Scared of Going to the Dentist? 5 Techniques to Help You Relax

Nervous about going to see your family dentist, even if it’s someone in Cincinnati you currently see? You’re not alone. Most Americans have some level of dental anxiety, causing some of them to procrastinate on preventive checkups and essential dental work.

That’s sad, perhaps even tragic, because not only do we miss seeing your smiling face, but regular dental visits are also essential to maintaining good dental health. That’s why our Cincinnati office continually strives to be proactive rather than reactive in supporting your oral care.

The good news is you don’t have to be afraid. Here are five tips to help you ease your fear and feel more relaxed and confident in the dental chair.

1. Tell Us You’re Afraid

Communication builds trust. Even when your mouth is wide open and full of dental instruments, we want you to let us know what worries you and when you feel uncomfortable or scared. That way, we can adjust our treatment to help you feel better.

2. Bring Some Music

Bring in your music, something that makes you feel more relaxed. Keep your phone close to you so you can control the volume as you prefer.  To help us communicate with you more effectively, consider using only one earbud, preferably in the ear that’s furthest away from the dentist. We may need to provide you with special instructions, such as opening wider, swallowing, or saying “You’re all done!”

If you don’t already have one, download an app that provides calming white noise and soundscapes to help you relax. You can listen to an ongoing stream of relaxing sounds, such as flowing rivers, rhythmic ocean waves, or crackling campfires. These apps are often designed to encourage sleep, but they also facilitate relaxation and reduce stress.

3. Practice Therapeutic Breathing

Breathing plays a crucial role in meditation because it calms our core. Physically, it increases oxygen flow to the bloodstream, promoting healing and reducing anxiety. Even if you don’t regularly meditate, engaging in mindful breathing can help you feel more at peace.

Count your breaths, in and out. You might even practice some light meditation techniques in the waiting room before you’re called for your appointment.

4. Try Progressive Muscle Relaxation

Muscle relaxation techniques before your appointment can have a calming effect and reduce dental anxiety. In particular, progressive muscle relaxation involves tensing different muscle groups in sequence, which can be done while lying down or sitting in a lounging chair. Before your dental visit, find a quiet place to sit or lie down. Start with one muscle group, such as your toes, and work your way through the rest of your body.

5. Tell Us When It Hurts

Your Blue Ash dentist or dental hygienist isn’t a mind reader. If it hurts, tell us. We can always adjust the amount of numbing agent. It just takes a little pinch, but the pain relief is well worth it. And yes, your jaw may be numb for a little longer following the procedure, but you’ll be much more comfortable in the long run.

Cincinnati Dental Care That Puts Your Comfort First

At Beckham Square Family Dental, gentle and compassionate dentistry is the foundation of our oral health mission. Whether it’s a professional cleaning or a cosmetic dental veneer or bonding application, we want your dental appointment to be an educational and positive experience. Before your next visit with us, please don’t hesitate to tell us how we can make your appointment less stressful and more comfortable.