Dental fear and anxiety are very common among patients. Many people suffer from some form of fear or anxiety when faced with a dental appointment. This fear can manifest in anything from mild discomfort to full-on dentophobia (fear of dentists). It is important that patients do not let this fear prevent them from seeking the care they need to maintain their oral health. There are several ways to deal with dental fear and anxiety in order to make patients as comfortable as possible, and it all starts with a conversation.
Talk it out
The first step in tackling dental fear head-on is to talk to the dentist about it. No one is going to judge you, and no one is going to pressure you. We understand that some patients need more support to feel comfortable in our chair, and we will do everything in our power to ensure you receive the care you need. Not just for your oral health, but also for your mental health and peace of mind.
Talking about your fear and anxiety will give us the chance to understand what steps we can take to mitigate your concerns. Are you afraid of pain? We can find the best pain management solution for you. Are you afraid of needles? We can help you face that fear. Is it the feeling of being out of control that bothers you? When can answer all your questions and give you all the information you need to feel more comfortable. The important thing is to talk to us, together we can find ways to meet that fear straight on.
There are some things that you can do to help you feel more comfortable during an appointment, and there are steps we can take to alleviate your fears.
Smile Dental Clinics
Dental Fear and Anxiety
Dental fear and anxiety are very common among patients. Many people suffer from some form of fear or anxiety when faced with a dental appointment. This fear can manifest in anything from mild discomfort to full-on dentophobia (fear of dentists). It is important that patients do not let this fear prevent them from seeking the care they need to maintain their oral health. There are several ways to deal with dental fear and anxiety in order to make patients as comfortable as possible, and it all starts with a conversation.
What You Can Do
Tune out
Bring a pair of earbuds and listen to your favorite playlist during the procedure. If you don’t want to listen to music, then maybe your favorite podcast, audiobook, or nature sounds may distract you enough to make the appointment less daunting.
Mind over matter
You can also try meditation, either before the appointment or during. Clearing your mind and trying relaxation techniques can help you be less anxious in the dentist’s chair.
What We Can Do
Sedation
Before your procedure, we can determine if sedation dentistry is a viable option for you. Based on the type of procedure and other factors that the dentist will take into consideration, there are different types of sedation that can make the appointment more comfortable for you.
Sedation Options
- Nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas”
- Oral sedation – usually in pill form
- IV sedation
- General anesthesia
A conversation with the dentist will help determine if sedation is the right option for you.
Communication
In any good relationship, communication is the key to explaining what you need and understanding how to get it. Don’t be embarrassed to ask questions or express your anxieties. Write your thoughts down before coming to your appointment so you don’t forget any questions, or in case you get nervous. On our side, we will explain your procedure to you so you have a full understanding of what is happening, and we will answer all your questions. Keeping the lines of communication open is the starting point to calming your anxieties and feeling more comfortable during your procedure.
Be Gentle with Yourself
Don’t be embarrassed and be kind to yourself. No one on the team is going to judge you for having these feelings, so you shouldn’t either. It might take a while to overcome or even lessen your fear, and that’s ok.
Don’t let dental fear and anxiety stop you from getting the care you need. We are here to help, in every way we can, and that includes giving you the right support to face your fears.
If you suffer from dental fear and anxiety, call us for more information or to schedule a visit in our office located in Phoenix, AZ
