The fear of dentist, commonly known as dental phobia or dental anxiety, is one of the most common phobias in the world.  For many, the idea of sitting in a dentist chair is enough to give them nightmares; that's why dental phobia is a problem that needs to be addressed as oral hygiene is important for everyone. If you suffer from fear of going to the dentist, here are a few tips that can help you break the cycle.

Be Open to Your Dentist about Your Fears

For most adults, they find it embarrassing to open up to their dentist about their phobia to the extent that they don't even share with them. However, you need to keep in mind that your dentist has probably encountered several other patients with dental phobias. Sharing your phobia with your dentist will ensure that they can take the necessary measures to accommodate your fear.

Know the Various Tools Used By Dentist

It's human nature to be afraid of pointy and sharp tools, especially when the tools are going in your mouth. Request your dentists to hand over the tools to you before the dental procedure is administered on you so you can familiarize yourself with them. A good dentist will explain the function of each tool.

Interact With Your Dentist First

For many people, their idea of a dentist is a scary, masked person with a white coat. However, it's important to know that your dentist is a caring human being. You can schedule an appointment with your dentist to know him/her better and discuss your fears with them. Seeing your dentist as a real person will convince your mind to feel calmer when you see them with a medical mask and white coat.

Come Up With a Signal

Set up a signal with your dentist before the procedure to tell him or her when to stop the procedure; you can raise your hand or snap your fingers. Knowing that you can communicate to your dentist will calm your fears.

Know that dentistry has changed

If you fear going to the dentist due to a traumatizing experience you had as a child, remember that your dental procedure happened before many advancements in the world of dentistry. New dental procedures and products have been developed, and you may be having a fear of a procedure that isn't performed anymore.

See a professional

Several dental phobias often cannot be overcome by the tips above, though you can try them to put you at ease with your dentist. When it comes to severe dental phobia, you need to seek professional help from a psychologist.

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