If you have a fear of the dentist, you are not alone. By some of the most conservative estimates, 1 in 11 people in the United States has dental anxiety. (Less conservative estimate put that as high as 50 percent.)

We are well aware of this at Martins Dental Partners, which is why we put a lot of effort into creating a relaxing atmosphere for our patients. We know how important regular dental care is, but that’s only beneficial if you feel comfortable making an appointment.

With that in mind, today we want to discuss three ways you can learn to manage your anxiety about dental procedures. Keep reading. Then call our Beverly, MA dental office 978-288-1946 to learn more about us or to make an appointment.

We hope to see you soon.

1. Find A Dentist With Advanced Technology

The first step you can take if finding a dental practice that is using tools of modern dentistry that make visits easier.

At our office, you will find that we have incorporated many of these technologies into our everyday practice. We’ll give you a few examples.

First, we use digital X-rays. These use just a fraction of the radiation that old film X-rays did, making them safer for everyone involved. And since the images are digital, we can look at them almost as soon as they are taken. This speeds up diagnosis and makes it easier to explain what we are seeing.

Intraoral cameras give us another way to take a close look at what is happening inside your mouth. These tools are another way we can find problems in the earliest stages when treatments are simple and highly effective.

You also should know that we offer cone beam computed tomography. This produces what you could call three-dimensional X-rays. This kind of imaging is invaluable both for diagnosing problems and planning treatments.

2. Distract Yourself

For some people, thinking about dental care can be as stressful or more stressful than a particular procedure. This is why we offer some great distractions when you visit our practice.

If you would prefer to think about anything other than a dental cleaning, be sure to ask to borrow some headphones from us (or feel free to bring your own).

Many patients find it comforting to listen to music. This can do two things. First, it gives you something else to focus on while you are receiving your care. Second, it can block out the sounds of dental equipment.

We also have televisions in our patient treatment rooms. Watching a favorite show or movie can make it easier to get through your appointment.

3. Try Sedation Dentistry

If neither of the previous options works for you, you always can consider dental sedation.

At our practice, we offer different levels, starting with inhaled sedation (a.k.a. laughing gas). This option keeps you calm and pain-free during your visit.

Oral sedation is a somewhat stronger option. It too will keep your relaxed and pain-free, but its effects last longer, so you will need a trusted friend or family member to take you home.

Find What Works for You

We work hard to get to know our patients at Martins Dental Partners. This way, we can plan your visits so they are as relaxing as they can be for you. It’s also why we encourage you to discuss why you might feel anxious with our compassionate team. Together, we can make accommodations that can help you get the oral care that you deserve.

To learn more, contact us online or call 978-288-1946 today!