Top 5 Ways to Calm Your Nerves Before Visiting the Dentist
The waiting room at any dentist’s office can be a stressful environment. If you are nervous or scared, it can be even more frightening. As we know too well, though, if you are too tense or anxious before your visit to the dentist, your heart rate will increase and blood pressure will rise, which could lead to an even worse outcome.
In fact, stress anxiety before a dental appointment can go beyond making the wait seem long. It could also make your entire visit and recovery time more difficult. However, there are different ways to calm your nerves before visiting your dentist in Greenbelt, MD, next time.
Here are the top 5 ways to calm your nerves before visiting the dentist.
- Get acquainted with the team and equipment
The first step is to become familiar with the staff at your dentist’s office. Ask if you can sit in on any dental procedures before your appointment or have a tour of the facilities. This will give you time to get used to the environment and ensure that they are comfortable working with you and your dentist. Having a tour of the dental office also helps you get familiarized with the equipment. Being comfortable with the equipment is essential for getting the best results.
- Use of distractions
Distractions are another way to help reduce your anxiety before a dental appointment. Having a mobile phone or other electronic device with you may help. You can use your headphones or music player to listen to soothing music. “Nerve calming” music can also help you relax during your visit. This will also help you to use your time effectively while you’re waiting for your turn.
- Deep breathing
You can try to use deep breathing exercises to manage your anxiety and tension. This helps to regulate your body’s heartbeat and blood pressure, helping you calm down before the visit. Deep breathing techniques also help to relax the body muscles and activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for relaxation.
- Sedation dentistry
Many dentists today offer sedation dentistry to help patients who are nervous about the procedure or who worry that they will feel too much pain during the treatment. This helps patients relax and is an effective method of increasing their confidence and decreasing their anxiety.
- Speak to the dentist before your treatment
You should speak to your dentist before any treatment and explain your situation. Let him know what has caused you anxiety and that you feel you are having a hard time controlling it. Ask if there is anything he can do to help reduce your anxiety during treatment and recovery.
