Did you know that up to 24 percent of the population has dental anxiety or phobia (according to a contributor to
Harvard Health)? The line between normal anxiety and phobia can be blurred, but if you have trouble sleeping before a dental appointment or get increasingly nervous as you wait for your appointment, you may need added assistance to get over these feelings. Below are a few options to help you manage, cope and face your fear of the dentist.
Talk to Your Dentist About Medications to Reduce Anxiety. Many people who fear the dentist have low pain thresholds. Your dentist has many options to help you manage your pain and anxiety. Analgesics that prevent pain can be used during many procedures. You may want to have an anti-anxiety agent that puts you into a more relaxed state. You can still respond to speech and touch. General anesthesia is also available for severe procedures. But your dentist doesn’t know that you need help unless you talk to him or her.
See a Mental Health Professional When your fear is extreme and keeps you from even making an appointment, you may need professional help to get you through your symptoms.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is very beneficial in overcoming phobias. Identifying what scares you and why can go a long way in reducing the fear.
According to
WebMD, “Modern dentistry is virtually painless.” Think of your dentist as your friend. A friend who wants to help you have a bright and pain-free smile. You don’t have to live with fear through a dental appointment or avoid the dentist at the risk of your oral health. You have options and a great dentist will be understanding, patient and helpful. Take control of your anxiety and start smiling!