Going to the dentist can be a very scary experience. Dental anxiety can affect people of all ages, but it’s important to manage your fears so you can get the dental care you need. The first step is to acknowledge and understand why you feel anxious about visiting the dentist. Dental anxiety can be caused by a fear of fillings, a traumatic dental experience in the past, or a fear that the dentist will neglect your concerns. Here are seven tips for minimising anxiety surrounding the dentist.
Communicate Your Fears
Confiding in your dentist can minimise the fears and anxiety you may have. In addition to minimising anxiety, sharing your fears with a dentist can also help to ensure effective communication. Get your dentist in Bundoora to explain the procedure before it begins and ask them to keep you informed throughout, as staying aware and educated will stop your mind from thinking that something bad will happen. Your dentist will be more than happy to listen to your worries and share techniques on how to minimise your anxiety levels.
Listen to Music
Bringing a pair of headphones into the dental clinic will allow you to zone out from what’s happening. A slow tempo song can help to relax your muscles and quiet your mind, with the soothing sounds capable of having a profound effect on your body. If listening to music doesn’t help, try downloading a podcast instead. This way, your attention will be diverted to what the presenters are speaking about rather than what the dentist in Bundoora is working on.
Bring a Family or Friend Along
Taking a family member or a friend with you to your dentist in Bundoora will help reduce your anxiety levels. Get them to distract you by having a conversation before the check-up that doesn’t relate to the dentist. Knowing that a trusted person is there for moral support goes a long way to decrease anxiety.
Focus on Breathing Properly
Practicing breathing exercises will help lower the stress in your body and reduce tension levels. This can also lower your heart rate, improve blood pressure and boost circulation. Try breathing rhythmically by inhaling for four seconds and exhaling for another four seconds.
Watch What You Eat and Drink
Your diet can have a large impact on anxiety levels, which means you can benefit from avoiding certain foods and drinks before your appointment. Caffeine is known as a stimulant drug that can cause people to feel nervous, light headed and nauseous, so avoiding coffee and soft drinks containing caffeine is wise before visiting your dentist in Bundoora. Other foods that can exacerbate anxiety symptoms include gluten, dairy and artificial sugars.
Pick Appointment Times that are Convenient
Making dental appointments for times that are convenient and less stressful for you can help to decrease your anxiety. Select times when you’re less likely to be rushed or feel under pressure. This may mean visiting a dentist in Bundoora on the weekend or after hours. Furthermore, keep your appointments to the minimum time and avoid having multiple procedures done in one visit.