If you’re ready for some tips on how to overcome dental anxiety, read on in this blog from Altoona Smiles.
Why Do Some People Avoid Visiting The Dentist?
It’s not completely out of the ordinary for someone to avoid visiting the dentist. Understandably so, many people delay visiting the dentist. More and more, various reasons for dental anxiety are researched and made apparent. These reasons include fear of pain, previous negative experiences with dentists, generalized anxiety disorder, fear of needles and drilling, and worries about the side effects of anesthesia or that it may not work correctly.
At Altoona Smiles, we firmly believe we are your best choice for compassionate and patient dental care. Below, we offer general tips for our patients and for the benefits of others as well.
What Are Ways In Which I Can Make My Dentist’s Appointment More Comfortable?
- Use the buddy system. A friend or family member can be great company if you’re feeling nervous about a trip to the dentist’s office.
- Take your mind off of things and listen to music or enjoy videos on your phone as you wait.
- Choose the best dentist for your needs: such as the team at Altoona Smiles. At Altoona Smiles, we’re happy to answer any questions you might have about treatment. And, don’t be afraid to let your dental hygienist or dentist know if you are experiencing any discomfort.
- Get to the dentist’s office on time–but not more early than necessary. This way, you won’t need to endure a long wait before your appointment.
Why Is It Important To Visit My Dentist For Check-Ups And Professional Cleanings?
You might not know this, but the American Dental Association recommends visiting the dentist twice a year (or once every 6 months). Taking preventive care of your teeth and gums is critical to your oral and overall health. Neglecting to receive necessary treatments due to dental phobia can cause a range of problems, including stained teeth, gum recession, cavities, and even tooth loss. It is important to keep up with regular dental visits in order to maintain good oral hygiene.
Putting off dental care can be an understandable consequence of dental anxiety, however, this poses a serious threat to both your oral and overall health. Without regular examinations, underlying conditions such as TMJ, sleep apnea, and even oral cancer may go undetected or untreated. The risks of avoiding dental care simply are not worth it.
Even if you don’t have a toothache, it is still in your best interests to visit your dentist twice a year. Not only can a dentist treat any dental health issues you may have missed, but they can also help to prevent them. Professional cleanings and check-ups are the best way to ward off major problems or to identify them early. During a professional clean, hardened tartar is scraped away from both above and below your gums, aiding in the prevention of gingivitis. Additionally, dentists can spot cavities in their early stages, stopping it from getting worse.
The Very Best Dental Care In Altoona, IA
At Altoona Smiles, we strive to provide the best in dental care for every age and stage of life. Whether it’s time for your twice-a-year dentist’s check-up, or if you wonder how you could benefit from certain dentistry treatments, call the experts at Altoona Smiles. For patients in the Altoona, IA area, Altoona Smiles is glad to serve all your cosmetic as well as family and restorative dentistry needs. Call 515-200-1299 to ask about how we can help you on your smile journey or schedule a visit today.
