Have you been avoiding the trip to the dentist because fear strikes you in the pit of your stomach?
You know you need to schedule the appointment but you keep putting it off because the fear is too real. The anxiety level can be sky-high, but by putting it off for years you can cause damage to your teeth which will require more procedures to be necessary which can further increase the anxiety. You’re not alone- many people suffer through fear of the unknown, but the truth is that while your fear is real, it can be managed by a few techniques that have brought a sigh of relief to dental patients around the country!
Music and Audiobooks
We all can be motivated, entertained, and soothed by music but most people do not think about the fact that they could be enjoying these benefits right in the dental chair! No matter if it is slow jams, pop, or even soft rock, odds are very good that you can temporarily transport yourself to the stage of your favorite artist while getting rid of that infected tooth of yours. Music can be particularly beneficial because different soundwaves can put the brain in different stages which can cause your brain to relax. Students have reported that they can save time by studying for exams by listening to audiobooks and class notes!
Visualization
If listening to the latest hit song on the radio doesn’t quite take the edge off, you might want to practice visualization techniques. Transport yourself to an island with crystal clear blue water and feel the warm sand beneath your toes, by closing your eyes and letting your imagination take over. Many people have reported losing track of time while doing this which can be particularly useful when you are in the chair. Allow yourself to get lost in your daydream and this can effectively cut down on the anxiety of your current situation. Since you can’t go anywhere anyway, you might as well create your paradise in your mind with great detail.
Talk it out
According to the American Dental Association talking about your dental fears before the procedure can help the staff at Scottsdale Family Smiles become aware of your anxiety and do everything possible to ensure a smooth experience. It will also help you feel better by expressing yourself to the people who can help you the most. Sometimes we feel too embarrassed to talk about dental fears and this is a big mistake.
You should not feel shame that you have anxiety about the visit and this is especially true if you have undergone past procedures that did not go as well as you had hoped at other dental offices. The good news is Dr. Fattah and the dental experts at Scottsdale Family Smiles are well aware of the dental fears that many of their patients have and their warm demeanor will help you feel at ease right away.
These simple steps can help you sleep soundly the night before your appointment and will allow you to go into your appointment with a new frame of mind and peace that your visit will be over sooner than you think.
If you are in the area of Scottsdale, Gainey Ranch, Mccormick Ranch, Kierland, and Paradise Valley and would like to experience world-class dentistry, schedule an appointment today at (480) 281-8974.
