Does the thought of visiting the dentist’s office literally make you shudder? Do you battle a sense of anxiety or outright fear when you go in for a dental visit? You are not alone. Dental care is a very personal health service, and Dr. Helen Ragsdale, DDS at Austin Laser Dentist understands that well. Dr. Ragsdale and her team of professionals are committed to creating a soothing atmosphere where Austin, TX patients can rest assured their oral health and emotional well-being are top priority.
Keep in mind that the dentist, dental hygienists, and other staff members who are involved in your care want you to have a positive experience during your visit. The last thing any of them wish is for you to experience discomfort, pain, or anxiety. They recognize their work is important but the work space (your mouth) is small and complex. They will make every effort to see to your comfort during your visit to the dental office.
That is good to know, you might think, but how do I shake this awful case of pre-dental visit jitters?
Tell Us About It
Speak up and let your dentist know how you are feeling. Your dentist, of all people, will completely understand your concerns, fear of needles, dislike of certain sounds or sensation caused by dental tools. Share your thoughts. Chances are, your dentist and the team of caregivers will be able to provide options for your care than can reduce your stress and worries. With sedation dentistry, you have options for receiving the dental care you need without suffering from severe anxiety.
Visualize Positive Images
When you sit back in the dental chair, it can be hard to escape the close reality of where you are. Face it: A dental professional working on your teeth and gums is definitely an up-close-and-personal health care experience! If you feel those nervous thoughts coming in or begin to feel frightened by the atmosphere you are in, close your eyes or fix your gaze on a spot in the room. Breathe calmly. Think about those you love – a spouse, a child, a parent, a friend, or a pet – and focus on the positives of those relationships. Think of them as your “why” – why you want to take care of yourself, why you want to set a good example for your kids, why you want to prevent any future oral health or physical health issues by caring for your dental health needs now. These types of thoughts can refocus your mind, change your perspective, and provide some much-needed relief from fear.
Practice Gratitude
“I was terrified,” Amy said (not her real name). “I had avoided going to the dentist because I was scared. Fast forward seven years, and I am in the dentist’s chair having gum therapy done to remove plaque that had built up and collected under my gums over the years. I was practically in tears, I was so nervous. So, I said prayer to myself expressing gratitude. Gratitude for access to good dental care, for the fact that my teeth were not falling out, and that I was heading off worse health issues by taking care of this now. It worked!”
Perhaps this could be a strategy for you – taking time to be thankful. Yes, you can be thankful for the dentist, but take time to make a mental list of and give thanks for the good things in your life. While you are receiving your cleaning or other dental services, you are a captive audience. Distract your mind and encourage yourself by counting your blessings!
Ready, Set, Relax, and Contact Us!
You can use any of these strategies to help you cope with dental anxiety. Most importantly, talk with Dr. Ragsdale and her team of dental professionals. When you schedule your consultation, make plans to stop by our office located near you at 11615 Angus Rd., Ste 101 in Austin, TX. When you come in, we can discuss any concerns you may have about your upcoming dental visit. You do not have to be afraid; we will walk with you through the process, providing high quality dental care in a comforting atmosphere. Contact us at 512 346-4690 to make your worry-free appointment today.
