It's estimated that as many as 75% of people experience some degree of fear when it comes to visiting the dentist office.
But it doesn't have to be that way. There are things to consider, and steps to take, to make your dentist visit as pain-free as possible.
- Find a Dentist You Can Trust
Your local family dentist may be who you feel the most familiar with, but if you've had some bad experiences in the past, keep in mind that there are thousands of other dental facilities around the country. Just because you're used to your family dentist, doesn't mean there isn't another one out there that is better suited to your needs. Read dentist reviews online or ask for recommendations to find a family dentist you like. - Be Honest
It's important to let your dentist know about your apprehensions. This way, he or she can work to assuage your fears, explaining the processes as they go along, and provide comfort. There are also steps that can be taken to alleviate your discomfort: headphones, different dentist tools, or even sedatives are tools that most dentist offices keep on hand. - Better Safe Than Sorry
Avoiding dental care can have really negative effects on the heath and quality of your smile. Previous generations who may not have had access to regular dental care have suffered as a result. About 15 million people in the U.S. have bridge and crown replacements for missing teeth. You don't want to damage your teeth beyond repair, simply because you are afraid.
Your local dentist office is not a place to be afraid of, and you should not be dreading your next appointment. It's not unusual to be a little nervous about a dental procedure, but there really is no need to be. Your dentist is a trained professional, who knows the best way to take care of you, while creating the least amount of discomfort.