Its okay to feel scared.

We get it – the mere thought of a dental visit might make your heart race a little faster. But let's hit pause on the worry and switch gears. You started your journey and that’s to be commended! If you’re here for yourself, or to look for advice about how to help a child or loved one, you’ve come to the right place. Its important to be encouraging and supportive, for you or your loved one. Imagine that you are responsible for someone just like you and try to help them through this challenge.

You’ve got to praise a strong start:

Visualise this: You, confidently strolling into the dentists office, high-fiving the receptionist, getting the checkup and taking charge of whatever the dentist has for you, then leaving with a grin that can light up a room. Sounds perfect, right? Well, it's totally achievable. Let's explore how we can help you navigate your dental fears and emerge with a victorious smile.

Facing the Fear Head-On:

Dental anxiety is more common than you think, and it's okay to feel a little uneasy. The first step to conquering this fear is acknowledging it. You have done this by reading this article. Reach out to your dental provider, share your concerns, and let them guide you through the process. Trust us; they've seen it all, and they're there to help, not judge.

Empower yourself with the knowledge that, despite the nerves, you can take control and make choices that benefit your health. Avoiding the dentist due to fear often makes the situation worse. The suspense and worry feed into the anxiety, making the entire process seem scarier than it actually is.

High yield strategies for tackling your dental phobia

Communication is Key (NHS):

Discuss your fears openly with your dentist. They are trained to handle nervous patients and can tailor their approach to make you more comfortable, and they will help more if you let them know.

Establish a nonverbal, calm signal with your dentist to indicate when you need a break during a procedure. Even just knowing you have a way out can help allay fears.

1.      Gradual Exposure (Healthline):

Gradually expose yourself or your child/loved one to the dental environment. Start with short, non-invasive visits to build familiarity and trust with the dental office and explain what you’re doing to those around you to build a network of support.

2.      Regular Dental Check-ups (NHS):

Attend regular check-ups, even if you don't currently have known dental issues. This helps in early detection and prevention, reducing the likelihood of more extensive and anxiety-inducing procedures.

3.      Education and Information (NHS, Healthline):

Learn about the procedures you're anxious about before hand. Understanding the process can demystify it and reduce fear. Ask your dentist to explain each step before and during the procedure. Read some selected blog posts.

4.      Relaxation Techniques (Patient.co.uk):

Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or visualization to help calm your nerves before and during the appointment. If done before, it will be easier to do when the pressure is on more. Box breathing especially can help tap into your parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest rather than fight or flight) to relax.

5.      Distraction (NHS, Healthline):

Bring headphones and listen to music or an audiobook during the procedure to divert your attention. Focus on deep breathing or mindfulness to stay present and manage anxiety. Hypnosis has some evidence it can help, if self-directed mindfulness alone is ineffective.

6.      Choose a Dentist You Trust (Dentistry.com, Toothpik, Denplan, NHS):

Research and choose a dentist with positive reviews, and don't hesitate to seek recommendations from friends or family.

7.      Build a Support System (Patient.co.uk):

Bring a friend or family member to the appointment for emotional support. Be there for a loved on in need.

8.      Positive Reinforcement (Dentistry.com):

Reward yourself after a dental visit. Whether it's a treat, a relaxing activity, or simply acknowledging your courage, positive reinforcement can make future visits less daunting. Just perhaps forgo the full fat Coke and your teeth will thank you.

9.      Consider Sedation Options (NHS):

This is not for everyone as the above options are much quicker and easier for everyone involved. You could discuss sedation options with your dentist if anxiety is severe. Sedation can range from mild analgesia to general anaesthesia. Non prescription painkillers, taken before hand, can help allay fears of pain (avoiding ibuprofen or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatories which can worsen bleeding and healing). Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is sometimes provided after discussion about medical risks. Some dentists offer oral tablets like temazepam, after discussion or failure of above techniques. IV Conscious sedation and general anaesthesia is possible depending on the procedure and your level of anxiety. Conscious sedation is done in a more specialised facility with help from a separate seditionist or anaesthetist. General anaesthesia is done in hospitals for more invasive procedures. When enquiring ask about sedation options if the above strategies still have their challenges.

Taking Charge of Your Oral Health:

Seeking help is a commendable act. Pat yourself on the back for taking charge of your health. Your dentist is your ally in this journey, and by communicating openly about your fears, you're paving the way for a smoother dental experience.

Financial concerns shouldn’t have to stand in the way of your well-being. Regular dental check-ups can often save money long term by preventing more significant issues. If cost is a worry, explore dental insurance plans like Denplan, or check if your employer is considering offering medical or dental coverage.

Empowering You to Take Action:

Now, let's wrap this up on a positive note. You're strong, you're resilient, and you're ready to conquer your dental fears. Remember, your smile is worth it! Imagine your confidence filling the room when you flash your pearly whites to everyone. Embrace the courage within you, reach out to your dental provider, and let the journey to a fear-free smile begin.

In the grand scheme of things, those dental visits are just blips on the timeline of your life. So, take a deep breath, smile at the possibilities, and make that call. Your future self will thank you for it – with a bright, anxiety-free smile!