Tips To Reduce Your Fear Of Dentists

Lots of people are afraid of dentists. Heck, even the dentist I visit told me that she hates going to the dentist herself, so if she does dentistry for a living and is afraid...?

And of course there are always the different medieval looking instruments they put in your mouth. And those scary drills.

So, how can you get over your fear of dentists?

1. Use a sympathetic dentist

By that, I don't mean that you should pick a dentist because they do perfect work (fortunately most all of them do). Make sure you pick a dentist who's aware of your nervousness and has a track record of dealing with people the same as you already. Be prepared to ask friends and work colleagues. Just the same as some doctors have a good bedside manner, it follows that certain dentists work better with nervous patients that other dentists do.

2. Interview your dentist

Don't commit yourself to a dentist prior to talking to them in person - not just the receptionist. Explain that you're afraid of dentists and ask them how they can help you and calm your nerves when you visit for an inspection or to have fillings, crowns, etc.

3. Bring a friend or work colleague

Check with your potential dentists if you can bring someone with you when you have a dentists appointment. Someone who can physically hold your hand while you're being examined. If this isn't allowed then, unless they're the only dentist in town, move on to the next dentist on your list.

4. Try to relax

OK. While you're laying back in that chair and the blood drains from your knuckles, this likely isn't easy. Especially the first few times you try it. But learn how to relax more - this might be meditation, listening to relaxing music, breathing exercises, whatever. Then, when you are helpless in the dentist's chair, recall your relaxation and take a really deep breath. Rather than the quick breaths that you've done previously.

5. Use hypnosis

Yup. This really does work. You can get a specially recorded hypnosis track for fear of dentists and play it wherever and whenever you like. Over a few days or weeks of listening to a fear of dentists hypnosis track, you'll find them becoming less scary.