If you had a bad experience with the dentist, the last thing you want is to go in again. But caring for your teeth is essential, especially as you get older.
As we age, we’re more prone to periodontal disease and other dental concerns. Therefore, it’s imperative to have your teeth checked and get gum health treatment approximately every six months. That way, a dentist can ensure you maintain your pearly whites.
Here are a few things to try to combat your fear of going to the dentist. Before you know it, visiting the dentist’s office will be like taking a walk in the park!
1. Find a Dentist You Trust
You may have issues visiting the dentist because you haven’t found the one you trust. It’s not easy having a dentist poke around in your mouth. So, to ensure you have a good experience, make an appointment with a reputable dentist’s office.
You can find a dentist you trust through word of mouth or by looking at reviews. After having a shortlist, pick one to make an appointment at.
To test the waters, go for a routine exam. You can tell about a dentist’s office by how they greet you. And, of course, the person who cleans your teeth will also reveal a lot about the practice.
Once you find a dentist’s office you feel comfortable with, your fear should lessen.
2. Tell Them You’re Nervous
If you had a bad experience, there’s no harm in telling them about what happened in the past. A new dentist’s office wants to make a good impression on new patients. So it’s likely they’ll appreciate your honesty.
So, if you have sensitive teeth, let them know. And if you were in a lot of pain while getting a tooth pulled, tell them about your experience. It could be the person you went to before didn’t do everything correctly. The new office can clear up any questions and put your mind at ease.
You can eliminate your anxiety right from the get-go by not being afraid to be open and honest.
3. Look at Online Reviews
Online reviews will tell you a lot about a dental office. Patients are generally honest online, and you can read about various experiences. Although, don’t take negative reviews as gospel truth. Not everything a person says is always truthful!
If a review rubs you the wrong way, see if the office responded to the negative comment. Remember, there are two sides to every story! The dentist may have had a valid reason for behaving the way they did.
If you find an office you like but have doubts, call the office up and tell them of your concerns. They can clear up any questions or doubt you may have ahead of time.
Based on others’ reviews, you can rest easy knowing that your experience will be good.
4. Care for Your Teeth for an Easier Experience
If you don’t care for your teeth, it’s likely your experience at the dentist may not be an enjoyable one. For example, if you overeat sugar and have to get a filling, it’s no wonder you don’t want to go!
Finding an excellent dentist is one thing, but you still should care for your mouth.
A few ways to make your dental care a priority are by:
- Brushing your teeth morning and night
- Using floss and mouthwash daily
- Cutting back on your sugar intake
- Preventing wear on your teeth by getting a custom nightguard
- Avoid chewing on foods like corn nuts and ice
By focusing on your oral health, your experience with a dentist will be a positive one.
5. Treat Your Anxiety
Sometimes it’s challenging to make your anxiety disappear, especially if you have an anxiety disorder. You may have no control over how you feel.
Consider other solutions if you have difficulty mustering enough strength to go to the dentist. Taking anti-anxiety medication is one option. Taking CBD gummies may also be effective if you prefer a more natural route.
Practicing specific breathing techniques is another way to treat your anxiety.
Discuss your options with a mental health professional. They can offer suggestions on how to cope with your anxiety.
Conclusion
Going to the dentist can be a positive experience. Even though you may feel nervous, the right dentist will put your mind at ease. For the sake of your oral health, you need to make time to get a checkup. By being proactive and facing your fears, you’ll prevent oral health issues down the road.
