Between 15% and 20% of Americans suffer from dental anxiety and avoid the dentist as a result. Whether they have dental anxiety because of a bad past experience at the dentist or suffer from generalized anxiety, it’s a serious issue that can be challenging to get past. Here, we’ll talk about some helpful ways to overcome dental anxiety so you don’t have to worry every time it’s time for you to visit Helotes Family Dentistry.
- Bring a Loved One
- Try Relaxation Techniques
- Distract Yourself
- Discuss Your Dental Anxiety with Our Dentists
- Confide in a Mental Health Care Provider
Visit our office with someone you know and trust to help calm your nerves. A familiar face will put your mind at ease and make you feel safe in the waiting room and while receiving treatment.
Relaxation techniques, such as controlled breathing (taking a breath, holding it in, and letting it out slowly), can help relax your muscles and your mind. Additionally, try progressive muscle relaxation, which is briefly tensing your muscles and then releasing them.
Once you’re in the dental chair, listen to music, snuggle up with our complimentary pillows and blankets, or watch Netflix on our overhead TVs. By distracting yourself from what’s happening in your mouth, you’ll be able to get through the appointment much more easily.
Our team understands that many patients suffer from dental anxiety. We want to do everything we can to ensure you have the best experience you can while at Helotes Family Dentistry! If you’re nervous about potential pain associated with a procedure, let our dentists know so they can talk you through the process and discuss options to make you more comfortable. We may suggest sedation dentistry, which will allow you to remain relaxed while undergoing treatment. Our office offers nitrous oxide (aka laughing gas), oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation.
If you’ve tried everything and just haven’t been able to overcome your dental anxiety, find a mental health care provider who can work with you to figure out how you can manage or overcome it.
Your Comfort Is Our Priority!
Professional oral care is vital to your health. We will do all we can to help you overcome your dental anxiety so you can get the treatment you need. Contact our friendly team to schedule your appointment at Helotes Family Dentistry today.
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