Whether we’re thinking about spiders, heights or even the dark, most of us live with some form of anxiety, but it’s our worry over a visit to the dentist that one charity says could really be putting our health at risk and they are determined to help us overcome it.
New research by the Oral Health Foundation and Oral-B has revealed as many as two thirds of us Brits (67%) admit to being apprehensive when it comes to visiting our dentist for a check-up1.
The poll shows that a third of us fear pain and discomfort, which is the biggest single reason behind our nerves (33%).
As part of National Smile Month, a charity initiative to raise awareness about the importance of our oral health, campaigners are looking to reassure us that there is nothing to be nervous about on our next visit and have set out several ways that we can use to help us overcome any anxiety we may have.
Communication is key
“The first way to address any worry over pain is simply to speak to our dentist about your anxiety,” says Dr Uchenna Okoye.
“Dentists are well trained to deal with anxious patients and will take their time to make sure we are at ease before any treatment. Speak to friends and family to see who they trust and recommend and make sure us find a dentist who is most likely to put us at greater ease.”
Ease your way into treatment
“By making regular visits to the dentist we can become more familiar with the surroundings. This will make us more comfortable if we do eventually need treatment. Start gradually with a check-up and clean and polish, then work up to more extensive treatment once a trust and rapport has been made with the dentist.
“Agree a ‘stop now – I need a break’ sign with the dentist. It can be as simple as pointing our finger, and will help us feel more in control.”
Be an early bird
“Picking an appointment time early in the morning can do wonders for us. It means we have less time to dwell on any worries and take a friend or family member with us to an appointment.
“The dentist won’t mind if they accompany us throughout the check-up or treatment and they can reassure and support us along the way.”
Music makes us more mellow
“Try taking a personal stereo to listen to music during the visit. I’ve had plenty of patients who enjoy listening to their favourite soundtracks during appointments and it really does help put them at ease, taking their mind off any worries.”
Prevention is better than the cure
“Finally, and the best way to overcome any dental anxiety, is simply to look after our oral health.
“It’s important for us to understand that more than 90% of dental problems are entirely avoidable with a good oral health routine and prevention is much better than treatment.
“It only takes a few minutes each day and will help protect you from most oral health problems.”
