Helping A Loved One With Dental Phobia

Whether your loved one is a child or an adult, visits to the dentist can be terrifying for them. Being able to support them is very important for their mental well-being.

A visit to the dentist doesn’t need to a nightmare or an uncomfortable journey. Here are some ways that you can help alleviate dental anxiety:

I. Communicate

Make sure you find a dentist who has good communication skills to build a strong doctor-patient relationship that is based on trust. Seeing the same dentist regularly can help strengthen the bond between patients.

Once your loved one understands that they are in the safe hands of a friendly but professional dentist, they will automatically relax and be less tense.

II. Breathe

Before procedures, deep breathing is proven to calm patients down and reduce their anxiety.

III. Distraction

Dentists often do this during procedures. It’s harder to notice a tiny needle when you’re trying to answer a question. As a family member or friend, you can also use your knowledge of the patient to distract them during treatment.

IV. Tell, Show & Do

This involves the dentist explaining the procedures that are occurring and showing patients the tools before performing any treatment.

If you are accompanying someone for a dental procedure, you can also help them prepare beforehand by telling to them what to expect. This helps the patient anticipate what is going to happen and reduce the fear of the unknown once they’re sitting in that dental chair.

What’s most important is to not let the fear of dentists prevent you or your loved one from having necessary dental work. All of these methods can help you, your child or your family member visit the dentist without fear and maintain a healthy smile.