Have you been postponing your dental checkup visits? Does the mere thought of visiting a dentist sends chills down your spine? Would you rather bear excruciating toothache than seek dental treatment? If the answer to these questions is a yes, then you are suffering from dental anxiety. But you’re not alone! Statistics show that over 53% of Britishers have some form of dental phobia.
But, here is the good news; regardless of your type and degree of dental anxiety, it is manageable! This blog offers practical solutions to help you get rid of your dental fears and enjoy a healthy, lasting, and beautiful smile. So, continue reading to find out!
What Is Dental Anxiety?
Dental anxiety refers to the fealing of uneasiness or anxiousness whenever one has to undergo dental treatment. For some people, the anxiety is so severe that they cannot even step their feet into the dentist’s office.
Why Are Many People Afraid Of Going To A Dentist?
Dental anxiety and phobia can be of different types. For some people, fear of dental treatment stems from a previous painful or bad experience. Some are afraid that dental treatment will be painful or the anaesthesia won’t work, while others are afraid of the sound of dental needles or the sound of the dental drill. So, dentists have to manage each patient’s apprehensions and anxiety according to the underlying cause.
How Do Dentists Cope With Patients That Are Anxious Or Phobic?
Dentists have several tools under their belts to manage apprehensive or anxious patients. The first thing dentists do is have a frank conversation with their patients to identify the underlying cause. Once they know the root cause, they will take measures to eliminate it.
For example, if a patient feels that they don’t have any control during their treatment, dentists will use a technique called “tell, show, do”. In this technique, they will avoid any sudden movements and before performing any procedure, they will explain it to the patient and show how its done. In this way, there are no surprises for the patients that may make them anxious.
In other cases, dentists divert the attention of their patients by asking them to listen to their favourite music, or watch a movie while treatment is being done. Again, this helps the patient relax and foget about their treatment.
Another option available to dentists is sedation dentistry, which involves the administration of a medicament – through inhalation, orally, or intravenously – to make them drowsy but conscious enough to respond to the dentist’s instructions.
How Do You Talk To Your Dentist About Dental Anxiety?
As a patient, you should understand that your dentist is there to allay your fears and make you comfortable and relaxed during treatment. Therefore, you should discuss all your worries and apprehensions frankly with them. In this way, your dentist will be able to find a solution and help you relax while they are looking after your dental health.
Do Doctors And Dentists Hate To See Anxious Patients?
Dentists love their patients! They want to help you enjoy perfect oral health and a beautiful, attractive, charming smile. So, there is no way dentists hate anxious patients. In fact, they are even more helpful and courteous to apprehensive patients as they want to ensure they enjoy the same perfect oral health as patients without dental anxieties.
How Can You Not Be Scared To Go To The Dentist?
The best way to overcome dental fears is to talk to your dentist. Depending on the causes of your dental anxiety, they may suggest corrective strategies such as sedation dentistry or cognitive behavioural therapy. But, first, you must trust that your dentist has your best interest at heart, and they will do everything to ensure that you remain pain-free and relaxed when you visit them.
How Do You Combat Nerves Before Visiting The Dentist?
If you feel anxious about going to the dentist, you may ask them to prescribe you an oral medication to calm your nerves. You should take medicine the night before your visit and then half an hour before your appointment. This way, you will feel much more relaxed at the dentist’s office.
What Are My Options If I’m Terrified Of The Dentist?
Several options are available to eliminate your fear of dental treatment. For example, you could ask your dentist to perform the treatment under sedation. Alternatively, you may distract yourself by listening to music or enjoying a movie during your treatment.
How Can I Overcome My Fear Of Going To The Dentist?
The first step in overcoming your dental fears is realising that the dentist is your friend, and they are there to help. You should discuss your concerns with them openly, so they can suggest a suitable option to say goodbye to your dental worries. Another thing is realising that dentistry has come a long way! Today, there are potent anaesthetics available that will ensure complete pain relief. Besides, sedation dentistry has made things really easy for individuals who fear dental treatment.
How To Deal With Anxiety Regarding Daily Oral And Dental Care?
Some people have anxiety while performing routine oral hygiene procedures like brushing and flossing. If you are one of them, no need to worry; there are ways to eliminate your anxiety. First, you should brush your teeth when you feel most relaxed during the day. Alternatively, you may brush your teeth with a loved one or family member. This will help you distract yourself from your worries.
How To Get Over My Fear Of Being Judged If I Go To The Dentist?
Dentists are trained NOT to judge any patient based on their oral hygiene status or dental anxiety levels. So, you don’t have to worry; your dentist will not judge you. In fact, they will commend you that you mustered the courage to overcome your fears and sought dental help.
If you are looking for a gentle-dental office in Hornchurch, then Harrow Dental Practice and Dental Implant Centre should be your first choice. Why? Because we offer high-quality, gentle-dental services to our patients in a relaxed and comforting environment. Besides, our dentists are trained to treat anxious and apprehensive patients. So, what are you waiting for? Book an appointment today and say goodbye to your dental fears!