The STOP signal
The STOP signal is a simple but powerful way to communicate with your dental team if you need a break. By agreeing on a hand signal before treatment begins, you remain in control throughout your appointment, helping you feel safer and more confident. The STOP signal can also be modified so that a resting hand means low anxiety and raising the hand before reaching a full STOP signal would indicate increasing levels of anxiety.
Box Breathing Exercise
Box breathing is one of many breathing techniques that can help calm your mind and body when you are feeling anxious. By slowing and regulating your breathing, it activates your body's relaxation response, making it easier to manage stress before or during a dental appointment. This video will guide you through this simple technique step by step.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation
Progressive muscle relaxation is a simple technique that involves gently tensing and then relaxing different muscle groups throughout your body. This technique helps release physical tension, increase awareness of where you hold stress, and promote a greater sense of relaxation. This video will guide you through the exercise so you can practice using it before or during dental visits.