Does the mere thought of seeing the dentist make you nervous? If so, you are not alone. According to the American Association of Endodontists, more than 15 percent of Americans avoid visiting the dentist because of dental anxiety or fear. At Town Center Dentistry, we regularly see patients who are nervous or scared of undergoing dental treatment. If you're hesitant to visit the dentist, read our tips for easing dental anxiety and fear below.

Distract Yourself

At our state-of-the-art dental office, we offer patients the option of listening to music or watching TV during their treatment so they can stay distracted and comfortable while our trusted team is at work. Our patients also have the option of bringing a friend or family member for moral support.

Try Meditating

Meditation and relaxation exercises are great stress-relievers and can put you in a positive state of mind before and during treatment. Try deep breathing during treatment to keep you relaxed. Or, consider doing some yoga before treatment to help relax your muscles.

Communicate with Your Dentist

Good dentist-patient rapport and communication are key to a successful dental treatment. If you are concerned about your dental procedure, it is best to be vocal about it. Many people are nervous or scared about their dental treatment because they don’t know what to expect. Knowing what will happen during your procedure can help you understand what to expect and keep your anxiety at bay. A good dentist will take the time to answer your questions and explain your dental treatment thoroughly.

Ask Us about Sedation Dentistry

Your safety and comfort are top priorities to us, which is why we provide the option of sedation dentistry to patients who feel nervous or anxious about their dental visit. Sedation dentistry offers several benefits and can be used during a range of dental procedures, from dental cleanings to oral surgery. Our sedation dentistry specialist, Dr. Thomas Gonzales, will work with you to find the best sedation option for you. Learn more about sedation dentistry by scheduling an appointment with us. Please call our Rancho Bernardo office at (858) 521-0000.