How to Stop Being Afraid of the Dentist As an Adult
Nobody likes to go to the dentist. Well, okay, that’s not true. At least one person who will remain unnamed (Lifehacker managing editor Virginia Smith) says she loves the experience.
“I find scraping, etc. Perversely satisfying?” she said. “And I just love it when they get to the level of dental cleanliness. It’s a bit like if you were a kid, you have a loose tooth and you love to twist it, I think.
I admit, I also like the way my teeth look after a professional scrub and scrub. And while I would not classify myself as a “scared” dentist – despite the rather traumatic experience of having a wisdom tooth as a teenager that I would not get into – I still found that my hands clenched a little throughout the process.
If you are the opposite of Virginia, you are not alone. Dentophobia – yes, the fear of the dentist – is widespread in our society; by some estimates, nearly 75% of all Americans have some level of fear of going to the dentist. It seems high to me, but certainly common.
However, scared or not, you really need to go to the dentist from time to time to check for cavities and other problems, even if you can’t bring yourself to do it every 6 months.
Find the right one
If you don’t already have a dentist you can tolerate, ask family and friends for advice. Practically more important than your chosen dentist is the hygienist, as he will do most of the basic work. I had hygienists who … not affectionate … and I had hygienists who hardly touched my teeth. Find someone who is known for their gentle hand.
If you can’t get reliable personal advice, call the reception and ask which child hygienists love the most. That’s what you need.
Timing is everything
If you are most likely not averse to tearing away from an upcoming meeting, schedule it at the beginning of the day. You will have less time to build up the stress of anticipation, and the likelihood of canceling it will decrease. In addition, the earlier the appointment is made, the less likely patients will be detained in the waiting room, so you will get in and out faster.
Come prepared
If it has been a long time since your last check-up, you will want to arrive early enough to complete the forms and of course bring all applicable insurance cards with you. But also, be sure to write down any questions you have about one hypersensitive tooth or how you grind your teeth at night. Your nervous day can make you forget about everything you wanted to ask, so it’s best to arm yourself with a written reminder.
Bring support
If possible, bring a friend or loved one with you. Even if they are just sitting with you in the waiting room, it will be easier for you if someone pats you on the back and says, “Honestly, this is not so bad; do you have this! “
If you can’t provide human support, bring something to cuddle or fiddle with. Stress relief balls are especially helpful and will give you the ability to grip something other than the armrests of your chair.
Say you’re scared
If you are nervous / scared / totally scared, say it early and repeat it often. Let the receptionist know when you call to make an appointment and remind her when you arrive. Tell your hygienist before he starts, and say so the last time the dentist comes to check on you.
These people are very used to caring for patients who are 100% NOT willing to be there. If they know you’re uncomfortable, they’ll probably be a little softer in their approach and perhaps find a few ways to: 1. make sure your teeth don’t rot, and 2. put you back in place. way home.
Drown out the noise
Despite all the technological advances in our life, I cannot understand why dental instruments still sound like instruments of torture. That shrill whirring of the polisher and the whistle of the spittoon is a nightmare. (Okay, I’m not helping.)
Apparently, we are stuck in these horrible sounds ringing in our ears from today until infinity, so it is best to drown them out. Take a pair of headphones with you, connect them to your phone and make your favorite soothing sounds. Mozart is possibly the latest and greatest podcast on true crime ( Live and Die in Los Angeles is my current favorite, but I digress). Tune in to whatever distracts you from the cacophony of boring screams going on around your face.
Think ahead
When your meeting comes to its merciful conclusion, make another appointment on the spot. This is a good idea for several reasons. Many dentists – like dermatologists – make regular appointments IN ADVANCE, so it’s best to take your seat. But more importantly, after six months you won’t have to worry about whether to do it over and over again; the decision will already be made.
And if you like your hygienist, do not forget to make an appointment with him next time.