Ways to Combat Root Canal Anxiety

You probably cringed when your dentist informed you that you need a root canal in Medford, WI. Although this procedure causes anxiety in many patients, it doesn’t have to send you into a complete panic. We’ve rounded up a couple of tactics you can use to feel less on edge before your treatment.

How to Overcome Root Canal Anxiety

Use Meditation and Visualization

You can practice meditation before and during your root canal procedure to minimize stress and calm yourself down. Shift your focus on your breathing for about 10 minutes to reduce your heart rate and naturally calm your anxiety. While you’re at it, try to visualize yourself undergoing a pleasant and pain-free dental appointment.

Listen to Music

According to medical experts, music therapy can ease anxiety, depression, fatigue, and pain. It also reduces muscle tension, provides emotional comfort, strengthens coping skills, and enhances self-awareness. You can soothe your aggravated nerves, drown out the drilling noises during your procedure by listening to your favorite songs.

Have an Aromatherapy Session

Aromatherapy refers to the holistic healing treatment based on extracts from plants and essential oils by breathing them through the nose or putting them on the skin. Some of the most popular oils to reduce anxiety include sandalwood, chamomile, lavender, ylang-ylang, rose geranium, and jasmine.

Try Nitrous Oxide Sedation

Whether you have difficulty sitting still in a dental chair for extended periods or you struggle with mild to moderate gag reflex, you should ask your dentist about nitrous oxide sedation. Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a safe and effective means of conscious sedation that your dental care provider administers through a nasal mask. As it changes the mixture of oxygen in your lungs, it relaxes you and helps the dental team get to work.

Do You Need Root Canal in Medford, WI?

The team of dental professionals at Northwoods Dentistry is committed to changing lives one smile at a time. We want you to enjoy the ease and convenience that comes from having all your dental needs met in one location. Call now to make an appointment.