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Happy New Year! In 2023, you may have many resolutions. Visiting the dentist may be one of them. Unfortunately, dental anxiety is a serious condition affecting many people. It can be debilitating, making seeing a dentist difficult or even impossible.
According to the American Dental Association, 30-40% of Americans avoid going to the dentist because they are anxious or fearful of the dentist. Fortunately, there are ways to cope with dental anxiety. Here are some tips for how to do so in 2023.
Don't Wait Until You Have a Problem to See a Dentist
One of the main reasons people develop dental anxiety is that they wait until they have a problem to see a dentist. This can be due to financial reasons, fear of finding out they have a problem, or simply not making time for preventive care.
Seeing a dentist regularly for preventive care can help you catch problems early when they're easier and less expensive to treat. It can also help you get to know your dentist and feel more comfortable with them, making going to the dentist less anxiety-inducing.
Talk to Your Dentist About Your Anxiety
Your dentist should be aware of your anxiety and be able to work with you to make your experience as calm and relaxing as possible.
If you're uncomfortable talking about your anxiety with your current dentist, it may be time to find a new one who is more understanding and accommodating. When you find the right dentist, let them know about your specific fears and concerns so they can address them accordingly.
Consider Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry may be the best option for some people with dental anxiety. This involves taking medication before your appointment that makes you feel relaxed or even asleep during the procedure.
Since the medication will take some time to wear off, you will still need someone to drive you home after your appointment. Be sure to talk to your dentist about sedation dentistry options before ruling it out completely.
Get a Dental Checkup in Omaha
We welcome patients from Bellevue, Lincoln, and other nearby communities in Nebraska. We offer four office locations. For more information or to schedule an appointment or checkup, call Hillsborough at 402-802-9956, Village Pointe at 402-505-7474, Ralston Square at 402-307-6141, or Dundee at 402-307-6244.