5 Tips to Overcome Dental Anxiety
Experiencing dental anxiety is a prevalent occurrence impacting numerous individuals globally. To effectively manage and prevent its adverse effects on oral and overall health, it's crucial to engage in open communication with your dentist or hygienist regarding your fears and concerns before every appointment. Here are a few tips on how to overcome this anxiety, making your trip to the dentist a pleasant experience, rather than a dreadful one.
1. Communicate With Your Dental Team
Sharing your fears and concerns with your hygienist and dentist allows them to tailor their approach, providing reassurance and support. The team will be aware of what triggers the anxiety, doing all they can to ensure a tranquil visit. By voicing your worries, you enable your dentist to deliver personalized care, prioritizing your comfort during appointments.
2. Bring a Friend
Having a friend or family member tag along to your dentist appointment takes some pressure off of the mind. The presence of an individual that you trust and have a rapport with can distract you from having intrusive thoughts.
3. Breathing Exercises
By focusing on taking deep breaths in and out, you can lower your heart rate and eliminate tension in the muscles. The 4-7-8 breathing method requires an individual to focus on taking prolonged, deep breaths. This rhythmic breathing exercise is used in meditation and yoga, promoting relaxation. Prior to inhalation, exhale all of the air from your lungs. Following this, breathe in softly through your nose for 4 seconds. Hold your breath for 7 seconds, then exhale forcefully through the mouth for 8 seconds. Repeat this cycle approximately four times to notice a reduction in anxiety. If you cannot hold your breath long enough, you may shorten the pattern to 2-3.5-4. The number of seconds is not as vital as keeping the ratio intact.
4-7-8 Breathing Technique4. Muscle Relaxation
Progressive muscle relaxation is known as a deep relaxation technique to control stress and anxiety. It is based on the practice of tensing, or tightening one muscle group at a time, followed by the release of said tension. While inhaling, contract one muscle group (for example, your forehead), for 5 to 10 seconds, then exhale and release the tension. Rest for 10-20 seconds before repeating this with another muscle group.
5. The Beauty of Headphones
Distractions, such as calming music or engaging guided meditation and imagery are known to decrease anxiety. Bringing headphones to the dentist can create a peaceful setting, eliminating the noises that could serve as a trigger. It is known that the tempo of the music you’re listening to can slow down your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing, decreasing your psychobiological stress responses.
AC Dental is Here for You
If you suffer from dental anxiety, you are not alone. It is important to understand that many individuals endure the same struggle, and that there are ways to overcome it. Here at AC Dental, we understand how stressful a visit to the dentist can be and are here to make you feel as comfortable as possible. Call us today at (732) 254-9000 to schedule your next appointment.
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Patient Testimonials
My Uncle referred me to this dentist as he’s a patient himself. I was scared going in as I haven’t visited a dentist in a very long time. Everyone was so professional and caring. They put my mind at ease. The dentist explained everything that I would need done, and it’s a lot, in a way I could understand it. I’m so glad I listened to my Uncle and chose this dental office. I will highly recommend this place if anyone asks me.
Rita C.
AC dental was one of my best dental experiences and my first in NJ. The staff is professional and courteous. Very attentive and listens to the patient. Very important. The Doctor is a star. Explained everything and I felt safe. CW.
Verified Patient
They are very accommodating and made me feel at ease. I hate going to the dentist and avoid it all costs, after my experience here I will actually start sticking to routine appointments. Would definitely recommend them!
Verified Patient
I was very pleased with the professionalism of both the staff and the doctors in AC Dental. The staff was courteous and helpful. The doctor and his assistants were both very knowledgeable as well as helpful. It was a very good experience.
Verified Patient
This is the BEST dental practice I have ever visited! I’m glad I chose AC Dental of East Brunswick for my dental needs because they take pride in providing truly amazing service. The staff is very friendly, professional and make you feel at home. Dr. Ahuja goes above and beyond for his patients and you can tell that he is passionate about helping them achieve optimum health and a beautiful smile. Definitely recommend this practice!!!
Ruchi S.
My family and I have been patients of AC Dental for over ten years. The staff is always friendly, efficient and accommodating in an emergency. Dr Abuja has even made a house call. I would recommend this practice for dental care of the highest quality.
Kylie R.
I rate AC Dental 5 Star/A1 dental cIinic. Dr A and all the staffs are very nice and friendly. They made me feel so comfortable and made my appointment such a breeze and no stress. Very professional and knowledgeable. These crew know what they're doing!
Julio R.
I have been going to AC Dental for about 10 years. They are courteous of your time and always get you in and out. Procedures are done delicately and as painless as possible. The staff is beyond friendly and I often find myself talking to them well after my appointments are over. Being treated like family, is all I can ask for me and my family.
Aaron B.
AC Dental is great! All the employees are very welcoming and i dreaded going to the dentist but they always make me feel comfortable there! The hygenist is amazing! She is very knowledgeable and helpful and great with kids :)
Holly W.
Contact Us
Phone
732-254-9000
Address
300 Route 18
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
Hours
Monday - Thursday: 9am - 5pm
Friday: 9am - 4pm
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