How To Combat Dental Visit Anxiety: A Guide for Most of Us

For a lot of people, just the thought of a dental visit can send shivers down their spine, regardless of how comfortable they are with their dentist, and believe it or not, there is a name for it. It's called Dentophobia and is more generally known as dental anxiety. Statistics suggest that around 5% to 20% of people experience some level of dental anxiety or fear. However, severe dental phobia, which can significantly interfere with dental care, is less common, affecting around 5% to 10% of individuals. These numbers fluctuate based on cultural differences, previous experiences, and other factors.

So dental anxiety is a widespread issue that affects people of all ages, usually stemming from many factors such as fear of pain, past traumatic experiences, or simply feeling out of control in the dental chair. However, avoiding regular dental care due to anxiety can lead to very serious oral health problems down the line, ironically ensuring that the eventual visit will have to be more invasive to correct the neglected issue. Fortunately, there are some effective strategies to combat dental visit anxiety and ensure a smoother, more relaxed experience for most of us; read on!

Understanding Your Dental Anxiety:

Dental anxiety is much more than just feeling a little nervous before a check-up; it can be a debilitating fear that prevents people from seeking necessary dental care when they need it. Understanding the root (pun intended) cause of your anxiety is the first step towards overcoming it. Recognizing and addressing these concerns is crucial, whether it's a fear of needles, the sound of dental tools, or a previous negative experience. So, take a moment to do a self-inventory on what exactly about going to the dentist makes you feel nervous.

Choosing the Right Dentist:

This is more general advice since you are already a client of ours. But even if it’s only to pass on this tip to someone you know, it’s well worth it. Finding a dentist who understands and empathizes with your anxiety can make all the difference to your visit. Always look for a dental practice that specializes in treating nervous patients and offers a calm, supportive environment where nothing is "off the table" when it comes to making you feel more comfortable. For example, here at Sparkeen Dental, we utilize noise-cancelling headphones, Televisions, and even blankets to make our clients feel more comfortable.

When going in to get any dental appointment don't hesitate to schedule a consultation beforehand to discuss your concerns and get to know the dentist and staff before getting any work done.

Communicate Openly:

Effective communication is critical to overcoming dental anxiety. Be honest with your dentist about your fears and past experiences. They can custom tailor their approach to accommodate your specific needs, whether it's explaining procedures in detail, using gentle techniques, or providing distractions like music or TV during treatment. Remember, Dentists are formally trained to handle anxious patients and help you feel as comfortable as possible.

Practice Relaxation Techniques:

Learning relaxation techniques can help alleviate anxiety both before and during your dental visit. Deep breathing exercises, meditation, or listening to calming music can help you relax and significantly reduce your stress levels. There are some great apps out there, like "Calm" that can help you learn these techniques. Consider incorporating these practices into your daily routine leading up to your appointment to build your resilience against anxiety.

Bring a Support Person:

Bringing a friend or family member along to your dental appointment can provide a lot of emotional support and reassurance. Having someone familiar by your side can help ease feelings of anxiety and make the experience much more manageable. Just inform your dentist beforehand so they can accommodate an extra person in the treatment room if they are needed.

Take Control of Your Appointment:

Feeling a lack of control is a very common trigger for dental anxiety. Take an active role in your dental care by asking pressing questions, discussing treatment options, and setting realistic expectations. Knowing what to expect from your next appointment can help alleviate fear of the unknown and empower you to feel more in control of the situation.

Reward Yourself:

Don't forget to reward yourself for facing your fears and taking steps to combat your dental anxiety. Treat yourself to something enjoyable after your appointment, whether it's a favourite meal, a relaxing activity, or simply acknowledging your bravery. Positive reinforcement can help reinforce positive associations with dental visits and motivate you to continue prioritizing your oral health.

By clearly understanding your fears, working with a supportive dentist, and employing relaxation techniques, you can overcome dental visit anxiety and maintain a healthy smile for years to come. Remember, you're not alone, and there are resources and strategies available to help you navigate your next dental appointment with confidence.

If you have been putting off your next appointment with us due to dental anxiety, fear not and come on in for a no-charge consultation and learn how we can work with you to meet your dental anxiety head-on and ensure that no matter how high your anxiety is, that next visit is as comfortable as possible. Book with us anytime online.