5 Tips for Overcoming Dental Anxiety

5 Tips for Overcoming Dental Anxiety

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Lots of people suffer from dental anxiety. It’s one of the most common phobias in the United States. Dental anxiety can make you want to put off or avoid dental visits. But, it’s important to get regular dental care to keep small problems from developing into serious ones.

At The Glen Dental in San Jose, CA, our experienced and compassionate care team gives caring treatment to patients with dental anxiety. We suggest you try these five tips to help you get the dental care you need.

1. Talk to your provider

When you meet us for the first time, let us know that you struggle with anxiety. If you let us know about any concerns you have, we can work with you to develop a treatment plan that takes your concerns into account. Furthermore, ask as many questions as you have. The more familiar you are with procedures you may be undergoing, the better you may feel about them.

2. Attend regularly

Even though anxiety may tempt you to skip appointments, getting regular care can lead to better outcomes overall. When your dental concerns are dealt with right away, you won’t develop serious problems that may require invasive or uncomfortable treatments. If you’re prone to anxiety, putting off treatment may only make it worse.

3. Use a distraction

When you have a dental treatment, use a distraction to keep your mind off the procedure. Listening to music or a podcast works well for many anxious patients. When your mind is occupied, your anxiety level may decrease.

4. Practice mindfulness

Mindfulness or meditation can have a calming, centering effect. Try focusing on your breathing when you feel dental anxiety rearing up. Mindfulness has demonstrated long-term positive effects for both mental and physical health.

5. Consider sedation dentistry

For patients with severe anxiety, sedation dentistry can help during treatments. At The Glen Dental, you can get the treatment you need while you sleep away. To see if sedation dentistry could be right for you, talk to a member of our care team.

If you struggle with dental anxiety, let our office know when you schedule your appointment, and we’ll put a note in your file. We can talk you through strategies that can allow you to get the dental care you need without the anxiety or discomfort. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone today.

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