Coping mechanisms anyone?

[dentalphobi]

First off, I go to the dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups. Genetically, we have good dental health. I also keep care of my teeth at home, brushing and flossing regularly. Also I am young, in my early 20's.

Details aside, I have some pain in a tooth and I have this horrific fear that it may be cracked or have a really bad cavity or something - despite seeing the dentist less than 3 months ago. I plan to go in a couple days when they can fit me in.

I am erratic at this point, as the pain gradually increases. I am having panic attacks. I hyperventilate while crying. The thought of going through a procedure that requires drilling away my natural tooth and needles - especially when it could potentially make me loose a tooth, makes me want to die

It just so happens I have a fear of anxiety medication and laughing gas - possibly because of being a HUGE control freak. I want to be in control of my own body not drugged up. I'd rather nothing (other than topical needle) or be full put out (G.A).

Oh, AND my dentist is on holiday. I really don't trust anyone else.

Does anyone have any tips for going through procedure? Calming fears? Words of advice?

 

[FearfulInMA]

Hi! I very similar in terms of not wanting medication (I would not want to be put out either). I also generally have a HUGE fear of needles - like the running from the room screaming or passing out kind. Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Keep breathing. You need to take deep diaphragmatic breaths when you start to feel anxiety coming on. You can't wait until it's full blown panic to start doing this.

2. As mentioned above, I am terrified of needles. However, after having so much dental work (countless fillings, 4 root canals, 4 crowns, wisdom teeth extractions) I can honestly tell you that injections for dental work are almost always painless.

3. Sometimes the drilling noise is unpleasant, but it doesn't hurt once you are numb - you shouldn't feel anything at all.

4. Often even bad tooth pain is a sign of something very minor that doesn't even need dental work - it could be some slight gum recession (almost everyone has this) or a little bit of enamel wearing away (again, very normal) and these things can often be treated by using a different type of toothpaste or by the dentist just 'painting' a special coating on the tooth.

5. If your teeth are generally healthy, it is very, very unlikely that anything now will cause you to lose the tooth.

Try not to let your mind get carried away... I know that's easier said than done. Do you know when your appointment is?

Hang in there!

 

[dentalphobi]

Thanks for the advice. It really helped. I have only have a needle given twice (did two fillings without) and I didn't feel a thing. My fear is so irrational.