Dental Anxiety | Tips for Easing Dental Anxiety

We know that there can be a lot of anxiety about seeing a dental specialist, but, for those individuals with a severe anxiety or phobia, years can go by without any form of dental exam or cleaning.

Between 9%-15% of US adults do not visit the dentist because of their phobia or anxiety. When you avoid the dentist, your chances of disease and dental health issues increase. Many people that are scared of visiting the dentist still do not go even when major issues arise, leaving them in pain or with a number of cosmetic issues. To keep a healthy mouth and avoid serious health issues, visiting a dental professional is vital to everyone. If you are anxious or fearful about going to get a procedure or just a routine cleaning, we would like to offer some tips that can help ease the anxiety.

Listen to Music
Bring your headphones with you and listen to music during your procedure. Listening to music will help keep you focused and distract you from any other noises that may be occurring.

Bring a Friend or Family Member
You can take a friend or family member with you and accompany you while your teeth are being worked on.

Concentrate on Your Breathing
Once you are seated, just relax your muscles and concentrate on your breathing. Like listening to music, this will help keep you focused on one thing and keep your mind from racing.

Are you fearful or anxious about having dental work completed?

If you have avoided visiting the dentist or a specialist because of fear, feel free to contact Periodontal Associates of Jackson in Jackson, MS to discuss your concerns. Avoiding issues that relate to the health of your gums can result in a number of serious issues. You want to make sure that your mouth remains healthy so you can live a healthy life.