Most dentists are well trained for the special psychological requirements of dealing with dental anxiety and know exactly how to deal with the situation. This applies to the entire practice team. A friendly and calming practice atmosphere can play a vital role in your comfort.

Is Dental Anxiety Common?

A lot of people have reservations about going to the dentist. Part of being comfortable in the hands of our experts at Danville Family Dentistry is knowing the answers to some typical questions that you might be too nervous to ask. That’s why we will clear a few things up for you in this article.

Does The Dentist Hate Tongue Rings?

While self-expression is wonderful, jewelry doesn’t belong in the mouth. If you already have a tongue ring, that’s okay, and there’s no reason you must remove it. We dislike tongue rings because of their high infection rates.

Tongue rings can cause cracked or chipped teeth, and they can damage your sensitive gum tissue. They can leave scarring and also cause serious bloodborne diseases like hepatitis. Our job is to keep your mouth healthy, and tongue piercings often have poor results.

Is the Dentist Mad When I Cancel My Appointment?

Absolutely not. Your wellbeing is our number one priority, and sometimes things occur that are simply out of your control. However, we do hope you aren’t canceling appointments out of dental anxiety or fear. Once you’ve made the appointment, which is a difficult task in itself for fearful patients, try to keep us on your schedule.

We understand dental anxiety. It’s part of our job. So, believe us when we tell you that worrying about an upcoming dental appointment is far more nerve-wracking than actually coming to see us.

What If I Need to Talk During Treatment?

Before treatment begins, we’ll agree on some hand signals to ensure your comfort. We also check on you often during treatment to make sure you’re feeling okay. There are always ways to communicate with us, even if it’s just a simple facial expression. We’ll never proceed with treatment if it’s causing too much anxiety or discomfort. Remember, you are always in control when you’re in the dentist’s chair.

Can I Eat and Drink Normally Before My Appointment?

We can likely smell your last meal on your breath, and that’s okay. That’s completely normal. But maybe don’t eat a garlic and onion sandwich before your visit. Try to avoid caffeinated drinks, too. The stimulating effect can increase your nervousness. Eat protein-rich foods before treatment. Unlike sugary and carbohydrate foods, they have a calming effect.

We Can Help You with Dental Anxiety

Trust and communication help reduce stress and ensure optimal results for your oral health. One of the most critical factors in decreasing dental anxiety is communication between the dentist and the patient. If you’re nervous, let us know.

In our experience, it’s normal for people to feel a little apprehensive when visiting a doctor or dentist. However, if the fear goes so far that the patient no longer wants to be treated, you might consider seeking an open discussion with the dentist before starting treatment. If you know what to expect before the visit, you’ll feel calmer and more able to face the situation.

To talk to us about your dental anxiety or to make an appointment, call us today at 317-745-4400.

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Disclaimer: The information included in this article is for educational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.