If you experience anxiety at the mere thought of going to the dentist, you're not alone. However, seeing a dentist at least twice a year is a must if you want to maintain your oral and overall health. Fortunately, dental offices have come a long way when it comes to providing a more relaxing and comfortable environment for patients. Still, there are certain dental anxieties that only you can overcome; here's your guide to dealing with three of the most common ones.

A Sensitive Gag Reflex During X-Rays

One common experience that can lead to dental anxiety for many patients is that of having a sensitive gag reflex while having dental X-rays done. Those little tabs that the hygienist or dental assistant places in your mouth can make you feel like you're going to gag (or may actually cause you to gag). Of course that's going to be uncomfortable. If this has been a problem for you in the past, the solution could be as simple as requesting a panoramic X-ray, which doesn't require the tabs to be placed in your mouth.

Difficulty Breathing Through The Nose

If you're a mouth-breather, then visiting the dentist for even a routine cleaning can be very uncomfortable. While in the dentist's chair, you may have difficulty breathing and feel understandably stressed as a result. If you suffer from this problem, ask your dentist about receiving nitrous oxide before he or she begins working on you. This may help you relax and be able to breathe more easily. You might also want to consider wearing nasal strips to the dentist, which will help to open up your nasal passages and make it easier for you to breathe out of your mouth during the appointment.

Fear Of Loud Noises, Such As Drills

Finally, if you're afraid of going to the dentist because you experience anxiety when you hear loud noises (such as drills and air tubes), consider the simple solution of wearing noise canceling headphones during your appointment. Some dentist's offices these days even have these readily available for patients to use, so you may not even have to go out and buy your own pair. Earplugs are also an option for those who don't want to spend the money on a pair of headphones.

If you suffer from any of these common dental fears, be sure to give these options a try. You might be surprised at just how much more enjoyable your visit to an office like Pinon Hills Dental, can be as a result.