Putnam Bright Smile Dentistry, Dentist in Brewster, NY 10509

WE WELCOME NEW PATIENTS,

EMERGENCIES, AND SECOND OPINIONS

Book Online Call (845) 999-1181

9 Tips for Making Your Dentist Appointment Bearable (Even If You Hate Going to the Dentist)

Putnam Bright Smile Dentistry • July 3, 2019

Does the thought of going to the dentist stop you from going? Don't let fear of the dentist stop you. Here's how to make your dentist appointment comfortable.

dentist appointment

 

Somewhere between 9% and 15% of all Americans don't like going to the dentist because of anxiety or fear.

 

That's over 30 million people that may not get their regular checkups and cleanings due to some serious stress.

 

Does this sound like you? If so, you are in luck!

 

Get some dentist appointment anxiety and fear tips below to make your next dental visit more comfortable.

 

Making the Dentist Appointment Manageable

 

How can you stop the dread from creeping up for your next appointment? Keep reading to find out.

 

1. Talk About How You Are Feeling

 

A lot of us don't like to talk about what we feel because it seems to make us feel weak or too vulnerable.

 

If you let the dental staff know what is going on, you are more likely to get some extra help and the dentist will know how to work with you better to get the care you need. They can't read your mind, so be sure that you are giving them the information they need.

 

2. Listen to Relaxing Music

 

Some people find that it is the sound of the tools in their mouth that really freak them out at the dental office.

 

If this happens to be you, consider asking your dentist if it is okay for you to listen to some music with headphones in while the exam takes place. This can help you to relax and focus on something else.

 

You also might find that listening to some music before the actual appointment can help you be more calm as well, so it is worth trying out.

 

3. Develop and Use Some Hand Signals

 

A great way to communicate with the dentist while they are working on your mouth is with your hands. You can't speak very easily when they are doing their job, but you can still show them when you need them to stop or when something hurts with your hands.

 

This is a really powerful way to show that you are taking the appointment into your own hands and can stand up for yourself.

 

4. Get a Good Dentist

 

Always choose a dentist that you trust and believe will do the best job possible for you. Even better if they tell you that they are willing to work with anxious or scared patients!

 

It may be helpful to find some high quality reviews for dentists in your favorite practice or even talk with family and friends about your concerns.

 

5. Pay Attention to Your Breathing

 

Something that a lot of people don't realize when they are nervous is that they may hold their breath. This ends up decreasing the amount of oxygen in the system and therefore increasing the amount of nervousness a person is feeling!

 

Before your dentist appointment, try to practice some calming medication exercises or even simple breathing exercises . These can be helpful to practice while you are getting ready to go into your appointment because they may calm you down.

 

When concentrating on your breathing, just remember that slow and regular breathing is an effective way to reduce the amount of stress you are feeling.

 

6. Ask for Numbing Cream

 

A lot of patients that struggle with fear or anxiety will request that numbing cream be used on their gums for the procedures. You may even be able to get an injection.

 

This helps to make sure that you can't feel everything as directly, so it doesn't feel quite as uncomfortable as you are used to.

 

Something to be aware of is that not all insurance plans will cover this type of request if it is not considered necessary, so be sure to discuss this with your dental team before proceeding.

 

7. Get a Step-by-Step Rundown

 

When the dentist just starts poking around in your mouth and you don't know what's going on, it can be stressful. This is especially true if you already don't want to be there!

 

One way to help yourself be calmer is by getting a complete list of everything that the dentist plans to do. Ask the dentist what they plan to do first and what the sequence of events is going to be.

 

You may even want them to tell you what they are doing as they are doing it and this should be a perfectly reasonable request. As the patient, you have the right to know exactly what is happening and how the dentist plans to care for you.

 

8. Pick the Right Appointment Time

 

During the middle of the day or even on a weekend are typically the best times to set an appointment that you know may be stressful.

 

If you go during high points, like the morning or the end of a workday, you may find that it is much busier and anxiety-inducing. You might even feel rushed!

 

Choosing an appointment time that is less chaotic can definitely ease some of the anxiety that going to the dentist can bring up.

 

9. Reward Yourself for Facing the Dental Appointment

 

A great idea for anyone that may be dealing with the dread of going to the dentist is to come up with something fun to do afterward.

 

Maybe it is something like going to the movie theater or buying yourself some new clothing. Either way, be sure to have a plan of what you want to do afterward and maybe even get your ticket before the dentist appointment.

 

The trick with this tip is to only allow yourself to accept the reward if you actually follow through with the appointment. Consider having someone else help hold you accountable and this could be a great motivator.

 

Ready for Your Next Dentist Appointment?

 

These tips are simple ways for you to make your next visit to the dentist a little bit less stressful and disorderly.

 

Make sure to speak with your dentist regarding any concerns you have to be sure that you are getting the highest quality of care. They want to help you!

 

Now that you know some ways to make the dentist appointment a little easier to swallow, consider

contacting the dental office to make an appointment.

emergency dentistry brewster ny
By Putnam Bright Smile Dentistry December 23, 2024
Having a dental emergency? You'll need reliable and effective treatment. Take a look at this guide on emergency dentistry in Brewster NY.
A female dentist is examining a young girl 's teeth in a dental office.
By Putnam Bright Smile Dentistry November 17, 2024
Achieve a healthier smile with a dental routine that helps protect your oral health. Discover how to get started with your dentist in Brewster NY.
A woman is smiling while sitting in a dental chair.
By Putnam Bright Smile Dentistry October 21, 2024
If you're looking for a Brewster dentist, it's important to find one you can trust. Check out this guide for some key tips on finding the right dentist for you.
A woman is pointing up at a bunch of question marks.
By Putnam Bright Smile Dentistry September 23, 2024
Find the top seven questions to ask when choosing a dentist office in Brewster, NY. Make an informed decision for your dental care. Click here to learn more!
Dental Office in Brewster NY
By Putnam Bright Smile Dentistry August 21, 2024
Find out what is included in a checkup at a dental office in Brewster, NY. Stay informed about your dental health. Contact us to schedule an appointment!
cavity between molars
By Putnam Bright Smile Dentistry July 29, 2024
Learn the causes and treatments for a cavity between molars to keep your teeth healthy. Get expert care at Putnam Bright Smile today.
Emergency Dentist Brewster
By Putnam Bright Smile Dentistry June 24, 2024
Need an emergency dentist in Brewster? Our experts provide fast and effective care. Contact us today for quick dental relief!
putnam dental
By Putnam Bright Smile Dentistry May 28, 2024
At Putnam Dental, families can find excellent care for their teeth and oral health. Here is what your Brewster, NY dentist can do for your family.
A man in an orange jacket is smiling for the camera.
By Putnam Bright Smile Dentistry April 19, 2024
You have options when it comes to your dental treatment plan. Read here for a comparison of a dental implant vs crown to find out the difference.
failed root canal symptoms
By Putnam Bright Smile Dentistry March 31, 2024
Don't let failed root canal symptoms go unnoticed. Detect the signs early to ensure timely treatment and prevent complications.
Show More
Share by: