Oral problem is common in both children and adults. However, some people are having a hard time going to a dentist because of fear. Hence, it is a serious problem that should not be taken lightly. Some may become very nervous that they want to avoid going to a dental clinic. Later, they will arrive inside the clinic with more serious dental issues. As a result, they may need to visit the dentists more to solve the problem. Therefore, people with dental anxiety must face their fear as soon as possible.
Accruing to a Washington Post, almost 10% of the total number of people ate going through a dental phobia. It is good to know that there are ways on how you can overcome fear and get back to normal.
Before you try to solve your problem, it is important to become aware of what may happen if you develop a fear.
1. Embarrassment
Some people with this fear do not feel comfortable opening their mouths. Also, they do not like the idea of someone seeing what is inside their mouth. However, some reasons come from bad experiences in their past dentist’s visit. For instance, they feel serious pain or feel like they are trapped in the dental chair.
2. Low Self Esteem
Moreover, people with this problem going to dentists. Hence, most of them do not visit their dentists for years. As a result, they will experience dental issues. According to some studies, people with this fear are less likely to smile around people. It means that some may also suffer from a lack of confidence to face others.
3. Coping Activities
Having a phobia is not the end, as there are ways to get away from it. Hence, it is good to know more about what makes you afraid of going to a dentist. By knowing the main reasons, you can think of ways on how you can overcome them. Also, accepting that you are suffering from dental anxiety is the first step you must take to better yourself.
4. Managing your Fear
Let your dentist know about it. Also, it is good to tell them your signs and what can start your attack. After knowing your case, the dentist will make some changes to your treatment to feel comfortable. Also, dentists know how to deal with patients with this kind of fear.
5. Coping Exercises
Furthermore, there are effective activities that can help you get better and avoid having attacks.
- Breathing exercises
- Meditation
- Relaxation activities
- Guided imagination
- Hypnosis
Mostly, people who have a phobia ask for help from a therapist. It is especially true for those with serious fear.
6. Use of Happy Gas
Some dentists may use laughing gas to help the patient become more relax and calm during a procedure. Therefore, one should wear a mask and breathe in the gas. Afterward, the patient will feel the effect after a few minutes. Also, it goes away quickly after using it. Hence, a person is still awake, can talk, and hear the dentist’s voice. However, the patient may not remember everything.
7. Oral Tablet
Some doctors may give you an oral drug that can take away your dental anxiety. Therefore, one can take an hour before the dental visit. However, one should not take it alone without any prescription from a doctor. Also, please take note that you cannot drive after taking it.
8. Sedation
It will help the patient to become light sleep. However, they can still talk and hear doctors. Also, it is only given by a trained doctor inside a clinic or hospital. A patient who undergoes this procedure is not allowed to drive after.
9. Schedule an Initial Visit
People with dental phobia can try to set up an appointment with a dentist without any procedure. Hence, it is the right time to talk to your dentist and explain your condition. Visiting a dentist clinic and talking about your fear is one way to overcome it.
Dentists know how to handle patients with fears. Also, they will allow you to bring anything that will make you feel comfortable inside the clinic. Remember, it is possible to get away from any fear if you are eager to get better.
