Watch your food and water intake.
Before your appointment, avoid foods with high sugars or caffeine, as they may make you more jittery and contribute to your nerves.
Instead, try something that has calming properties, like caffeine-free tea.
Practice a deep breathing technique.Nov 6, 2023.
Sedation
Explain sedation options to your nervous patient.
An oral sedative, or a date with the nitrous oxide mask may be all they need to feel more comfortable with their treatment.
It can be comforting to the patient when they are given the power of choice..
Nitrous oxide, aka laughing gas, relaxes all but the most stressed patients, as can oral sedation, where the patient takes a small dose of an oral sedative.
In cases of extreme anxiety, or for extremely long and/or complex procedures, the dentist could also administer IV sedation..
Oral anxiety relieving (anxiolytic) medications (such as temazepam) are sometimes prescribed by dentists or doctors to help anxious patients relax.
A short-acting, small, single dose is usually taken one hour before the dental appointment..
Your dentist may also recommend conscious sedation, such as nitrous oxide (or “laughing gas”), which can help calm nerves.
You will still have control over your bodily functions, and this medication is applied only during the procedure..
Known as happy gas or laughing gas, nitrous oxide can help people relax during dental treatment.
A mask is fitted to your face, and you breathe a mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide.
It takes effect within a few minutes and wears off quickly..
Speak with your dentist and discuss possible techniques to help you feel relaxed
Watching TV, bringing a friend, and even alternative therapies like hypnosis might calm your nerves, allowing you to get through appointments with less fear
Next time you are going to the dentist use these mindfulness skills to set a positive intention, to relax your mind and body with relaxation breathing and then to change the channel to something you find relaxing and stress free
(Note: The extraction and implant went perfectly without any of the potential problems the dentist warned me about
Practice a deep breathing technique
Remembering to breathe is a key component to staying calm and relaxed during a procedure or routine cleaning
Visit your dentist regularly, avoid skipping or prolonging appointments
The fear of what could be wrong with your teeth may prevent you from feeling at ease coming to the dentist
