Yearly dental exams are vital parts of good oral health. During these important checkups, a dentist will be able to diagnose problems with a patient’s teeth or gums before these issues progress into something worse. While everyone should visit a local clinic that offers Family Dentistry in Oklahoma City OK, many people put off these appointments due to anxiety and nerves. There are several ways to handle a phobia of the dentist no matter the level of fear the patient may be experiencing.
Patient Education
Many fears are based on the unknown. People who don’t know what to expect at the dentist typically have higher levels of anxiety than those who have more experience. One of the best ways to overcome this type of fear is by seeking information. The internet is a great source of information. Many dental websites have comprehensive information about the different procedures they offer. Browse the website to see some examples of what to expect during common dental treatments. By educating themselves, patients feel less vulnerable at their appointments. Knowledge gives the patient more power when it comes to preparing for their next dental exam.
Calming the Mind
The mind is a powerful thing and, in certain situations, it can also become a dangerous thing. Patients often find their mind in overdrive before a dental appointment. They may even imagine worst-case scenarios. Most of the things people worry about never happen. It’s important for fearful patients to learn how to calm their minds before a visit to the dentist. Meditation is one way to do this. The goal of meditation is to slow thought processes in the brain. Patients should meditate both in the days leading up to the appointment and during the actual exam. This will help to slow their heart rate and lower their blood pressure. When the natural fight or flight response is controlled, patients will feel more at ease during their dental examination.
Visiting a clinic that offers Family Dentistry Oklahoma City OK is the best way to prevent and treat oral problems, but dental fears are still very common. Those who experience severe anxiety about visiting their local dentist should find alternative ways to reduce their fears. Both patient education and meditation are proven methods for reducing nervousness before a dental appointment. Contact Grady L. Lembke, DDS.
