Don’t Fear The Dentist!

First of all, he won’t hurt you. Contrary to popular belief, that is not his/her job. Second of all because as reasonable adults, we should be able to understand that the man in the white robe, drill in hand and smile on face, is not there to hurt us, but rather to provide an essential medical procedure, one that can save your life-even if sometimes that means enduring a little pain, as this is the way to prevent lots of pain.

A lot of us have had terrible experiences with the dentist as children, not to mention the mandatory school trips to the dentists office, and if orthodontics were worn during childhood, this experience may add to the prevalent fear of the dentist. All too often, this fear stays with us through adulthood, and we may feel anxiety even at the mention of the word ‘dentist’. But sad as it is to say it, we have to get over our fears.

Stress can be alleviated by doing the following exercises:

- If you are afraid, tell your dentist about it, s/he may find ways to alleviate your fear, and seeing the human/humane side of your dentist may reduce your fear.

- If you have any questions, even if they seem dumb, ask them. The only stupid question is the one left unasked. A good dentist will do everything in his/her power to answer your questions, and to debunk the many myths that exist about this field of medicine.

- Bring an mp3 player and listen to music you like. Many times the source of fear is not so much visual as it is audible, the sound of the drill has quite a strong psychological effect.

- If the visual of the drill and the needle is what is bothering you, close your eyes, only your mouth needs to be open. Try to relax,a s the time spent at the dentists office will feel like less if you are relaxed.

- Go to the dentist when you are not too busy and do not have a lot on your plate. This will also help you relax.

If you face your fears, dear patient, you will experience greater oral health, which will lead to a better, more balanced life. And of course to a much more beautiful smile, which is always useful. 

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