Here are some ways to ease angst about the dentist’s office:
• Know if you’re an early bird or a late riser. Schedule your appointments during the time of day that’s best for you. “Come in the morning if you’re a morning person, or late in the afternoon if you’re an evening person.” You’ll be in a better mood and better frame of mind.
• Prepare the night before. “Get a good night’s sleep.” If you have trouble sleeping the night before a visit, calling your dentist’s office and asking if they can provide you with a sleep aid.
• Talk, lots. Make a list of what it is that bothers you about going to the dentist, whether it’s fear of painful procedures or lack of control over what’s going on, and talk your dental anxiety with your dentist. “The most important thing you can do is communicate with everyone, right from the beginning. A lot of people come in with anxiety and fears, and they’re embarrassed, but we do this all the time and we understand.” We also suggest developing signals, such as raising your hand, between you and your dentist, in the event that you do start to feel pain or discomfort.
• Distract yourself. Dentists offices are getting decidedly high-tech these days, providing patients with distractions while they’re in a chair. See if your office can provides movies or TV to shows to view for patients, which are especially helpful for lengthy procedures. If your dentist prefers a low-tech atmosphere, bring your own headphones and music. It will help drown out unpleasant sounds like drills, suction tubes, and anything else that can raise your blood pressure.
