Are you the kind of person who gets nervous about receiving dental care? Do you have an upcoming procedure that is causing you stress and worry? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Dentists see patients all the time who struggle to feel calm during their appointments, especially when a more complex service is required, such as tooth extraction. If you are concerned about having one or more of your teeth removed, here are 4 tips to help you conquer your fears.
Communicate with Your Dentist
Your dentist is your friend and ally, so if you are concerned or fearful about your upcoming tooth extraction, talk to them about it. They want to know how you’re feeling and what they can do to make you more comfortable. By discussing your anxiety and learning more about what you can expect from your dentist, you can feel more at ease on the day of your procedure.
Listen to Music
If your dentist provides headphones or allows you to bring yours in, listen to music during your appointment. Having something else to focus on helps take your mind off what is happening inside your mouth. Just remember to breathe throughout the procedure and try not to move your head along to the music. You’ll need to remain still so that your dentist can work more efficiently and effectively.
Ask a Family Member or Friend to Come With You
When undergoing a tooth extraction, you can expect to receive local anesthesia so that your mouth is numb, and you don’t feel any pain. However, if you are more comfortable having a friend or family member come with you, bring them along. Although they will not be in the same room, just knowing they are waiting for you can help calm your nerves.
Also, if you receive dental sedation (apart from nitrous oxide), you’ll need to have someone take you home anyway!
Practice Breathing Exercises
Like listening to music, breathing exercises can help take your mind off your tooth extraction. By focusing on inhaling and exhaling slowly, you can shift your thoughts away from the work being done. This will help you to slowly relax and feel more comfortable throughout your procedure.
There is nothing to fear when preparing for a tooth extraction, but if you need a little help taking the edge off, try one of these methods to stay calm during your appointment.
About the Author
Dr. Kyrslyne Thomas earned her dental degree from the Medical College of Georgia. With 10+ years of experience, she delivers first-class, personalized service to her patients in Pearland. Offering in-house tooth extraction for greater convenience, she ensures superior comfort and safety throughout the procedure. Regardless of the reason for your tooth removal, if you have questions about treatment or need help to overcome anxiety beforehand, contact us at (832) 520–2949 to schedule an appointment.