Not wanting to go to the dentist is a very common feeling and becoming nervous or anxious about a trip to the dentist’s chair is often enough to let some people talk themselves out of going at all.
This, of course, is a mistake. The longer you put it off, the worse your dental problems could potentially be, which will make the inevitable trip to that chair worse than the original problem.
Let’s look at some of the common reasons why people have anxiety about dental visits, and specifically about dental implant procedures.
First, the fear of a dentist visit is common but unfounded. In fact, some of the reasons people suffer this anxiety are rooted in the subconscious mind. For example, human beings are designed to keep their breathing passages free. This is why panic is a typical reaction when someone starts to drown.
Believe it or not, this self-preservation instinct is triggered by the dentist doing his job. By sticking various tools inside your mouth and leaning in close to do the best job he can for you, this deeply rooted fear is triggered. You’re still able to breathe, but your subconscious mind isn’t convinced. Therefore, it triggers anxiety.
Another common reason people dislike the dentist is sound related. Just the noise a dental drill makes is enough to drive some people up the wall. Luckily, this is an easy problem to deal with, thanks to a specialized invention that’s recently become popular: earbuds.
Your dentist will not mind in the least if you want to wear earbuds or headphones to block out the noises that add to your discomfort. Pop your favorite music on, and your visit will be over before you know it.
Implants have an additional set of anxiety-inducing elements, the most common driven by the natural fear of the unknown. As a surgical procedure, you may have preconceived ideas about the length of time it will entail, when in fact replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant will only take approximately an hour.
There is one thing you can do to alleviate your fear and anxiety that will help you cope with any of these fears or any others you have about getting dental implants: stop thinking about being nervous.
This may sound easier than you think, but simply relaxing and deciding to “go with the flow” will go a long way toward reducing or even eliminating your anxiety. You can easily convince yourself that it’s going to be a horrible experience.
Talking to your oral and maxillofacial surgeon at Maxillovendôme and asking all your questions will help you understand that this is a very common procedure and reduce your anxiety.
Remember, the Maxillovendôme’s team is there for you, your health and well-being. Trust them and enjoy your new smile!
