Reduce Anxiety – Feeling apprehensive, scared, or even out of control during a dental visit is a common phenomenon known as dental anxiety. Research estimates that approximately 36% of the population suffers some degree of dental anxiety, with nearly 12% considered to have a clinical dental phobia. While the thought of dental drills, needles, or unfamiliar tools may trigger discomfort, neglecting to attend a dental appointment can worsen one’s oral health during the long term.
Fortunately, calming your anxiety symptoms prior to your appointment is possible. The steps outlined below can help you manage your anxiety, regardless if it is mild or severe, and feel empowered as you approach the dentist’s chair.
1. Understand the Source of Your Fear
The first and most essential step in addressing dental anxiety is figuring out what exactly discomforts you. Is it the whirring of the drill? The anticipation of pain? A prior unpleasant encounter? Or perhaps a feeling of no longer having control?
Identifying the cause enables you to find solutions to overcome the discomfort along with your dentist. For instance, if moving tools and drill creates fear, the appointment can begin with a discussion addressing pain management such as using stronger anesthetic options.
- If it happens to be the sound issue, noise cancelation headsets might be beneficial.
- If it is offered gently and calmly explained verbally, your dentist can resolve it.
2. Find the Proper Dentist
Every dentist does not treat patients with anxiety the same. Seek one who has a reputation of successfully treating nervous patients and has a quiet and soothing environment.
- Peruse the online ratings concentrating on the convenience of patients.
- Ask your friend or relative for a referral.
- Contact the clinic in advance to confirm if they deal with the anxious patients and if they practice sedation dentistry.
Being relaxed with the dentist is important in alleviating fear.
3. Use Relaxation Techniques Prior to the Appointment
Participating in relaxation activities can greatly reduce anxiety. Practicing the following techniques can be beneficial.
- Deep breathing: Inhale for four seconds, hold for four seconds, exhale for six seconds. Do this until the self-calming target is achieved.
- Progressive muscle relaxation: Relax differing muscle groups in your body, starting with your toes to your head.
If you notice your body tensing up, you may utilize these techniques during treatment.
4. Bring a Distraction
Redirecting your thoughts away from the dental environment can significantly alleviate anxiety. Consider:
- Using a stress ball or fidgeting with a small toy.
- Listening to soothing music or audiobooks via headphones.
- Watching a movie or TV show on the screen above the chair, if available.
Focusing on these activities can greatly distract from worrying about potential discomfort.
5. Talk to Your Dentist
Providing information to your dentist about your anxiety is one of the most important ways to manage anxiety. You can:
- Let your dentist know what specifically you are concerned with during the appointment.
- Agree to “stop” signals, raise your hand, or other agreed-upon signals if discomfort is felt.
- Step-by-step verbal explanations of what is going to be done next can be provided.
- Longer procedures can be broken up with time-outs.
Most dentists appreciate when patients communicate their concerns and are direct, which allows the dentist to adapt.
6. Choose Your Appointment Time Wisely
If you tend to feel calm during specific hours of a day, use that information when choosing times of your dental appointment.
Many feel that morning time appointments lower anxiety when compared to other times, as there is less time available to ruminate on the visit.
- Do not book during busy and high stress periods at work.
- Allocating extra time to arrive at the clinic helps to prevent undue stress.
- When the day tends to be less busy, it is easier to remain calm.
7. Think About Sedation Dentistry
Severe anxiety may need considering sedation dentistry. This may include:
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is classed as mild sedation which keeps you relaxed but still fully awake.
- Oral sedative is medication you take prior to the appointment which helps anxiety.
- IV sedation is deeper relaxation reserved for more complex treatments.
Discuss with your dentist which method may work for you. For most people, sedation is safe, and can greatly reduce anxiety, making a difficult visit more manageable.
8. Consider the Advantages
Shifting your mindset can prove beneficial. Rather than recalling the discomfort, think of what the visit helps you achieve:
- Management of gum disease and cavities.
- A bright and healthy smile.
- Invasive treatments in the future are less likely.
A healthy mouth supports the body and reduces risks of heart disease, complications from diabetes, and infections.
9. Bring a Support Person
If permitted, consider inviting a family member or a close friend to accompany you to the appointment. That presence can be emotionally soothing and can help you to alleviate any apprehensions.
10. Treat Yourself After Your Appointment
Having a reward to look forward to after your appointment can help reduce anxiety associated with the appointment. Try to schedule a reward like your favorite meal, a coffee, or an activity you find relaxing. This form of positive reinforcement can be beneficial in overcoming anxiety for future appointments.
Final Thoughts
Dental anxiety is a challenge, but not one that you need to manage by yourself. Through proactive preparation and effective communication with your dentist, along with guided imagery and deep breathing exercises, your experience can shift from overwhelming to more doable. Consistent dental appointments and the right mindset is essential for your dental health.
FAQs
1. Is dental anxiety common?
It is. A lot of individuals feel anxious prior to dental visits. The focus should be on acceptance and steps that can be taken to address the issue.
2. Can my dentist assist in alleviating my fears?
Definitely. Many dental practitioners understand how to help anxious patients and can provide explanations, techniques, and even sedation options.
3. Is full unconsciousness the goal for sedation dentistry?
No. Most sedation techniques only permit you to truly relax, where deeply dozed off but still aware. Full unconsciousness only occurs with general anesthesia.
4. And if I have a panic attack mid-appointment?
It’s better to tell your dentist about your panic attacks history. Together, you can work out breaks, a code, and techniques for calming down if panic takes hold.
5. What can you do the night before your dental appointment?
Aim for a well-rested night, skip the pre-appointment caffeine, use calming techniques, remember pre-appointment distractions, plus any music you plan to bring.
6. Is it plausible that, for most people, dental checkups will become easier with time?
Yes, for most people. Positive experiences help replace fearful associations, and that can relieve stress for future visits.
