping into an office full of colorful toys and stuffed animals may make you feel silly, but children's doctors are used to handling the most squeamish, difficult patients of all kids. They will be patient with you and probably have a more delicate touch when handling your teeth. Who knows? You may even get a toy out of the deal.
3. Get sedated.
It is never okay to administer yourself medication of any kind when not prescribed to you by a doctor. However, for patients with extreme anxiety, there may be pharmaceutical help. A practice that is growing in popularity is the administration of anxiety pills or nitrous oxide, commonly known as "laughing gas," before anyone lays a hand on your teeth. The only downside is that the chemical soothers will cost you extra.
