If going to the dentist gives you a lot of anxiety and fear, then you are certainly not alone. Going to the dentist is something that a lot of people dread on some level, but because the American Dental Association recommends that you get a dental cleaning every six months, it's not something that you should avoid. This article will take a closer look at a few ways that you can calm down before you go in for your next dental cleaning. Ready to learn a little bit more about how you can be calmer during your next dental appointment? Read on to learn more.
Take Deep Breaths
It may sound a little bit odd, but you may be surprised to know just how calming deep breathing exercises can be. Before you go into your appointment, make sure that you try taking slow, deep breaths by inhaling through your nose and then exhaling through your mouth. These deep breathing techniques should help you calm down your heart rate and go into your appointment feeling a little bit calmer. Then, you can also take deep breaths throughout your entire appointment if you feel some anxiety coming on.
Ask About Sedation
If you really want a little bit of help feeling calm during your next dental cleaning, ask your dentist about sedation dentistry which is a new option that a lot of dentists are offering to patients. Depending on the severity of your anxiety, your dentist may recommend something like taking a Valium beforehand or even taking some sedatives (all of which will be administered to you by your dental professional). During your initial consultation with your dentist, you can discuss your level of anxiety to determine which option will give you great results while still being good enough for your health. Make sure that you are open and upfront with your dentist about any of your health issues, because certain types of sedation may be harmful to you and your health. If need be, bring some of your health records so that your dentist is more familiar with your health history.
If your anxiety is getting in the way of going to the dentist to get a regular dental cleaning, then make sure that you consider these tips and keep them in mind before your next appointment. If you want to learn a little bit more, contact your dentist and schedule a consultation with them today!
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