How-To & Education
Overcome Fear Of The Dentist
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Overcome Fear Of The Dentist
Let's face it, a visit to the dentist isn't high up on your list of "things to do today". Even my own dentist said she doesn't like having her teeth examined, so it's quite normal to be at least apprehensive about a visit to the dentist.
But an actual fear of the dentist?
One that stops you from going anywhere near a dental surgery?
It's actually quite common.
So how do you go about overcoming your fear of the dentist?
Start by asking friends and work colleagues who they use. Not all dentists are equal and some have a better way of dealing with nervous patients than others.
Meet your potential dentist face to face. Quiz them about how they deal with people who have a fear of dentists.
Make sure your dentist knows about your phobia. This goes for the visit to the dental hygienist as well. That way they're not taken by surprise if your fear comes to the surface.
If possible, take a close friend or loved one to sit through the procedure with you. If your dentist won't allow you to do this, find one who does.
If you're stressed about something else, take steps to relax more often and de-stress your life generally.
Listen to a specialist hypnosis MP3 to help overcome your fear. They're cheap and very effective.
How To Get Over Your Fear Of The Dentist
More Ways To Get Rid Of Fear Of The Dentist
Find a method that helps you to relax.Many people turn almost rigid as soon as they set foot in a dental surgery, let alone sitting in the actual dentists chair.
Remember to breathe!
Nice, long, deep breaths will help to calm you while you are waiting for your dentist to work on your teeth.
If the noise of the drill is what puts you off, ask your dentist if you can wear your iPod headphones during the procedure. Listening to your favorite music will help distract you.
Don't let your dentist start work until the anesthetic is working. Of course, if you have a fear of needles then you'll need to talk with your dentist about any alternative methods of making your gums numb while the drilling takes place. And don't be afraid to tell your dentist if the numbness wears off early.
Don't take anti-anxiety drugs just before your appointment. If you regularly take these drugs, make sure your dentist is aware of what you are taking so they can make sure they don't react with anything they are using. Ideally, use a natural relaxation technique instead.
For the best and quickest cure for any phobia, including phobia of dentists, check out this 9 minute phobia fix.
What's Your Biggest Fear About Going To The Dentist?
More Help To Overcome Your Dental Phobia
Overcoming Medical Phobias: How to Conquer Fear of Blood, Needles, Doctors, And Dentists
Amazon Price: $10.17 (as of 08/21/2008)
Easy-to-read and practical guide teaches readers who experience extreme fear in situations involving blood, injections, surgery, physicians, and dental procedures, how to understand and overcome their medical phobia.
More About Dentist And Other Phobias
A phobia (from Greek: ?????, phobos, "fear"), is an irrational, intense, persistent fear of certain situations, activities, things, or people. The main symptom of this disorder is the excessive, unreasonable desire to avoid the feared subject. When the fear is beyond one's control, or if the fear is interfering with daily life, then a diagnosis under one of the anxiety disorders can be made. Edmund J. Bourne, The Anxiety & Phobia Workbook, 4th ed, New Harbinger Publications, 2005, ISBN 1-57224-413-5
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ThomRichards
Hi Trevord Posted May 01, 2008 |
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