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Many people worry about going to the dentist. You may be very nervous and may actually feel sick to your stomach. Some people become so nervous that they just don't go to the dentist. But this can lead to serious problems, including infected gums and teeth, difficulty chewing, and lack of self-confidence because of bad teeth or bad breath.
To help get over being nervous about the dentist, it is helpful to understand why you may be nervous. Reasons include:
To help feel less nervous about a dental visit, try the following:
Tell your dentist that you are nervous, and try to explain why. This way your dentist can do everything possible to put you at ease.
If you understand the steps of getting a filling, for example, you may feel less nervous about it. Ask your dentist to tell you when they are moving from one step in a procedure to another step.
Early morning, late afternoon, or Saturday may be the best time, as you may not have to worry about missing school or work.
If the sound of a drill bothers you, ask your dentist if they have music and headphones. If not, bring your own audio player and headphones.
As you sit in the chair, try deep breathing or thinking about a favourite activity or place.
If you talk to your dentist and feel that they are not listening or not making an effort to help you feel at ease, try another dentist. Tell your friends about your fears, and ask them about their dentists.
Current as of: June 24, 2023
Author: Healthwise StaffClinical Review BoardAll Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review BoardAll Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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