People have different reasons for fearing a trip to the dentist. Usually that fear stems from some event that happened at a younger age when visiting the dentist. It could just be a fear of needles that keeps you away, as getting a shot in the mouth can sting, and you may remember it being far worse than it actually was.
It could be that when you got a tooth pulled it hurt, or maybe you got a dry socket and the pain from that is some serious pain, so now you are afraid that will happen again because you believe you followed all the rules your dentist gave you to avoid such a problem.
Visit The Office Ahead Of Time
One of the things that you can do, especially if it has been a long time since you’ve gone to the dentist at all, is take a tour, and learn about the instruments. If you’ve avoided the dentist for decades, you may be surprised to see some changes in the dental office. You’ll also see some stuff that looks very familiar.
By visiting and touring, and talking with your dental professional, you can learn about the ways that they can make dental work a less painful process.
Learn Why Dental Care Is So Important
Learning why dental care is so very important could be one of the best ways to work to get over your fears. Your dental health is directly tied to the rest of your internal health, including that of your heart. Dental problems, like gum disease and cavities, can lead to heart disease, which can lead to an early death. Even pregnant mothers risk harming their unborn babies by not taking care of their teeth.
Try Meditation
Meditating is a great way to relax and calm your nerves. Try finding a guided meditation online that will help with relaxation and fear, or one specifically for dental work. You may also consider hypnosis, which could help with relaxation and dealing with past fears.
You can meditate at home to help prepare just for the drive to the dentist’s office, and you can take some sort of recording, or even just have a chant meditation that you use to help you stay focused and calm once you’re in the waiting room or the chair.
Let Your Dentist Know
It is also extremely important to tell your doctor about any fears that you have to do with dental work. They have have some suggestions of their own, and may be willing to go slower with you knowing that you have a fear of dental work, or needles.
Most of the time your dentist will be happy to help you out and work with you to deal with your fears.