Post Classifieds

How to Overcome Anxiety at the Dentist

By NAPS (North American Precis Syndicate)
on August 15, 2023

(NAPSI)—If you experience anxiety and stress while visiting your dentist, you’re not alone. For many people, the idea of going to the dentist stirs up anxiety; however, it’s so important to combat those thoughts to keep your smile strong and healthy. To help, here are four tips so you can remain calm while your teeth receive care:

 

 

Talk to your dentist—Be open about your anxieties and stress before the appointment so the dentist can ease your mind. If you want to know what’s happening during the appointment, they can explain the procedure to you. If you would rather not know, your dentist can tell you when to close your eyes or distract yourself. Work on a signal with your dentist—for instance, if you raise your hand during your appointment, it could mean you need a break, or something hurts. Don’t be afraid to communicate what you need for a successful trip to the dentist’s chair.

 

 

Use tools to distract yourselfIf the tools or sounds of the dental machines cause you anxiety, find ways to busy yourself. You can bring headphones to listen to your favorite music or podcast while you lounge in the dentist’s chair. Objects such as stress balls or fidget spinners are also a great way to keep busy. 

 

 

Practice mindfulnessTo keep your mind off your dentist’s appointment, you can practice mindfulness both before and during. Focus on breathing while you’re in the waiting room or in the dentist’s chair with slow, deep breaths. Relax all the muscles you can, one at a time, with a body scan. Start from your feet all the way up to your neck and shoulders while you’re reclined for your appointment. 

 

 

Bring a friendDo not feel embarrassed or shy to ask for support! If you have a trusted friend or family member who makes you feel safe, see if they can help you in facing your fear of the dentist. 

While these tips may not get rid of dental anxiety completely, they are a great place to start so any patient can conquer any dentist appointment. 

 

 

Learn More

 

 

For more information on your oral health, visit Delta Dental of Washington’s blog at www.deltadentalwa.com.

On the Net:North American Precis Syndicate, Inc.(NAPSI)

Get Top Stories Delivered Weekly

Recent thenewsargus News Articles

Discuss This Article

GET TOP STORIES DELIVERED WEEKLY

Class of 2019, what are your plans after graduation?

FOLLOW OUR NEWSPAPER

Log In

or Create an account

Employers & Housing Providers

Employers can list job opportunities for students

Post a Job

Housing Providers can list available housing

Post Housing

Log In

Forgot your password?

Your new password has been sent to your email!

Logout Successful!

Please Select Your College/University:

You just missed it! This listing has been filled.

Post your own housing listing on Uloop and have students reach out to you!

Upload An Image

Please select an image to upload
Note: must be in .png, .gif or .jpg format
OR
Provide URL where image can be downloaded
Note: must be in .png, .gif or .jpg format