Don't Fear the Dentist

(HealthDay News) --

Though clean and healthy teeth can brighten any grin, going to the dentist may not bring a smile to your face.

The American Dental Association lists these suggestions to make a dental visit easier on those who experience dental anxiety:

• Explain to your dentist and the rest of the staff in the office that you're anxious about going to the dentist, and express your specific concerns.


• Schedule your dentist appointment for a time when you won't feel pressured or rushed, such as a Saturday morning.


• Bring along a personal radio, MP3 player or CD player to drown out the sound of the drill.


• While you're in the chair, try to relax by visualizing yourself in a happy, relaxing and comfortable place, such as the beach.

The information in this article, including reference materials, are provided to you solely for educational or research purposes. Information in reference materials, are not and should not be considered professional health care advice upon which you should rely. Health care information changes rapidly and consequently, information in this article may be out of date. Questions about personal health should always be referred to a physician, dentist or other health care professional.

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