5 Tips to Get ‘Soundly’ Through Your Next Dental Visit

Getting Over Dental Anxiety

“I can wait a few more months before I go to the dentist.” Well, if it’s been over six months you really can’t! But if you’re not going to the dentist due to anxiety, well, you’re not alone. Here are a few ways to avoid those anxieties.

Ditch the Fear. Embrace the Nap!

1. Be Upfront About Your Anxieties- Your Dentist doesn’t know that your back molar screams with pain whenever you touch it, unless you tell them so. Give your dentist the tools he or she needs to give gentle dental care where needed. Most dentists are happy to oblige, and the ones who don’t are terrifying!

2. Make Notes About Problems You May be Having- If you are having any pain or problems with your teeth/mouth make notes such as the pain you are experiencing, when it started and swollen or bleeding gums. This will better prepare your dentist as to what may be going on in your mouth.

3.Don’t be Afraid to Ask Questions- Inform your dentist of any questions you may have. Having the information you need/want to know will help lessen your fear and anxiety.

4. Get Informed About Sedation Dentistry- Sedation Dentistry has been a popular field of dentistry for quite some time. It also seems that while many people know about it, they don’t believe it would pertain to the dental services they require. To the contrary, sedation dentistry can be utilized in many dental procedures! It appears people are going without sedation even when they don’t have to! So, please ask your dentist if sedation dentistry is right for you.

5. Bring a Sleep Mask & Headphones- Don’t worry it’s not rude. Many people don’t fear the dentist him/herself, but instead fear the lights, colors, and sounds in a dentist’s office. Block yourself out from your surroundings and concentrate on relaxing!

p.s. Don’t forget the blanket (at participating locations only)

You’re Not Alone

The Adult Dental Health Survey identified one in three patients suffer from moderate dental anxiety and about one in eight suffer from extreme dental anxiety. Often times this is because adults have unpleasant memories from their childhood dental visits. Technology is continuously improving, and we are now in an era of patient-centered care where we respect you as a patient and are considerate of your fears and concerns.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

With that being said, Dr. Newman offers sedation dentistry to help ease nervous patients. Dr. Matthew Yezerski is licensed to provide general anesthesia in the office setting and works with Dr. Newman. This helps encourage patients who may avoid the dentist due to fear.

What is True Sleep Dentistry?

Dr. Newman’s office provides true sleep dentistry. Unlike conscious sedation, which still provides a deep level of relaxation, the patient is unconscious throughout the whole treatment. You basically get to take a nap while getting your teeth cleaned. Talk about two birds one stone! True sleep dentistry provides patients with the ultimate level of comfort.

If you would like to know more about sedation dentistry, or overcoming your dental fear, contact our Nashville office for a consultation. We would love to make your next dental visit stress free!