How to Make A Trip to the Dentist a Little Better

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By JDBRobinson
User-Submitted Article

Article Rating: (3 Ratings)

This Place Can Be Scary, But Not with These Few Tips

The Dentist's office is always finding new ways to torture you and your teeth. Even so, you must go twice a year...so here are some hints to make the whole experience more bearable.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Advil
Ipod or music player
Floss
Toothbrush & Toothpaste
Soft Foods

Step 1

Prepare yourself ahead of time. The day of your appointment, have a nice breakfast and brush your teeth really well. Floss and then brush again. Swish some Listerine if you've got it as well.
Step 2

Prepare for potential pain & swelling. Take an Advil about 45 minutes to an hour before your appointment. This will help minimize any painful procedures and reduce swelling in your gums.
Step 3

Make a mix of songs that are good and loud. You need music that will be heard over a dental planer or drill. Load these onto your iPod or burn a CD to bring with you. Don't forget to bring good head phones. Ear buds work best at the Dentist's office.
Step 4

Politely ask if you may listen to music before the tools come out. Still, take time to be friendly with the hygienist. Remember - they are capable of being gentle - and are more likely to do so when you've been sociable.
Step 5

Close your eyes & listen. Focus on the music and not the work being done in your mouth. Check your body every few minutes to see if you're clinching your arms. Make an effort to relax your body and bring your focus back on the music.
Step 6

Be gentle to your mouth afterwards. Don't expect yourself to eat steak right after. Go with warm, easy to chew soup or something cool like yogurt. If you're feeling pain, take a second Advil to help get you through the rest of your day.

Comments

turtledove said

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on 4/7/2009 I have a dentist appointment in a few days, so this caught my eye! I won't forget the Advil. 5*

GreenGardenChic said

on 8/7/2008 IPOD, I've never thought of it. Great ideas.

JasneJ said

on 7/22/2008 WOW.Great suggestions.I am Super Chicken at the dentist. I pick out my dentist by warning him I may rip the vinyl off the armrest, if they flinch, I leave.