For some people, the thought of visiting the dentist causes extreme stress or anxiety. Receiving proper oral care is important for good health, so if you have a fear of the dentist it is in your best interest to find ways to cope with your phobia to ensure that your teeth and mouth remain healthy. There are a number of ways to deal with a dental phobia; the next time you need to visit the dentist, consider the following tips:

1. Distract Yourself

One of the worst things you can do when you get stressed out by visiting the dentist is focus on what your dentist is doing. You can alleviate a lot of stress by trying to distract yourself during the procedures. Consider listing to music with headphones; this will take your mind off of what is going on, while also blocking out any sounds that you find unpleasant. Some dentists even have overhead TVs in their treatment rooms, so you can focus on watching television instead of thinking about dental treatments.

2. Learn Relaxation Techniques

While many relaxation techniques, such as yoga, can't be done at the dentist's office, other things such as controlled breathing or meditation can be very effective in helping you calm down and feel more comfortable. These activities will help slow down your heart rate and loosen up your muscles, which will likely make you feel better overall.

3. Visit a Dentist Who Specializing in Treating Fearful Patients

Dental phobias are actually quite common, and some dentists are now specializing in treating patients who are fearful of visiting the dentist. In many cases, these dental offices are designed to be soothing, and not resemble a typical dental office. The key is removing the smells, sounds, and sights that act as a trigger for people who have dental phobias. Dentists who treat fearful patients typically work slowly and will let you know exactly what they are doing so you don't experience any unpleasant surprises.

4. Consider Sedation Dentistry

If the mere thought of going to the dentist makes you panic, sedation dentistry may be an excellent option. Sedation dentistry involves using inhalants, oral medication, or I.V. sedatives to help you relax during your treatment. There are various levels of sedation, from light to deep, and most patients do not remember all of the details of what happened during their appointment. The use of sedation dentistry can ensure that you get the dental care that you need without having to deal with fear or anxiety. To learn more, visit http://www.liperioimplants.com/services/sedation.aspx. 

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