If the thought of visiting the dentist for your bi-annual checkup makes you break out in hives, you’re not alone. Dental phobia is a common ailment and the degree of your anxiety will vary based on previous experiences and the current health of your teeth. While there are may ways to ease your fear of the dentist, there is one method that is gaining traction in dental offices across the country.
No, I’m not talking about laughing gas. I’m talking about a fantastic playlist!
The American Dental Association suggests that patients listen to music in the dentist’s office as a form of distraction. In fact, a combination of music and a topical anesthetic during dental procedures can reduce your blood pressure and pulse rate more than an anesthetic alone. Patients who listen to music at the dentist’s office also tend to have lower levels of stress-related hormones.
If you need help creating a dental de-stressing playlist, you’re in luck! Here are three questions to consider while making your playlist:
- What do you usually use to de-stress? You probably don’t want to add that Metallica song that pumps you up in the car. Instead try for something that is soothing but energetic. You don’t want low points in the music to reveal the noise you are trying to cover.
- Is your dentist okay with earphones? Call your dentist’s office before your appointment and make sure they are okay with you listening to music.
- What kind of earphones will you use? We suggest a good, noise concealing ear bud. They will stay in during the movement and seal sounds out.
