How to Go to the Dentist When You're Afraid of the Dentist

It's common to have some level of anxiety or fear about going to the dentist. When the fear becomes so great that you avoid the dentist at all costs, there are a few ways to make going to the dentist far less upsetting.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Find phone numbers for dentists in your area.
   
   If you live in a small town, you should expand the area in which you're looking. You'll want several choices and that may mean you have to drive a distance for your dental care.

2. Tell the truth.
   
   Tell the person who answers the phone that you suffer from severe dental phobia. Explain that you are looking for a dentist who specializes in patients with your problem so that you can establish care with them.

3. Make them explain.
   
   It's not enough for the receptionist to say their office takes care of people who are afraid of the dentist all the time. Ask how they care for them. What does that mean? What special steps do they take to treat patients with dental phobia?

4. Ask the sixty-four dollar question.
   
   "Does this dentist use sedation dentistry?" With sedation dentistry, you will be treated in the dentist's office, but they will use one of several methods of sedating you. You will be able to respond to directions and are not technically asleep, but you'll be completely calm and relaxed.
   
   Many dentists who specialize in sedation dentistry no longer have to stick you with an IV to sedate you. You actually take one pill about an hour prior to your visit and no IV is needed!

5. Phone a friend.
   
   You'll need a friend to help out before your initial visit. Ask the receptionist to have all the necessary paper work ready so that a friend can pick it up for you. That will prevent you from having to sit in the office longer than you have to when you arrive.
   
   On the day of your sedation dentistry visit, you'll also need a friend to drive you and pick you up.

Tips & Warnings

• Google "Sedation Dentistry" in your area for help in finding a dentist near you.
• No matter how terrified you are, sedation dentistry is truly a wonderful solution.
• Most dentists who specialize in sedation dentistry also go the extra mile to make sure your fears are minimized. Warm blankets, ear phones, TV - they work very hard so that you're not afraid.
• If a dentist is unpleasant or short tempered with you, don't go back. There are too many kind dentists, so don't give your money to one who isn't.
• Sedation dentists are very used to seeing people who have serious problems with their teeth, so don't be embarrassed. There is nothing in your mouth they haven't seen before.
• Don't wait to see a dentist. Some dental problems can even lead to cardiovascular diseases.

Resources

• Find a Dentist at the American Dental Association