The dentist can be a scary place for kids and adults. Nearly 8% of Americans avoid going to the dentist because of their fear. Nearly two thirds of those individuals have this avoidance because of a bad experience they may have had in the past at the dentist.
So, you aren’t alone in your fear of the dentist and we want to help you overcome this fear the best way we know how, by giving you tips and tricks you can do before and at your dentist appointment. Here are some of our suggestions:
• Go to the dentist with someone you trust and feel comfortable with, like a close friend or family member. Have them sit with you during the procedure to help take your mind off of what is actually going on.
• Have a distraction going on during the visit. Listen to your favorite music or find a dentist with a TV that you can watch during the procedure.
• Remember to take a deep breath and relax. You can also try a technique called progressive muscle relaxation, where you tense and relax different muscle groups in turn.
If you are struggling to go see any dentist, you may want to consider visiting a psychologist first. They can help you address your fear and overcome it over time. Don’t hesitate to call our office today at 619.470.2558 with any of your questions or fears about coming in. We want to make sure you feel right at home when you come in for your appointment.