Ways to Stay Relaxed in the Dental office

Visiting the dentist can be an uncomfortable experience, which is one of the main reasons many patients miss their bi-yearly check-ins. But dental phobia and fear are taken seriously at any dental office because missing these appointments can mean a negative impact to your oral health and wellness. Here are some ways that you can stay relaxed at the dental office.

Choosing a Free Day To Visit the Dentist

If you know that you haven’t been to the dentist in awhile and that you may need additional treatments aside from a standard cleaning, keeping your entire day free can calm you down and put you at ease during your visit. With the whole day available, you won’t run into issues related to time restraints and will be able to receive all necessary treatment, or schedule for future treatments if required. 

Having a full day to visit the dentist can also mean allowing yourself to unwind from a long time in the dental chair. By keeping the whole day free, you can relax at home after the appointment and take the time to take care of yourself. Visit the dentist becomes the only task on the agenda and allow you to focus less on stressful things.

Blankets and Headphones

If you’re undergoing a longer treatment or hate the feeling of a cold, clinical office, bringing in blankets or headphones can keep you comfortable. Blankets are a great way to keep you warm during treatments and remain cozy while the dentist conducts treatment.

Headphones can be necessary for patients who have a fear of hearing drilling and other sounds that occur during certain treatments. Choose a playlist that makes you happy and puts you in a comfortable mood when listening while you’re in the dental chair to remain calm and relaxed. Be sure to let the dentist and assistant know to either touch your hand or arm if they need to speak with you directly during treatment. 

Sedation

Sedation options may be available at your dental clinic and can make receiving treatments easier. From oral sedation, which are pills that are taken prior to the appointment, to conscious sedation with laughing gas, these options can give you a sense of ease. Some patients have mentioned that they don’t feel anything at all. It’s important to discuss with your dentists the costs and benefits of receiving sedation for certain treatments.

For more information about how to stay relaxed in the dental chair, contact our office today.