If you're the type of person who experiences a high degree of anxiety about visiting the dentist, the minutes you spend sitting in the waiting room at the dental clinic can be emotionally taxing. On one hand, you're nervous about the dental hygienist appearing in the door way and calling your name, but on the other hand, you find the waiting to be stressful. The good news is that there are several different ways to help keep calm in this situation. While distracting yourself with the office's selection of magazines or playing on your smartphone can work, here are some strategies that actually promote relaxation.
Deep Breathing
When you're anxious, it can be easy to take short, shallow breaths that can actually contribute to further feelings of anxiety. An effective way to overcome this habit is by consciously taking deep breaths. While there are many different deep breathing techniques that can be useful, try the simple rhythm of inhaling through your nose, holding your breath in a relaxed manner for about five seconds, and then exhaling through your mouth. As you breathe, try to focus exclusively on your breath -- you'll find that you'll start to relax.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation
Progressive muscle relaxation is common in several forms of meditation and is another ideal way that you can reduce your anxiety while you wait for your dental checkup. There are many ways to perform this relaxing exercise, but the key is to isolate each muscle group in your body and relax them one by one. Many people start with their feet -- gently curl your toes and then allow them to relax. Continue this pattern up your legs, through your hips and into your core, up through your torso, shoulders and arms, and then conclude with your neck and jaw.
Massage Your Hands
Applying pressure to specific points around your hands can help you relax as you wait for your appointment. While gently kneading the muscles around your thumb and the edge of your hand below your pinkie finger can be soothing, there's an actual acupressure point in your wrist that can help you. Place the thumb from one hand on the inner wrist of the opposite hand, just where the wrist and hand meet. Apply firm pressure -- not to the point of causing pain -- to the area for about two minutes, and then switch sides. Ideally, you'll feel more relaxed by the time your name is called.
If you're looking for a dentist in your area, visit Sun City Dental.
Share29 March 2016
Do you have a different doctor from your spouse? Does your child see a pediatrician? Most families have different medical health providers for different members of the family. This makes sense in most cases, but did you know that you can find a dentist who will treat every person in the family from a baby to a senior? I'm a manager or a family dentist, and in this blog you will learn why a family dentist is a great idea. I will tell you the many advantages of taking every family member to the same dentist, and I will give you tips of finding the right dental office for your family.