Are you afraid of going to the dentist? Has it been over a few years since your last dental check-up? You’re not alone. In fact, according to the NHMRC (National Health and Medical Research Council), around one Australian adult out of every seven are afraid of going to the dentist.
So, what steps can you take so you can visit a dental clinic and ensure your teeth get the treatment and care that they need?
First, understand why you have anxiety
There are many reasons for having a phobia of going to the dentist. It can be due to procrastination as a result of requiring dental work, being afraid of needles or of the pain it may bring. It may be also due to past experiences such as having a bad visit at the dentist when you were younger. Some dental phobias also stem from the fear of the lack of control.
Have an open discussion
Having an open discussion about your anxiety can work wonders. Talking to people you trust such as close friends, family members or even support groups that address DFA (Dental Fear and Anxiety)will help immensely. It will create a safe place where you can openly discuss your phobia and receive helpful advice or simply a supportive shoulder to lean on who will listen to you. By openly discussing your fear, it will bring you one step closer to overcoming your dental phobia.
Getting additional help if needed
If you find that you are unable to have an open discussion or still feel the grip of your phobia having a hold over you, then getting additional help from a professional such as psychologist will do wonders. Your anxiety could be affecting you on a deeper level such as a phobia of waiting rooms or getting triggered by certain dental clinic smells like acrylic.
Let your dentist know
Once you are feeling up to it, talking to your dentist about your anxiety in a consultation can be the linchpin that puts you at ease. Dentists have dealt with a wide variety of patients. This means they will understand how you are feeling and would have most likely dealt with similar patients in the past. They can explain each aspect relating to your reason for visiting and make you feel comfortable. Remember that if the dentist does not know about your phobia or anxiety issues, it can make it more difficult.
Book an appointment
The last stage is to book an appointment with the dentist and overcome the final hurdle –the reason you are going to the dentist. If dental surgery is required, the dentist can explain to you what is involved and even show you the equipment to make you more relaxed. Always remember that dental anxiety is a common issue and that you are not alone.
When you’re ready to take that final step, book an appointment with our friendly . You can do so by calling (03) 9878 9227 or bwebsite.
