When Your Body Attacks Your Teeth: Combating Autoimmune Dental Problems

How To Encourage Your Spouse To Go To The Dentist

Your spouse's health is probably very important to you. Since adequate family dental care is an important part of a person's overall health, then you probably want your spouse to have the dental care that he or she needs. Having a spouse who doesn't want to go to the dentist can be frustrating, but don't throw your hands up in frustration just yet.

Try to Understand Where Your Spouse is Coming From

It's easy to get angry or irritated with your spouse about things like dental visits when you don't think they're a big deal. It's important to understand where your spouse is coming from. For example, many people don't go to the dentist regularly  because they're scared. Trying to understand where your spouse is coming from and approaching the topic with empathy is important.

Help Your Spouse Choose the Right Dentist

Just because you're happy with your current dentist does not mean that he or she is a good fit for your spouse. If your spouse has a phobia of going to the dentist, you'll want to look for a dentist who regularly works with people who have dental phobias and who might have more patience. If your spouse has serious dental issues, you may need to find a dentist who specializes in restorations, which might not be something that your dentist does.

Share Your Own Concerns

By opening up a bit about dental care yourself, you can help your spouse feel less vulnerable. This can be a good bonding moment for the two of you. You can talk about any experiences that you might have had at the dentist or about any dental issues that you might be dealing with right now. You can also share with your spouse why you are so concerned about his or her dental care or lack thereof.

Go and Provide Support

It might not always be possible for you to go with your spouse to the dentist. Your work schedule might make this difficult, or someone might have to stay home with the kids. If you can arrange it, though, know that going with your spouse to the dentist is a good way to show support. If your spouse knows that you're right there waiting in the waiting room, he or she might not be quite as nervous about the appointment. The two of you can even do something fun as a couple before or after the appointment to make it something to look forward to rather than something to dread.


Share