Dental & Mouth Concerns
If you dread going to the dentist, ask about anxiety-reducing techniques you can use to help stay calm and relaxed. Some effective strategies follow.
* Tell your dentist how you feel. Some dentists are trained in helping anxious patients overcome fear of dental procedures.
* Ask if you can listen to soothing music or relaxation CDs played on a stereo headset. Ask if the dentist offers a hand-held device that allows you to press a button to stop the dentist’s drill.
* If your dentist is skilled at hypnosis, consider being hypnotized.
* If your anxiety is more than you can handle, see a psychotherapist who specializes in treating dental anxiety and other phobias.
Have a routine cleaning and checkup every six months. Preventive care will minimize the need for more painful and lengthy treatment.
© American Institute for Preventive Medicine