Been Avoiding the Dentist for Years? Four Tips to Make Your First Appointment a Success
Posted on: 24 February 2023
Share
Dental fear is very common, with the University of Adelaide explaining that one in six adults suffer from high dental fear. This can make appointments difficult, and many people stop attending altogether. If you are returning to the dentist after a long absence, these tips can help make your appointment a success.
Choose the Right Dentist for Your Needs
The first thing you should do is to make sure you've chosen the right dentist for your return. The right dentist is in a location that's easy to access from your home and makes booking and paying for appointments easy. This will help eliminate resistance to attending appointments. Their practice will feel welcoming, and you'll feel you can speak to the dentist and other staff about your dental fear. There may also be other requirements based on your specific circumstances. For example, if you have children, you might like there to be a children's dentist at the same practice.
Speak to Your Dentist about Your Dental History
Dental fear is common, and your dentist will be used to supporting patients like you. Therefore, it's a great idea to talk to them about your specific fears and dental history. For example, if your fear is rooted in an old dentist who caused you pain, it's a good idea to explain that so they can avoid accidentally doing the same thing. They will also be able to explain what options are available to you, from being able to stop and start an examination as you wish to dental sedation.
Ask for Support from Friends and Family
You should also ask for support from friends and family before your appointment. Perhaps you need someone to hold you accountable and drive you to the appointment to make sure you attend. Maybe you need someone to distract you in the waiting room, talk to the dentist for you and advocate for you, or even take you out for lunch afterward! Whatever type of support you need, your friends and family will understand the massive step you are taking and support you.
Work on Your Mindset Before the Appointment
You should also work on your mindset. Try journaling your thoughts or talking to a therapist or trusted friend before the appointment. You could also learn some meditation or relaxation techniques to try in the waiting room or in the dentist's chair. Work out the root cause of your worry, and go from there. For example, if you are worried that the dentist will judge you on your teeth, think rationally about the number of people they see every day, and the variety of teeth they must see.
By picking the right dentist, asking for the support you need, and working on your mindset, you can make your dentist appointment a success and work at the root of your dental fear. For more information, contact a dentist near you.