With more than 80% of Australian suffering from certain levels of dental discomfort, you should know that you are not alone for dental anxiety Melbourne and expert dentists have helped thousands of people overcome their fears with various techniques. It is a challenge dentist gladly accept, and they are dedicated to changing our patients’ perceptions of what it means to go to the dentist.
How Dental Anxiety Affects Your Health
What do you do when something scares you? Avoid it at any cost! This is especially true for people with dental anxiety Melbourne. An estimated 9 to 15% of Americans avoid seeing a dentist altogether because of anxiety or fear (that’s 30 to 40 million people!).
Visiting a dentist, getting preventive care and solving problems are important for your teeth and overall health. Your dental anxiety Melbourne can lead to negative consequences such as preventing you from going to the dentist or receiving the recommended treatment, such as:
- Discoloured teeth
- Cracked, cracked and broken teeth
- Gum disease
- Gum depression
- Cavities and tooth decay
- Pain in the mouth
- Tooth loss
Not to mention all the symptoms and risk factors for various dental problems (such as TMJ, sleep apnoea and even oral cancer) that are not diagnosed or treated. Going to the dentist is only for your benefit. It is important to keep this fact in mind for your journey to overcome your dental anxiety Melbourne.
Before you get over your dental anxiety Melbourne, you need to acknowledge and understand why it is in the first place. After a few reflections, you may find that there is only one thing to blame or a combination of factors.
The good news is that there is much better. The trick is to find and work with an honest and trustworthy dentist who treats you with respect and compassion. We’ll start with non-aggressive, simple appointments so you can build a relationship based on trust and respect for your feelings.
Tips to Overcome Your Dental Anxiety
Now that you have identified the root of your dental anxiety Melbourne, it is time to take action to eliminate them. Here are some tips to help you do just that.
1. Find the right dentist
The right dentist can make all the difference. You will feel more comfortable and confident about the care you are receiving. Find a Dentist Who Offers,
- Friendly, caring staff
- Great reviews from current patients
- Simple answers to all your questions
- Comfortable and cosy office environment
- Personal and high-tech dental care and treatment
2. Use relaxation techniques and medications
Before your appointment, take some time to come to the right mindset. Many people find it helpful to have cramps, meditation, or deep controlled breathing. If you suffer from extreme anxiety, you can call your dentist and ask what kind of sedatives are right to help you relax more.
The dentist may decide to use nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and/or sedatives to help reduce your anxiety. You can discuss these possibilities in your consultation and come up with a customized diet to meet your specific needs. These medications are extremely safe and effective for managing anxiety.
3. Bring a friend
Ask a friend or family member to join you during your visit. Whether the person wants to wait with you in the lobby or in the room during your appointment, having a support person nearby can help you feel safer and more relaxed.
4. Arrive early
Haste to get to your appointment on time can cost your work. Don’t put undue stress on the experience. Plan to arrive extra early to give yourself enough time to slow it down.
If that helps, arrive early to enjoy a few extra minutes in the lobby, talk to the front desk staff, ask questions or just relax.
5. Tell your dentist!
While it is unfortunate that dental anxiety is so common, it means that your dentist has a lot of experience helping people like you. Don’t suppress your fears – be sure to tell your dentist and dental team that you feel nervous.
Your dentist will ask for your personal care and special attention to help you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
6. Ask too many questions
During your appointment, be sure to mention any concerns, questions or concerns. Your dental team is there to help. Want to know about a specific method or treatment? To ask! Are you starting to get anxious and need a few moments before continuing treatment? Tell your dentist.
Final thoughts
A good team of dentists will gladly accept your requests, explain how the sensation can be and make sure you are comfortable all the time. If you suffer from dental problems, dentists are here to help you. Your appointment will suit your needs, ensuring that you feel comfortable and relaxed throughout the appointment. Along the way you will be informed and educated and you will have enough time to ask questions and get the answers you need to feel confident.
