It’s OK To Feel Nervous
Do you find yourself avoiding my office because you experience anxiety at the thought of a hygiene examination, cleaning, or dental treatment? If so, you are not alone. There are a large number of adults who also experience anxiety or fear the dentist. Avoiding dental care can lead to serious oral health complications and more time in my office. I want to share some tips to help you relax before your visit. Read on to learn more.
Tips to Help You Relax Before Your Appointment
Nerves and anxiety are common in more patients than you may realize. Routine dental care is important to ensure that you do not experience a dental emergency and continue to maintain optimal oral health. I would love for you to try these tips before your next appointment:
Schedule Your Appointment at an Ideal Time
Just as I recommend for my young patients to visit during a time that is ideal, I suggest the same tip for any nervous patients. Morning appointments are usually best, and it is wise to avoid an appointment after a long and stressful work day.
Avoid Caffeine
Many people thrive on caffeinated beverages, but it’s a good idea to delay your caffeine fix until after your appointment. Caffeine is a stimulant that can raise your heart rate and blood pressure, causing you unnecessary anxiety.
Listen To Calming Music
It is a great idea to listen to your favorite calming music on your drive to the office. I also recommend bringing your headphones to your appointment to help drown out the sounds and pass the time. Many of my patients enjoy listening to their favorite music, podcast, or an audiobook.
Be Honest With My Team
If you feel extreme anxiety before you visit the office or your feelings have been holding you back from getting treatment, please be honest with my team when you call for an appointment. You are not alone in your feelings, in fact, there are a number of patients we see who experience dental anxiety. We always want you to feel comfortable while under our care. We hope you will try the tips that we mention above and tell us how we can help you feel more at ease.
If you have any questions about your oral health, I would love to speak with you. If it has been longer than six months since your last visit to the office or you need to schedule a recommended treatment, I would recommend calling my office located in Kauffman, TX and scheduling an appointment today. My team and I look forward to seeing you soon!
