How to Conquer Your Fear When Visiting a Dentist

The thought of visiting the dentist can, in some cases, cause anxiety. In turn, this fear can lead to avoiding or delaying dental visits that can further aggravate your dental issues or negatively impact your overall dental health. 

Here are some tips our team at Woodruff Family Dental in Jonesboro, AR, has put together to help you conquer your fear of visiting a dentist: 

• Find the Right Dentist

Finding the right dentist is perhaps the most important step. The right dentist will understand your concerns and fears and will find an efficient way to manage or work around them. 

• Talk to Your Dentist

Letting your dentist know from your first appointment that you have certain fears and concerns about dental visits will help. Ask your dentist to walk you through the entire process to make sure you are prepared to go through with it.

• Ask a Loved One to Accompany You 

Asking a loved one or a friend to accompany you will not only calm your nerves but also ensure you are in good company.

• Schedule an Early Morning Appointment

There are a couple of reasons to opt for an early morning appointment. Since the clinic will be less busy at this point, you feel more at ease. In addition, getting something you fear done first thing in the morning means you won't have to deal with wracking nerves all day. Limiting caffeine in the morning before the appointment can also help reduce your anxiety.

• Distract Yourself

Distract yourself so you do not overthink about your pending dental appointment. Listening to music, trying deep breathing exercises, or just talking to someone can help ease your anxiety.

• Ask for Sedation  

You can ensure your dental visit is pain-free and relaxing by asking your dentist to use sedation for your treatment. Your dentist can explain the various options and you can work together to find the best option for your needs. 

• Reward Yourself!

Once you have successfully finished your dental visit, you should reward yourself! Plan a fun activity after the dentist appointment, go on a shopping spree, or buy a book you’ve been meaning to read. 

You can conquer your fear of visiting a dentist by choosing the right dental clinic. At Woodruff Family Dental, we are here to listen to you and your concerns and change the way you think about dental visits. For appointments, call (870) 972-8190 or visit our clinic at 2800 Enterprise Cv, Jonesboro, AR 72401.