We’ve just started the new year, and with it, a list of good intentions. Among the good intentions we set at the beginning of this new chapter, we highlight improving our SMILE and stopping postponing that dentist visit that, out of FEAR, we keep putting off time and time again. <\/p>\n\n
And indeed, it’s true. A high percentage of people avoid visiting their dentist due to an unfounded fear, what we call “dental phobia,” which ends up taking its toll, at the very least, on our image. <\/p>\n\n
Today we’re going to give you a series of guidelines to follow to overcome that fear of going to your dentist appointment, allowing you to focus your full attention on what’s truly important: the health of your mouth.<\/p>\n\n
Before your first appointment with your dentist, it’s advisable to visit the facilities. Modern clinics create a calm and harmonious atmosphere that is very pleasant for patients. Aware of the anxiety that dental visits can cause for many people, the ambiance is enhanced with soft colors, lighting, music, and a comfortable waiting area. <\/p>\n\n
It’s best not to arrive before the scheduled time, as waiting generates anxiety and stress, thus increasing fear. Waiting leads to dwelling on what’s causing anxiety, amplified by factors like the sound of work tools or the smell of the space. <\/p>\n\n
This small detail prevents you from spending the day anticipating everything you imagine might happen in the “horror room.” If you can avoid creating these terrifying scenes in your mind, all the better. An early morning appointment will save you from experiencing those hours of anguish caused by your phobia. <\/p>\n\n
Discuss it with your dentist. Tell your problem and plan a review without further ado. <\/p>\n\n
During a consultation, you will create a climate of trust with the specialist who will treat your problem, which will significantly reduce your fear.<\/p>\n\n
It’s like climbing a staircase. One step at a time is less tiring than trying to climb three at a time. <\/p>\n\n
Exactly. It’s about finding that professional and caring person who will offer us a quality healthcare service, and what better than one that many people speak highly of; especially those who, like you, have been afraid of going to the dentist and have now overcome that fear. <\/p>\n\n
A book. Headphones. A magazine. A friend. Something to distract your fear from what feeds it. During the wait, you hear the sounds of medical equipment, even conversations that trigger your phobia and can cause stress. Don’t give your enemy even the slightest bit of attention! <\/p>\n\n
It will give you confidence to know that if you experience any discomfort during treatment, your dentist will understand with a simple signal. This could be raising a hand or your fingers. This will make you feel in control of the situation at all times. <\/p>\n\n
Sometimes the phobia can be stronger than everything else. If your phobia is severe, sedation may be an option. You can even request anesthesia; nowadays, there are painless treatments available. <\/p>\n\n
And if your phobia is needles, that’s no problem either; a cream is applied to the area where the anesthetic will be injected before the injection, numbing the area so you don’t feel a thing. And if your fear of needles is extreme, you can also request inhalation sedation. <\/p>\n\n
It’s all about discussing it beforehand with your specialist and weighing up the various possibilities until you find the one that makes you feel best.<\/p>\n\n
Repeatedly remind yourself of the benefits you’ll gain from your visit to the dentist. Visualize how you’ll feel once the treatment is complete. And focus on the countless people who undergo various dental treatments every day with extraordinary results. Becoming aware of the importance of your treatment and what it means for your health will help you break through the barrier and the wall of fear that’s preventing you from going to the dentist. <\/p>\n\n
If you have young children, take them to the dentist from a very early age, just like you take them to the pediatrician when they have a cough or fever. This will familiarize your child with dental professionals, and they will attend their appointments regularly without any anxiety or fear. <\/p>\n\n
On the other hand, avoid talking at home about your fear of going to the dentist (if you have it), because your child will hear it and internalize it as a negative experience, vicariously through you, that they will never want to experience. Avoid passing on your anxiety to your children. It’s a burden they will carry into adulthood. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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