At the Dentist

Now all people, with or without anxiety, have to go to the dentist for obvious reasons. But if you have anxiety disorder, PTSD, panic disorder or something similar than this can become more than just a visit to the dentist office. It can become a hellish mental exercise in fear production. I went to my dentist this past Saturday, and let’s just say I had to use all the jedi mind tricks I could grab from my Guru goodie bag.

Now, fear and anxiety about seeing a dentist is rather normal, but if you are like me then you are pretty much afraid of your own shadow and can’t bear to sit in the hot seat. How do you fight that creepy crawly fear that you know is building up as the dentist does his/her thing? Well, there are few tricks I use (that you already know) to keep myself calm and in the chair.

Rule number 1. You must remind yourself that this is for your own good. You are of course probably worried about your health. Then it is good to know that visiting your dentist regularly promotes overall good health. Recent studies have found that dental health is directly related to heart health. So, as I sat there and began to feel nervous I just reminded myself that this would help keep my heart healthy and strong.

Rule number 2. Self talk. This is a method by which you use repetitive sayings of reassurance to yourself (not out loud of course). I am ok, nothing is going to hurt me… I will be fine this will only take a few minutes. Whatever you find comforting, repeat it over and over with your eyes closed.

Rule number 3. Use visualization to put yourself in another place. As you well know the mind is very powerful. And just the same way it can be used to scare the hell out of you, it can be used to calm you. Picture a tranquil place ( I am partial to waterfalls) and see yourself there. Happy, calm and still.

Rule number 4. Breathe. Breathe slowly and ‘through’ your belly. Take deep breathes and relax.

I used all four techniques at varying times to keep my nerve. Four years ago I once ran out, or at least walked briskly, out of a dentist office because I hadn’t learned to control my nerves. Now, although I was anxious my levels of anxiety were controllable. I was able to sit and be as calm as I needed to be. These techniques can be used not just at the dentist, but anywhere. I’ll expand on each one in other post so you can get all the details you need to feel confident in using them. How do you currently handle a visit to the dentist?