A phobia is defined as an irrational fear. Not everyone will confess their dental fears to their doctor, but sometimes if you tell the office ahead of time, they can take some measures to make your visit as smooth as possible. When I was around 16, my mother told me I was being having all four impacted wisdom teeth taken out. I think I am much happier being the one to take these out on someone else then the one having them removed. All four is a lot at once but I am happy that it was done early on when healing time is the fastest and the roots were much smaller and easier to remove. It only takes one positive dental visit to turn around some traumatic visits. Dentistry has come a long way since those days of old school dentists saying, “Sit down, shut up, you’re numb enough kid.” I was taught that stress only comes from things out of your control. Well, I have some good news… you are in full control of your mouth. Come up with a hand signal to serve as a stop sign anytime you need a break. Below is a list I compiled of some common stressors that my patients have shared with me:
Fees: Many offices are willing to work to find a plan that works for your financial situation. Check out some different dental insurance plans, nearby dental academic institutions or ask if the office offers Care Credit or payment plans!
Deep cleanings: Dentists may over local anesthesia for your own comfort, but if you really are scared of the mini pinch of the needle then you have the right to refuse at any time. We just hate seeing the pain on our patient’s faces without numbing solution, we are not in the torture business contrary to what people may think!
Fillings: Cavities don’t form overnight and moderation of sugar and carbohydrates is the key to prevention of cavities. Keep drinking water (tap is best because it contains tooth-strengthening minerals called fluoride!) available and a toothbrush nearby for brushing after any candy-consumption this Halloween!
Root canals: Many times I hear patients say that, “a friend told me that root canals are painful.” They should really not be any more uncomfortable than a simple filling. If there is an infection at the root tip, it may be difficult for the local anesthesia to sink in. The doctor may need to prescribe a course of Antibiotics or try a stronger anesthetic.
Crowns: Ask your dentist ahead of time what the appointment will consist of and how many appointments so you know what to expect each step of the way. To minimize appointments you should ask if your dentist is able to do any single day crowns with a milling unit or if it needs to be made in the lab for a few weeks.
Extractions: Focus on your breathing throughout the procedure and expect the sensation of pressure. Afterwards, the bleeding will slow if you bite on gauze or a moist tea bag. Chew on the opposite side. And of course, you MUST avoid smoking, spitting and sucking through straws to decrease the potential for “dry socket.”
Orthographic jaw surgery: You may not feel like yourself for several weeks during recovery. People may have a hard time understanding you because of the swelling, but don’t become frustrated. It will also be more difficult to eat so try to find some smoothies that you enjoy! Write down some questions for your surgeons to mentally prepare ahead of time.
Impressions/gagging: Don’t worry about a little drool while the material sets, just ask for some napkins before if the thought makes you unconfutable. Try to sit as straight as possible or leans little forward. Think about something pleasant or focus on something pleasing in the room.
Gum or “Periodontal” surgery: Have a crummy towel ready for your pillow because some blood may end up in your saliva. Also have some ice ready to minimize swelling. Follow the doctors post-op instructions and try to not play with the periodontal pack until it falls out because it acts as a Bandaid to keep food and debris from lodging in that site.
Like with all these procedures, the doctor will check in to make sure you are doing ok. Post-op visits are necessary for surgeries to check healing, debride/clean wounds, remove or check sutures and make sure there’s no infection. Start every day with a smile. Go Cubbies!!
-L