Do you dread going to the dentist? Does the thought of having your teeth cleaned fill you with anxiety? If so, you are not alone. Many people find the thought of seeing a dentist very stressful. However, this does not have to be the case follow the guide below to reducing dentist-induced anxiety.
Talk to your dentist
Letting your dentist know what makes you anxious can help create a calm atmosphere during your appointment. Your dentist can provide helpful tips and tricks to make the experience less intimidating.
Listen to Music
Distract yourself with music or podcasts. Listening to calming tunes or an interesting podcast can take your mind off the appointment and help relax your mind.
Deep Breathing
Practice deep breathing exercises. Having a few minutes to take some deep breaths can help slow down your heart rate and reduce stress levels.
Go with a Friend or Family Member
Take a friend or family member with you. Having someone close by can give you some much-needed moral support and make the experience less intimidating.
Take Care of Your Teeth EVERY Day
Make sure you’re taking care of your teeth. You should floss, brush your teeth, and use an oral rinse at least twice a day. This can help prevent any problems from ever arising. If you’re unsure of what products you should be using, don’t be afraid to ask your dentist.
Eat Smart
Eat nutritious meals and avoid harmful snacking for better teeth. Try to avoid carbs like pretzels, chips, candy, and other junk food. These types of foods can remain on the surface of your teeth which can cause painful and expensive dental issues to fix.
Ask About Payment Plans
If cost concerns are bothering you when it comes to getting proper dental care, make sure you ask your dental provider about payment plans. Some procedures can be rather expensive, but most providers are willing to work with patients on payment arrangements. Often, an installment arrangement can be worked out and this can enable you to get immediate treatment.
Use Alcohol-Free Mouthwash
Only use mouthwash free of alcohol. Alcohol as an ingredient can dry out the tissues in your mouth. This creates a breeding ground for the very bacteria you are hoping to avoid. Alcohol-free mouthwash is also less of a temptation for kids and teenagers looking to experiment with when bored.
Always Brush After Eating Sticky Foods
Brush after eating sticky foods. Foods like caramel and taffy can stick to the surface of your teeth. This can be very damaging to your teeth. Make sure that you thoroughly brush away the residue as soon as possible. Additionally, you may want to limit your consumption of these sorts of foods.
Use Fluoride Toothpaste
Your mouth is full of both good and bad bacteria. To help destroy the bad bacteria in your mouth brush your teeth using a fluoride toothpaste several times a day. Ask your dentist for his recommendation of the toothpaste that will work best to protect your teeth from bacteria.
Don’t Rush the Brush
To ensure your teeth are getting properly cleaned, make it a point to brush your teeth for a minimum of two minutes. It’s very easy to get bored when brushing your teeth, and boredom can lead to a rush job. However, thinking of a favorite song or some other pleasant thought during brushing can help pass the time. It’s important to give your teeth the attention they deserve.
Recent Comments