Bring your iPod.

Do the sounds of the dental office make you nervous? Why not bring your Mp3 player or iPod to your next dental appointment. You can drown out the sounds of the office with your favourite music or a guided relaxation piece.

Guided relaxation or meditation is a popular and effective way to reduce stress and help the mind and body relax. Most guided relaxation or meditation pieces walk you through a series of deep breathing and visualizations exercises that put your body into a deep state of relaxation.

Deep breathing on it’s own will do the same thing. The next time you find yourself feeling anxious at the dental office (or anywhere) try the following:

Inhale slowly through the nose and direct the breath into the lower portion of your belly. Hold the breath for a few seconds and then exhale slowly through the nose or the mouth. Repeating this for as little as 2 or 3 minutes will cause you to relax.