Coping With Dental Phobia
Going to the dentist is less painful than it used to be. So is talking to your dentist.
Putting off a dentist visit because of fear? Hershkowitz has these suggestions for talking to your dentist. If he doesn't respond or comply with your requests, find another one.
Talk it over. "A good dentist should begin a visit by asking you open-ended questions about what bothers you so he or she knows what not to do," Hershkowitz says. A simple "Tell me about any difficulties you've had during past dentist visits" may help you open up and relax. "If you talk about it first, it will remove the anxiety."
Be prepared. Ask your dentist in advance what you can expect during your visit and how procedures, such as injections, are handled. "There's nothing wrong with asking the doctor, "What will you do to let me know I'm in control?'" says Hershkowitz.
Give a cue. Establish a sign, such as raising your hand, to let your dentist know if you're uncomfortable and need him to stop working immediately.
Coping With Dental Phobia
Going to the dentist is less painful than it used to be. So is talking to your dentist.
Tips for Dental Phobia
Putting off a dentist visit because of fear? Hershkowitz has these suggestions for talking to your dentist. If he doesn't respond or comply with your requests, find another one.
Talk it over. "A good dentist should begin a visit by asking you open-ended questions about what bothers you so he or she knows what not to do," Hershkowitz says. A simple "Tell me about any difficulties you've had during past dentist visits" may help you open up and relax. "If you talk about it first, it will remove the anxiety."
Be prepared. Ask your dentist in advance what you can expect during your visit and how procedures, such as injections, are handled. "There's nothing wrong with asking the doctor, "What will you do to let me know I'm in control?'" says Hershkowitz.
Give a cue. Establish a sign, such as raising your hand, to let your dentist know if you're uncomfortable and need him to stop working immediately.
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