We all have a phobia of something, maybe it’s the dark or heights, or even clowns! For some people it’s the dentist, it’s extremely common and normally occurs from a bad experience in the past.
But putting off going to the dentist can lead to bigger health problems throughout the body, so keeping a good level of oral hygiene can keep you fit and healthy overall.
If you’re a nervous patient, here’s some tips that might make you feel a little bit more relaxed.
Listen to music or put on relaxing scents
Having something to focus on may help distract your mind, ask your dentist to put the radio on or even bring earphones and listen to a podcast or music from your phone. If you like smelling a nice fragrance and you think that would help you relax, bring a candle or essential oils with you, your dentist should always be accommodating and help you feel at ease.
Book an early appointment
Get your appointment out the way, book a morning appointment so that your anxiety isn’t building throughout the day, this can affect you all day and the other tasks you are doing, it may also lead to you cancelling the appointment. Or maybe you want an appointment after work in the evening so that you aren’t worried about taking time off or having to rush back to work and taking time off. If you are given appointment options over the next few days, choose the soonest one and get it out the way.
Remember, you aren’t the only one!
There are many people in the UK and the world who haven’t been to see the dentist in years because they are nervous or fearful, so don’t feel embarrassed! We will never judge you on this and we always want you to have a positive experience at Ewan Bramley, we will do all we can to ensure that happens!
Be proud of yourself
If you suffer from anxiety or have a dental phobia, then be proud of yourself for booking an appointment and turning up. Just like any other phobia or stressful situation, getting through it is an achievement and going to the dentist shouldn’t be any different.
Your first appointment will just be a check-up or consultation
If you haven’t been to a dentist in a while, then your first appointment back will just be a check-up, a chance for our dentists to see how your teeth and gums are and what treatment options you may need. It’s a chance for you to ask us lots of questions and get a feel for the practice, it’s also a chance for you to get to know us. This should make you feel more at ease at future visits.
If you have a dental phobia and would like to come in for a check-up, give us a call or email and we can discuss everything with you prior to your appointment.
