How Dentists Are Helping to Banish Your Fears
by Lillian Dixon
The modern-day dentist is fully trained not only in their craft, but also in ways of dealing with their patient's anticipation, fears or phobias. What can you expect when you next visit your dentist?
A Different Environment
Firstly, the dentist's office has in many cases been transformed and is a very welcoming environment. A great deal of effort has been put into the overall design of not only the surgery, but the reception and waiting room as well. Today, you are much more likely to see interesting items of artwork rather than photos of perfect smiles on the wall. Colour schemes are meant to be much more relaxing and friendly, such as light blues. You will hear relaxation music playing in the background. Also, the dentists and their assistants may not be dressed in those traditional medical scrubs, but rather in more conventional clothing.
Audiovisual
You may well be asked what you like to listen to in terms of your favourite music. This will allow the receptionist to programme these songs to play in the background when you're in the surgery. It's also likely that you will be able to view a TV programme of your choice or simply enjoy some relaxing visuals on a monitor screen above you.
Communication is Paramount
Communication is everything when it comes to making your visit to the dentist's office a pleasant one. If your next visit to this particular dentist is going to be your first, then the dentist will want to talk with you before any procedures in order to understand your questions, get a feeling for what you may be worried about and to see if you have any concerns. The dentist will be at pains to establish a good rapport with you and to ensure that your visit to their office is always harmonious.
While time can be of the essence when it comes to some dental problems, an emergency dentist will need to learn certain information, like how your injury came about, so they can best treat you.
Step-By-Step Explanations
So that you are fully aware of what is about to take place, the dentist will likely go into detail about the upcoming procedure. In such cases, he or she will verbally explain what they are about to do, show you the product or hand tools they will be using and visually demonstrate the procedure by applying the product or hand tool to their hand or finger. In this way, you'll be able to see exactly what is going to take place and this should help alleviate that fear of the unknown.
Your dentist will make sure that you are gradually introduced to some of the new tools and gadgets which may be unfamiliar. They should take things slowly and explain everything to you as it happens, so that you know exactly what to expect.
Share
About Me
As a mum, I know how essential sport can be to children's development. Through team sports like soccer, kids learn persistence, sportsmanship and the value of supporting their team members. However, all that learning carries some risk as well, and a stray elbow or a ball to the face can result in oral injuries. I have been the mum rushing to the emergency room with a precious permanent tooth sitting in a cup of milk. Admittedly, at the time, I wasn't even sure if the cup of milk was the right solution. As a parent, you will face those situations, and I'm here to make sure you know what to do when they pop up. With this blog, let's explore children's dentistry and sports injuries together... I want you to have the info you need to stay cool, calm and collected, regardless of how many teeth are on the pitch.