How can I relax during dental cleanings?

Is fear or anxiety keeping you away from seeing your dentist? Many people put off routine dental cleanings because they feel anxious or nervous about visiting the dentist. It is a common problem for many adults and kids. However, regular dental cleanings with our team at Byers Station Dental in Chester Springs, PA are essential for good oral hygiene. Besides getting your teeth professionally cleaned, these bi-annual appointments allow your dentist to look at what's going on with your teeth so issues like gingivitis or cavities can be treated early. So, is there any way of getting over dental anxiety to maintain a healthy smile?

Are regular dental cleanings important for my oral health?

Routine preventive dental care services, or dental cleanings, are often covered by most dental insurance plans. To get a better idea of how regular dental cleanings impact your oral health and even overall general health, here are some top reasons to keep up with your visits:

• Polish tooth enamel for a brighter, healthier smile
• Reduce or remove plaque and tartar for fresher breath
• Minimize the risk of oral disease
• Reduce the risk of oral problems, like gum disease, cavities, or tooth decay
• Identify and treat oral problems early to avoid more extensive treatments down the road
• Support general health and wellness
• Receive personalized oral healthcare instructions to maintain good dental health between visits

Why do I have dental anxiety?

If you have a fear about visiting the dentist, you are not alone. There are many reasons why men and women, and even kids, have anxiety before routine dental cleanings. Some of the common ones are:

• Fear of pain
• Don't like shots or injections
• Feeling of helplessness or loss of control when sitting in a dental chair
• Loss of personal space with a dentist or hygienist

How can I overcome dental anxiety?

There are several ways to make going to the dentist a bit easier. Don't be afraid to tell your dentist about your dental anxiety. Share any previous experiences or agree to a signal, like raising your hand, to let your dentist know you need a break during an exam or procedure. Patients can also use deep breathing exercises or visualize themselves relaxing at the beach during routine dental cleanings.

If you feel nervous about receiving dental care, our team at Byers Station Dental in Chester Springs, PA offers nitrous oxide sedation, a common technique to further enhance a patient's comfort level. It is administered through a small mask that fits over the nose. As the gas is inhaled, a feeling of warmth and comfortableness will take over the body, allowing patients to relax. When the dental cleaning and exam is complete, the nitrous oxide gas will begin to wear off almost immediately. As a result, patients can drive and resume their normal daily activities after leaving our office.

The secret to maintaining and achieving a healthy smile begins with routine dental cleanings. Talking about your dental anxiety beforehand helps determine what you need to feel less nervous and more comfortable during your appointment. If you are putting off a visit to your dentist, reach out to our skilled team at Byers Station Dental in Chester Springs, PA. Our team understands that many patients feel nervous when visiting the dentist and are dedicated to figuring out what strategies you need for your next appointment to help ease your dental anxiety to strengthen your smile. To learn more about what happens during a dental cleaning at Byers Station Dental and ways to make your next appointment a little easier, contact our office today.