7 Tips for Reducing Dental Anxiety
Calm Your Dental Jitters
Having to go to the dentist, even if just for a routine cleaning, can cause stress. Dental anxiety is not rare, and even the toughest and roughest among us can experience it when it’s our time to visit the dentist. Here are seven ways you can help reduce your stress before your visit.
1. Talk It Out
It’s important to be able to openly discuss any concerns you may have about your procedure with your dental team. Take the time to jot them down before your appointment so you can have a clear and concise conversation with the experts at your dental office. They’ll go over your concerns with you and shed some light on their practices and procedures, which will help put you at ease. Knowing exactly what to expect can go a long way in reducing dental anxiety.
3. Stay Distraction-Ready
Even just sitting in the waiting room can be anxiety-inducing, so be sure to bring along books, podcasts, or meditation apps for your pre-appointment comfort. These simple little distractions can help keep your mind from wandering and your stress levels down to a minimum while waiting for your appointment.
4. Get Moving
There’s a strong connection between our physical well-being and our mental state, and while the idea of any exercise before a dental appointment may seen unconventional, the benefits of light physical activity before heading into your appointment are undeniable. Light exercise promotes the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers and mood elevators. Go for a short walk, stretch, or do a bit of light yoga to elevate your mood.
5. Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks
Most of us avoid eating right before we go to our dental appointments, but avoiding certain foods and beverages earlier in the day can also help lower anxiety levels. Caffeine, sugary snacks, and sodas can create rapid fluctuations in our blood sugar levels, causing mood swings and actually increasing anxiety. Instead, try to limit your pre-appointment intake to water or sugar and caffeine-free drinks. Magnesium-rich foods like leafy greens have also been shown to help calm the nervous system if you’re feeling hungry before your appointment.
6. Timing is Key!
Some of us are morning people, while others do better in the afternoon or early evenings. When it comes to dental anxiety, timing can make all the difference. The day and time of your appointment can greatly influence you stress levels. If you tend to feel better in the morning, speak with your dental team about scheduling an early appointment, and vice versa if you usually feel better later in the day.
7. Get Your Z’s
Sleep is a fundamental pillar of our well-being. As you get closer to your appointment, the quality of your sleep can play a pivotal role in determining your anxiety levels. Getting a good night’s sleep can enhance cognitive function and reduce tension, so be sure to stick to a sleep schedule on the days leading up to your appointment. Practicing good sleep hygiene before your visit will arm you with one of the most powerful tools to fight anxiety - being well rested.
Turn Your Stress into Success
For many, dental appointments can be a daunting experience. But with a little preparation, you can transform your dental anxiety into a sense of calm and readiness. By educating yourself, fostering open communication with the friendly and helpful team at Elite Care Dental, and taking care of your mental and physical well-being before your visit, you’ll be in the best position possible for a smooth visit. The next time you mark that dental check-up on your calendar, remember that you have the means to make it a stress-free experience, and you'll not only leave the dentist's chair with a brighter smile but also a brighter mood.