Open Communication
If you suffer from a fear of going to the dentist, let your dentist know how you feel. If possible, tell them why you feel the way you feel about general dentistry. Did you have a bad experience in the past that you're concerned will be repeated? By letting your dentist know, they will be able …show more content…
By making an effort to get to know your dentist, and build a solid foundation that will lead to a trustful relationship, the fear will decrease over time until you find yourself no longer dreading the dental chair.
Schedule Non-Procedure Appointments at First
Starting with a new dentist slowly can help to alleviate some of the fear general dentistry can cause. Instead of waiting until you have a dental problem to see a dentist, build a relationship through non-procedure appointments, such as a basic exam with or without a cleaning, or a consultation. Most dentists understand the need for some patients to start slowly, particularly if they are aware of the patients fears and anxiety.
Preventive Care Can Go a Long Way
One of the main reasons people fear the dentist is due to past traumatic experiences often related to a procedure that could have been prevented from regular dental exams. By maintaining a healthy smile, you can prevent the need for more invasive procedures and the stress they can