Dental care and oral health information you need
from the Academy of General Dentistry


Saturday, May 18, 2024
Know Your Teeth Academy of General Dentistry Know Your Teeth

InfoBites

Quick Reference

Learn what those dental words mean.

Check out how your teeth and mouth change in every stage of life.

RSS

Feeds

Get dental news feeds delivered directly to your desktop! more...

How Dentists Help Anxious Patients

 
Chapter: How to Stay Calm Before Visits

  • Pick up the phone. Your dentist's office staff has been trained in caring patient services; they will inform you of what to expect and answer your questions to ensure your confidence and comfort during your visit.
  • Relax. When they are nervous, some people tend to hold their breath, which decreases oxygen levels and increases feelings of panic. Focus on breathing regularly & slowly.
  • Eat up. Consuming high-protein foods produces a calming effect, unlike sugary foods.
  • Skip the caffeine. Avoiding caffeine before a dental appointment can make you less anxious.
  • Communicate. Use hand signals to inform the dentist that you are uncomfortable, and talk to your dentist about your specific fears.

Reviewed: January 2012