Use these strategies for a calmer, more relaxed dental visit

Do you experience anxiety or fear at the thought of visiting a dentist? If so, you are not alone. Anxiety is one of the number one reasons why patients delay dental treatment or do not visit their dentist on a regular basis. Fox Lake, IL dentists Dr. Tom Prendergast and Dr. Caroline Shepherd are committed to helping their patients feel more at ease throughout their dental visit and would like to offer some strategies for combatting anxiety at the dentist.

• Share your anxiety with your dentist. Drs. Prendergast and Shepherd are dedicated to their patients and will take the necessary steps to make sure that you feel as comfortable as possible. Sometimes, simply sharing your thoughts can make you more relaxed.
• Schedule your appointment during the least stressful part of your day/week.  This time varies among different people, but if you do not feel rushed or under pressure, your visit will be much more pleasant.
• If the sound of the hand piece or dental instruments is the source of your anxiety, consider bringing headphones to your visit and listening to your favorite music or an audio book. Your fears may subside once you create a more calming and relaxing treatment environment.

Aside from the strategies mentioned above, it is important that you make regular visits to the dentist. Maintaining good oral hygiene defends against dental diseases and lowers the potential need for invasive dental treatment later. Regular dental visits are necessary to help spot oral health problems in the early stages, when treatment is more likely to be simpler and more affordable. Continuity of care is important in medicine and dentistry alike, and for this reason, both Dr. Prendergast and Dr. Shepherd strive to build lasting relationships with their patients and encourage their satisfaction with treatment and likelihood for return.