Afraid of the Dentist? Try These Strategies to Ease Your Anxiety

A lot of us avoid the dentist — or want to. According to the Cleveland Clinic, about 36 percent of Americans have a fear of dental treatment, with 12 percent having an extreme fear.

Finding a dentist who understands fear is ­crucial. Look for a practitioner who advertises a gentle, minimally invasive approach or specializes in treating anxious patients. Reading online reviews can also help identify compassion­ate providers.

“Minimally invasive dentists often take a more ­holistic approach to treatment. We take a little more time and get to know the patient,” says Mark Malterud, DDS, MAGD. “That’s the best way to get rid of a phobia. The patient has to feel [heard] and be given some level of control in the situation. Once they start relaxing, the dentistry gets a lot easier.”

These steps can help you overcome your anxiety.

1. Ask for help. Have a trusted friend or family member schedule the appointment for you.
2. Bring a friend. Taking someone with you can provide emotional support and distraction.
3. Practice relaxation techniques. Techniques like tapping (EFT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) can reduce anxiety before and during the visit.
4. Communicate your fears. Let your dentist know about your anxiety so they can ­adjust their approach to make you more comfortable.