Nervous About Your Dental Appointment? Here’s How You Can Prepare

If you’re nervous — or even fearful — about seeing the dentist, you’re far from alone. In fact, 13-24% of people worldwide fear going to the dentist.

Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to make your experience more pleasant. In this blog, Joseph Yousefian, DMD, of Yousefian Orthodontics for Children, Teens, and Adults explains how you can relieve some of your jitters.

Tell the dentist

Dentists understand that some of their patients may be nervous. Don’t think that you have to just “suck it up” and pretend you’re not feeling nervous or afraid. Instead, tell Dr. Yousefian that you’re feeling nervous, and he and his staff will do everything possible to help make you feel more comfortable.

And, if you want to take your mind off it, you may be able to watch TV or listen to a podcast on your phone. Furthermore, if it’s been a long time since your last visit, let us know and we’ll allow for extra time.

Break up your visits

If you know you need a lot of dental work, you may be tempted to try and get it all done in the same visit so you can get it over with. However, in many cases, splitting up the work over several visits may make the process more comfortable and tolerable.

Plan enough time

When you make the appointment, ask how long the appointment is expected to take. Make sure you allow enough time for the appointment, especially if you’re trying to take time off from work or school. Being rushed might add to any feelings of nervousness that you already have.

If it’s been a while since you’ve been to the dentist, you might want to schedule an appointment toward the end of the day. That will give the dentist or hygienist extra time to work if needed and will allow you to go home right afterward.

Keep your mouth healthy

The best way to have the fewest and shortest visits possible is to keep your mouth as healthy as you can. Brush and floss your teeth regularly. The better you take care of your teeth, the less likely it is that you’ll have problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease. Don’t just brush and floss your teeth the night before an appointment. Establish good habits now and keep them.

If you need a dental checkup, or if you need dental work done, we can help. Dr. Yousefian prioritizes comfort for all his patients. So if you’re nervous about going to the dentist, he’ll do everything he can to help you take your appointment in stride. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone with Yousefian Orthodontics for Children, Teens, and Adults today.