Going to the dentist is a necessary part of maintaining good oral health, but for many people, it is a source of anxiety and fear.
An estimated 9 to 15% of Americans avoid seeing the dentist altogether because of anxiety or fear (30 to 40 million people!).
Dental anxiety affects a significant portion of the population, leading to missed appointments, neglected oral care, and ultimately, potential dental issues.
However, it’s important to understand that dental anxiety is a common problem and there are ways to overcome this debilitating hurdle. In this article, we will explore strategies to help you overcome your dental anxiety and make your dental visit stress-free.
How dental anxiety can impact your health
Ensuring your dental and overall health requires regular dental visits, preventive care, and timely treatment of any issues that arise.
Allowing dental phobia to hinder your visits or recommended treatments can potentially have detrimental consequences, such as :
- Teeth stains and discoloration.
- Chipped, fractured, and broken teeth.
- Gum disease and potential gum recession.
- Cavities and tooth decay.
- Mouth pain and discomfort.
- Tooth loss.
- Additionally, undetected or untreated dental-related issues like TMJ, sleep apnea, and even oral cancer may manifest with their respective symptoms and risks.
Understanding dental anxiety | Underlying causes
Pain avoidance
Many people naturally assume that visiting the dentist translates to a painful experience by default.
However, dentistry has come a long way, and modern dental techniques make visiting the dentist much more comfortable compared to times past.
Feeling a lack of control and fear of the unknown
The prospect of sitting in a dental chair can evoke nervousness and claustrophobia in some individuals.
Dental offices today are aware of these fears and provide detailed explanations of each step involved in your treatment beforehand to avoid feeling caught by surprise.
Concerns about dental health-related embarrassment
If the fear of the dentist has prevented you from seeking dental care for an extended period, it is possible that you may be dealing with more significant dental issues that need to be addressed.
Even if your teeth may appear healthy, you might worry about facing repercussions for delaying your appointment, not flossing regularly, or displaying signs of suboptimal maintenance.
However, it is important to remember that the longer you delay dental visits, the more embarrassed you may feel about the condition of your teeth. It is crucial to understand that we will never judge or criticize you for past dental health choices.
Our sole aim is to assist you in achieving optimal oral health!
Negative past experiences
Unfortunately, some dentists fail to prioritize providing the best possible experience for their patients.
If you have had an unpleasant encounter with such a dentist, it may have left a lasting negative impression. Whether you were coerced into undergoing an unwanted treatment or simply didn’t feel welcome, such experiences can breed mistrust.
The good news is that superior options do exist. The key lies in finding an honest and trustworthy dentist who will treat you with respect and compassion. We believe in starting with non-invasive and easy appointments to establish a relationship built on trust and consideration for your emotions.
Solutions for overcoming dental anxiety
Communicate with your dentist
One of the most effective ways to ease dental anxiety is through being transparent about your dental anxiety with your dentist.
Let them know about your fears and concerns beforehand so they can take the necessary steps to make you feel comfortable during your visit.
A good dentist will be understanding and supportive, and they can explain each step of the procedure to alleviate any uncertainties.
Find a dentist who specializes in anxiety management
Dentists who specialize in treating anxious patients understand the unique challenges that come with dental anxiety.
They are trained to provide a calm and soothing environment and may offer various techniques such as relaxation exercises, distraction techniques, or even sedation dentistry if needed.
Research dentists in your area who have experience in anxiety management and choose one who can cater to your specific needs.
Incorporate relaxation techniques
Before your dental appointment, practice relaxation techniques that help calm the nervous system such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or listening to soothing music.
Bring a support person
Having a trusted friend or family member accompany you to your dental appointment can provide a great source of comfort and reassurance.
They can offer emotional support, or simply distract you during the procedure. Just make sure to inform your dentist beforehand that you’ll be bringing someone along.
Distraction techniques
Many dental practices now offer distraction techniques to help patients take their minds off the procedure. These can include watching TV shows or movies, listening to music, or using virtual reality headsets.
By diverting your attention, these distractions make the dental visit feel less overwhelming.
Gradual desensitization
If your dental anxiety is severe, consider working with your dentist on a gradual desensitization plan.
This involves starting with short, non-invasive appointments and gradually progressing to more involved procedures over time. By gradually exposing yourself to dental treatments, you can build confidence and reduce your anxiety.
Explore sedation options
For those with extreme dental anxiety, sedation dentistry can be a viable option. It involves the use of medication to help you relax during the dental procedure.
Your dentist can discuss the various sedation options available and determine which one is most suitable for your level of anxiety and the type of procedure being performed.
Modern Day Dental | Non-Judgemental Dentistry | Jacksonville, FL
If you’re experiencing dental anxiety, our team at Modern Day Dental would be happy to help make your dental experience both pain and stress free using the latest technology combined with old-fashioned empathy.
We are committed to providing a supportive and stress-free environment for all our patients, and we’ll work with you to make your visit as comfortable as possible.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards overcoming your dental anxiety.