Your dentist takes dental anxiety very seriously. This affliction is real, common, and easily treated in a variety of ways. There is no reason to avoid the dentist because of fear when there are so many options to gently guide you through every treatment, from basic preventive care to emergency dental procedures.
Zen Out at Your Louisville Dentist Office
What makes you feel better? What items relax you no matter what? For many people, creature comforts include stuffed animals and favorite foods. During your dental treatment, you may be surprised to discover what your Louisville dentist’s office is ready to provide, if desired:
- Cozy blanket
- Warm mittens
- Heated and scented neck pillow
- Hot Keurig tea or coffee
- Juice or spring water
- Scented hot hand towel
Beverages before dental work? Yes, sometimes, especially if a hot drink is a calming device that helps you zen out. When you aren’t feeling peaceful enough, we will do whatever possible to help you get settled, melt away tension, and ease into your procedure.
Get in the Zone During Dental Procedures
There is no reason to try to muscle through dental visits when it is easy for your Louisville dentist to relieve dental anxiety during the procedure itself. Whether you’re getting a teeth cleaning, a cavity filled, a porcelain crown, or investing in long overdue cosmetic dentistry, a carefully cultivated zen experience can prevent your anxiety from skyrocketing.
- Block noise. If the sounds of the dental drill and other tools give you anxiety, ask for noise cancelling headphones.
- Listen to music. Muffling dental sounds is one option but listening to music that calms you is another. Pick your own playlist or cue up an audio book or podcast.
- Watch television. If movies or television are your preferred soothers, choose your entertainment. Keep an eye on the overhead screen to distract from the task at hand.
- Use aromatherapy. Scents are powerful. Essential oils like lavender and mint help with relaxation through aromatherapy.
Communicate and Relax
Dentists don’t always know if a patient suffers from dental anxiety. Sure, they can tell once you get in the chair, but it’s better to make your feelings known before any work begins. When you speak about your hesitations, we can outline the best way to guide you into your dental work, so you feel confident and relieve dental anxiety.
If distractions alone aren’t enough, ask about sedation dentistry. Inhaled sedation manages both anxiety and pain. Breathing in this safe, trusted method without concerns about aftereffects helps patients accept the work they need or want to undergo.
Don’t be embarrassed about your fears. Dental care is a difficult experience for many people, but there are plenty of options to get healthy, strong, and beautiful teeth. Your Louisville dentist can help you overcome dental anxiety.
The Compassionate Way to Relieve Dental Anxiety
Ask about the Dental Zen Experience at Natural Smiles in Louisville, KY. Dr. Kiran Gill has reimagined dental care to soothe patients’ minds, prioritize oral health, and provide a compassionate approach to dentistry. Contact our dental team to begin the journey to a healthier, more beautiful smile.