Overcoming Your Fear of the Dentist

You look at your calendar to see that it's here again- your bi-annual dental cleaning. If this is not a joyous realization you are not alone. According to Columbia University of Dental Medicine 40 million Americans dread going to the Dentist. Many avoid it altogether because the fear is to overwhelming.

Why Are So Many of us Afraid of the Dentist?

For many of us it all stems from a bad past experience. Maybe it was having a tooth pulled as a child or a root canal gone wrong.  Possible you had a not-so-gentle dental hygienist who made your dental cleaning a traumatic and painful experience. It could also simply be the fear of the unknown and not being educated on a procedure before it happens.

Looking past our painful memories, it is important to remember that not every office/dentist/hygienist is the same. At Bradshaw dental our staff is extremely gentle and informative. Over the years the industry has also developed new technology to make going to the dentist practically pain-free.

We understand that even with this knowledge patients come in still uneasy about their appointment. If this is the case with you here are some tips on how to cope with your fear of the dentist.

Overcoming Your Fear

1. Get to know the dental staff.
Dr. Bradshaw and our hygienists have your best interests in mind and want you to feel comfortable. Talking with them and sharing some laughs may ease your worries and help you trust the staff working on your teeth. You can even read Bios of our staff on this blog before your visit!

2. Agree on hand signals
Let Doctor Bradshaw and our team know your concerns. Agree on a hand signal if you are feeling pain or need a break. Simply raising your hand during a procedure can help them know to stop. This helps you feel a little more in control.

3. Practice breathing techniques before your visit
Try sitting at home and practice focusing on your breathing. Try 5 counts breathing in and then slowly breathing out for 5 counts-1...2...3....4....5 and then start again. Close your eyes and really focus on relaxing your body. Then next time you are in the dentist chair try it again. When your body and mind are relaxed it is not only helpful for you but also that staff to work on your mouth.

4. Bring your own headphones and music
Let doctor Bradshaw know that you prefer listening to your music before the procedure. Then put your headphone in and turn on your  favorite tunes. This can help distract your mind and make it a more enjoyable experience.



Don't let your fears keep you from routinely visiting the dentist. This can cause many oral health problems which could eventually result in many expensive and lengthy procedures. Doctor Bradshaw and our staff are here for you and want the best for you and your health. We will see you at your next appointment! :)