You know the importance of good oral health. You brush and floss twice a day, are careful about not eating hard or sticky candies and never chew ice, but one thing you don’t do is go to the dentist. While you have convinced yourself since nothing hurts, it’s ok to live by the “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” rule, you know deep down inside, that isn’t smart.

Often not knowing what to expect keeps adults from heading to the dentist. When calling the office to schedule an appointment be up front and honest with the receptionist and tell her of your fears. Then ask if you can have a couple extra minutes with the dentist and/or hygienist at the beginning of the appointment to discuss your concerns.
In the past, people with a sensitive gag reflex dreaded having dental X-Rays taken because those plastic and cardboard tabs inserted in the mouth would cause gagging. Now the majority of dentists offer non-invasive panoramic X-Rays. There is nothing worse than that horrible drilling noise. Either ask your dentist for a pair of headphones or bring your ear buds and iPod.
You are reclined, getting pretty comfortable in the chair and then in walks the hygienist who starts to arrange all those sharp dental tools. Instead of freaking out, ask her to explain what each instrument will be used for.
Along with all these tips you can also begin to prepare yourself before even leaving home. It’s amazing what a couple simple relaxation tips can do to help change your outlook.
And if none of the above techniques work for you, we offer Nitrous Oxide and other prescription medications that will help calm any nerves.

Dr. Ellis and her staff understand a dental visit can be scary and we all work hard to ease your fears. Please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 314.965.1334 and talk with our scheduling coordinator, Nicole about your concerns. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to see how non-threatening your twice yearly dental visits can be.