Do you have a phobia just thinking about going to the dentist? If that’s the case, you are not alone. Dental anxiety is common among people of any age, and this fear has many causes. Because of a bad dental experience or a fear of discomfort, some people may avoid going to the dentist, which delays or avoids dental treatment. Additionally, some people can develop fear due to a loved one’s fear of the dentist or even the financial burden of dental care.
Anxiety about visiting the dentist or having difficulties sleeping the night before can also be signs of dental anxiety. Furthermore, when particular dental materials, such as the drill or anesthetic needle, are used, some people may develop dental anxiety. In some cases, even the dental office’s odor can cause tension.
Unfortunately, skipping dentist appointments due to fear will almost always result in later, more severe dental and overall health problems. The good news is that the fear of seeing a dentist can be tackled and overcome.
Dental Anxiety And Its Symptoms
An individual can express their dental anxiety in many ways. Some of the most common symptoms are mild anxiety, insomnia the night before an appointment, and “butterflies” in the stomach. Dental phobia, though, can frequently become considerably worse. The following are some of the symptoms of severe dental anxiety:
- Constantly thinking about future dental visits
- Nausea
- Increased heart or pulse rate
- Sweaty palms
- Crying, panic attacks, even at the thought of the dentist
- Breathing difficulties during a dental visit
How To Handle Dental Phobia
You can control dental anxiety by telling your dentist about your worries and having an open conversation with them about your dental issues. Our Oakville family dentist can then make adjustments to match your needs and work to improve the comfort of the dental setting so that you have a good experience by overcoming dental phobia.
1. Understand the procedure by asking your dentist.
Your dentist appointment can be less stressful if you are more informed about the procedure you need to undergo and what to anticipate. If you have any queries or worries regarding your treatment, your dentist can address them. Your visit to your dentist will be more pleasurable and less stressful if you interact with your dentist and dental staff.
2. Don’t go to your first appointment by yourself.
You may have the option of having company with you during your procedure if the dental practice allows it to make your experience more comfortable. As an alternative to bringing company inside the dental clinic, having them wait for you in the parking lot after your procedure can help relieve some anxiety.
3. Music is beneficial to calm your fear and anxiety.
While visiting the dentist, using distraction techniques like music on headphones might help you shift your attention away from the process and towards sights and noises that make you happy. Music can also mask sounds that cause anxiety, such as the drill.
4. Consult your dentist about sedation alternatives.
There are certain situations where sedatives may be appropriate, considering certain factors. Check with your dentist to see if local anesthetics, nitrous oxide or laughing gas, oral sedatives, or intravenous sedation are available and appropriate for your procedure.
5. Take a break using hand signals.
A pause during treatment may be beneficial whenever you are anxious or uncomfortable. Consult your dentist about using hand signals to communicate with them throughout a procedure to initiate when a break is required.
6. Use the medication as needed.
Ask your dentist if there are any options for medication to assist in managing anxiety if you have extreme fear or anxiety before going to the dentist.
7. Read a book or watch television.
A television may be available in some dental clinics, which can assist you in diverting your attention and reducing tension. Reading a book can help to decrease your stress level and keep your mind occupied with things other than a dental procedure.
8. Avoid caffeine before your next appointment.
Caffeine might make you anxious, so avoid it before going to the dentist.
9. Make it a habit of performing breathing exercises.
Using relaxation techniques like breathing exercises can be beneficial during dental procedures. Inhale deeply and release slowly to help relax your muscles and reduce stress.
10. Try choosing an appointment time that suits you and is less stressful.
Make your next dental appointment at a time that suits you best when you don’t need to rush or stressed out. An early morning appointment is the best to make you feel less stressed.
Finally, today’s dentist offices are friendly locations that specialize in keeping your smile bright and healthy in a painless manner. Use our dentist anxiety recommendations to help you get through your next dental appointment. So, please call 905-845-3211 to make an appointment with Dentistry on Dunn: Oakville Family Dentist to offer you a caring dental experience and brighten your smile.
Also Read: The Importance Of Regular Dental Check-Ups