CREDIT RIVER DENTAL CENTRE Because no two smiles are alike
CREDIT RIVER DENTAL CENTRE Because no two smiles are alike
All patients visiting our clinic are required to complete the Patient Screening Form before their visit.
Have you ever wanted to do something so badly, but you were too afraid to do it or afraid of something that would let you do it? Are you stressed or scared of just the thought, sight, touch or sound of something/someone? Phobias; we all have at least one. Even Superman had one; kryptonite.
I’ve always been a winter fan (I’m not crazy, I promise!), I was born and raised in friendly “Winterpeg”, Manitoba, the land of snow! I love to snowboard and ice skate even with a mild fear of heights and slipping. Yet every season, I’m on the top of that mountain and speed my way down without so much as a thought of just one wrong move, could send me tumbling down in pieces.
I do enjoy summer and the fun filled sun soaking activities associated with it, but there is one thing I’m absolutely terrified of; bees! As soon as I hear or see one, I’m probably the roadrunner’s best competition, I speed away! I can face being on top of a 3000+ foot high mountain, but a 3mm sized bee will have be running for my life.
Different phobias can affect people in many different ways. Some symptoms may be worse than others depending on the phobia itself or the situation in which it presents itself. For many, (I was once including in this group), dentistry is on top of the list. The thought of the drilling, suctioning sounds, needles and metal instruments in my mouth that I couldn’t see, only feel, it can be a scary thought. It can cause sweating, nervousness, agitation, and anxiety just to name a few. And though it may sound and seem scary, there are a few things that can help alleviate these symptoms.
Firstly, it is important to realize that being scared is okay. It does not make you any less of a person, nor does it exclude you from those who are not scared. It is important to note that for some people, this phobia stems from previous bad experiences, which then hinders any future treatments, But, if we had the mindset that just because something didn’t go the way it was planned the first time, that we should just then give up. We wouldn’t succeed in anything in life. Letting past bad experiences define your future direction only leads to circles; you’ll always end up back to where you started. Dentistry is an integral part of life that should be seen as support group; a group of professionals in oral care that are here to lead you to and maintain a healthy oral lifestyle. We are your number one fans that want you to succeed in oral hygiene!
“Dentistry is an integral part of life that should be seen as support group; a group of professionals in oral care that are here to lead you to and maintain a healthy oral lifestyle.”
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. For some, knowing step by step can help alleviate some of the stress of not knowing what’s going on. Express any concerns you may have openly and we will always try our best to explain in the best possible manner.
If your nerves seem to really get to you, you can make special requests to help make you feel more at ease.
Practicing positive self-encouragement can also be a big help! Telling yourself you are capable can help with your esteem. You are your number one fan! It is always good to be optimistic and remind yourself that you will be fine and that you can trust your dental family in providing you with the proper care and treatment.
We also offer televisions in our operatories so don’t be afraid to ask to put on your favourite show! You can also bring in a set of headphones and listen to music or your favourite podcasts. We can dim the lights and diffuse some essential oils to help too. Distractions can be a big help when you are feeling anxious!
As your top choice dental office, we want to reassure you that you are in great care! Our ultimate goal is optimal oral health and we are here to help you every step of the way. Let us know how to make each visit as comfortable as possible. It’s okay to feel scared, but rest assure, your Credit River Dental family has your back every step of the way!