Dental Anxiety: How to Overcome the Fear of Going to the Dentist
Dental Anxiety: How to Overcome the Fear of Going to the Dentist
Did you know that a huge number of Americans have never visited the dentist? When it comes to rural counties, about one in ten adults have never had a dental appointment.
According to the Missouri Coalition for Oral Health, a lack of education is one cause. Another common issue, though, is dental anxiety.
If you’ve been avoiding going to the dentist out of fear, then this guide can help. Read on to learn our top five tips for overcoming and rising above the fear you feel.
1. Identify Your Triggers
When it comes to dental care, there are many things that could trigger your anxiety. It could be the social anxiety of having someone looking into your mouth. It could also be the dental tools your dentist will use. Other common triggers include:- Fear of pain
- Anxious about the risks of dental sedation or other procedures
- Fear of needles
- Embarrassment
- Loss of control
2. Find a Dentist You Can Trust
Next, search for a dentist you feel comfortable with, you can trust, and that understands. You may need to try out a few different offices before you find one that feels right for you. It might be best to search for dentists who are prepared to handle anxious clients.3. Explain Your Dentist Phobia to Your Provider
Once you know what’s triggering your anxiety and you have a good dentist, talk about your fear. Your provider should be willing to work with you to find alternatives to avoid your triggers. If your trigger is unavoidable, then consider coping mechanisms. Since dental phobia is a valid diagnosis, you can also consider speaking to a therapist. They’ll be able to provide even better tips for you to use. If you dread the dentist, then consider asking for a therapist to speak to you during your appointment. They can help you work through your fear during your visit.4. Know You Are in Control of Your Dental Work
One thing that can be a huge help is to remember that you are in control of your dental work! Your dentist may recommend procedures, but you’re never obligated to follow through. Say no if you feel uncomfortable!5. Hold Yourself Accountable
Finally, hold yourself accountable. Don’t let fear rule your life and lead you to the reality of having bad teeth. Make sure you keep up with your appointments.Face Your Dental Anxiety and Improve Your Quality of Life
Dental anxiety is far more common than you think. You can’t let your fears cause you to miss out on crucial dental treatment, though.Consider using the steps above to help you tackle your dental phobias once and for all.
If you’re in Missouri and you’re hoping to overcome your fear of the dentist, then we hope we can help you. Our providers have experience working with anxious adults and children.
Fill out our online form and explain your situation. One of our providers will reach out to you as soon as possible to get started on your better health journey.
Why Are Sports and School Physicals Important Before School Starts?
Why Are Sports and School Physicals Important Before School Starts?
The fall sports season is around the corner and it is time to schedule your annual physical. Did you know that more than 57% of high school students participate in at least one sport?
This means that millions of students are set to play fall sports such as football and soccer. In the medical community, this results in a mad rush to get physicals in during late August.
Do not wait to get your fall sports physical scheduled. Read on to learn why school physicals are so important. Explore how physical exams and medical screenings can detect potential issues in young athletes.
What Is a Sports Physical?
Before diving into its value, it is important to understand what back-to-school physicals are. Here, a medical doctor takes a comprehensive look at a student’s physical and mental health.
Medical professionals start the process by reviewing the student’s history. This includes any existing issues or disclosures of family medical history.
For example, the student may disclose that there is a history of heart disease in their family. As a result, the doctor may refer the student to a cardiologist for an EKG and other heart-related testing.
Once the visit starts, the doctor performs a physical health screening. They are going to carefully inspect the student’s muscles, joints, and bones.
The doctor also checks the child’s lungs and vision. Blood pressure, heartbeat, and pulse are two other important items to monitor.
Many doctors are also adding a mental health screening to the child’s physical. Today, students are under a lot of pressure to perform academically and athletically. For many, it takes an enormous toll and mental health issues emerge due to these pressures.
According to a U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) study, roughly 1 in 5 students have a mental health disorder. This figure has increased due to modern challenges like cyberbullying and the Covid-19 pandemic.
A mental health screening can identify feelings of depression and anxiety. Now, the child can receive the help that they need.
What Are the Risks of Delaying a Sports Physical?
Many people wait until the last minute to schedule their sports physicals. This is a mistake for many different reasons.
For starters, your child cannot participate in school sports without a proper physical. If the medical office cannot get you in promptly, your child may miss the start of their season.
Also, sports physicals are an important tool in preventative medicine. In many cases, the doctor identifies a potential medical issue before it becomes a larger problem. Identifying a health issue early allows your child to correct the root cause and get better.
Your Guide to School Physicals
You are now ready to promptly schedule your Missouri sports physical with Compass Health Network. The fall season will be here before you know it.
Make sure to get on the doctor’s calendar before appointments are booked through September. Not only is it a prerequisite for playing school sports, but also an important medical tool for preventative care.
If you are looking to schedule a school physical, contact us today to get on the calendar.