Many people dread visiting the dentist. Regardless of how simple the procedure may be, there is something about the dentist that strikes fear in even the bravest of individuals. What most patients don’t realize, however, is that by establishing a rapport with their dentist, they can reduce much of the fear and anxiety that they experience during routine dental appointments.
Talk to your family or cosmetic dentist about your concerns, be honest about your pain and symptoms, and learn to trust your dentist’s expertise. Once you feel comfortable with your dentist, you’ll feel much more confident and relaxed at your next visit.
Disclose Current Medical Information
It’s crucial to your overall health that your family or cosmetic dentist has the most up-to-date information about your medical history, health conditions and medications. In order to deliver the safest and most appropriate dental treatments, your dentist must be aware of any medical problems or allergies.
Patients with specific heart conditions, for example, need to be administered antibiotics before undergoing dental work. When there is bleeding in the mouth, oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream, and if the bacteria reach the heart, severe inflammation of the heart valves can occur. With that being said, it’s extremely important that your dentist is notified of any medical problems before undergoing any dental treatment.
Communicate Dental Pain and Fears
If you are experiencing dental pain and you fail to mention the problem to your dentist, he may or may not be able to detect it on his own, especially if the dental problem is in its early stages. Always notify your dentist of changes or discomfort you are experiencing. The earlier your dentist identifies a problem, the less invasive treatment that will be needed.
Are you nervous about an upcoming dental treatment? Express your fears and apprehension to your dentist. When your dentist understands your concerns, he can modify the procedure or administer additional anesthesia. Develop a signal for your dentist, such as raising your hand. If you are experiencing discomfort, pain or fear during dental work, your dentist will know to stop when he notices your signal. Or, ask your dentist about videos, music and other media players that may be offered in the office to take your mind off of the procedure.
Build Trust with Your Dentist
Finally, if you want to overcome your dental fears and achieve optimal dental health, learn to be open and honest with your dentist. Once you feel confident in his dental expertise, you can rest assured that you are receiving quality, professional dental care. After all, your dentist is the specialist, not you. Trust that he has the credentials to take care of your dental needs.
And, just as you need to rely on your dentist for honest answers, your dentist also needs to be able to trust you. Express your fears, concerns and pain. If a dental procedure is hurting you, your dentist needs to trust that you will tell him so that he can modify the treatment.
Communication is critical to a successful dental care plan. Overcome your dental fears and talk to your dentist about any problems or concerns. Once you feel comfortable talking to your dentist, you’ll no longer tremble at the thought of your next trip to the dentist.