Dental Anxiety

It is estimated that between 9-15 % of Americans or an estimated 30-40 million people avoid seeing the dentist because of fear and anxiety. Avoiding going to the dentist is not an option at some point in everyone’s life. Poor dental health has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, premature birth and low birth weight. People with decayed and missing teeth can be discriminated in their jobs and experience low self esteem. If the damage to one’s teeth is obvious, laughing and smiling can be out of the question for some. There are many levels of fear. Sometimes just finding a dentist you are comfortable with or using some kind of distraction such as headphones or videos is all that is needed. If the fear is extreme and causing distress it is sometimes necessary to seek professional therapy.
At Larcychris Counseling I have developed a program to help those with extreme dental fear. I bring to the fearful dental patient a unique program. My dual degree, as both a dental hygienist and a psychotherapist gives me the insights that are important in overcoming your dental fear. I believe the client/professional relationship must be based on trust. I have developed a program for working through your dental fear. During your journey I will be there for you each step of the way.

Science of Happines

What makes us happy? Researchers have found some interesting results. You might think it is wealth, youth, a good education, ect. What they found makes us happiest are our family connections and friendships. Sonja Lyubomirsky, a psychologist from the University Of California, lists 8 steps Toward a More Satisfying Life, they are:

1. Count your blessings
2. Practice acts of kindness
3. Savor life's joys
4. Thank a mentor
5. Learn to forgive
6. Invest time and energy in friends and family
7. Take care of your body
8. Develop strategies for coping with stress and hardships

I have recently found a great tool to help reach out to family and friends, or business associates to let them know you care. It is an online greeting card company. Just the simple act of sending a card can really lift a person's day. With this company you can personalize the card with your own handwritten note and even add pictures. You can do this in just a few minutes from your personal computer. If this sounds like something you would like to do, email me at dynystrom@gmail.com and I will be happy to give you the information.

It is amazing how it helps you feel better when you know you are doing a little something to make someone else's day a little brighter.