How to Overcome Dental Anxiety

If you fear going to the dentist, please note that you are not alone. Feeling fear or anxiety is very common in adults when faced with the need for any kind of dental procedure. According to a recent study, more than 60% of dental patients feel some level of dental anxiety. At Smiley Pearls, our goal is to help every patient have an easy, relaxed and comfortable experience. We want to acknowledge that your anxiety related to dental care is very real.  We have helped many of our patients learn how to overcome dental anxiety and their fear of going to the dentist. If you experience dental anxiety, we would like to offer some helpful tips for managing your anxiety in order to help make your visit more successful. 

The truth is that due to dental anxiety, many patients avoid going to their regular hygiene appointments. As a result, many people who experience dental anxiety are more likely to be in poor oral health. Oral health is a critical component to your overall health and wellbeing, and we do not want you to forsake this care due to worry and fear.

According to a recent study, more than 60% of dental patients feel some level of dental anxiety.

– Dental Products report

6 TIPS TO OVERCOME DENTAL ANXIETY

#1: ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR FEARS.

It is important to start by asking yourself, “What am I afraid of?.” As with many things, acknowledging your feelings regarding professional dental care is necessary in order to understand how to address the fear in a healthy way. Be honest with yourself. Ask yourself: “Which part of my upcoming appointment or procedure is causing the anxiety?” Is it the idea of keeping your mouth open for extended periods of time? The fear of pain? The sound of the tools used? Is it that you don’t feel confident in your provider or the treatment plan? Being honest about your anxiety and then sharing your fears with your dental team is a helpful first step to overcome dental anxiety.

#2: SPEAK TO YOUR PROVIDER ABOUT YOUR ANXIETY.

Our dentist at Smiley Pearls in Sachse, TX, as well as our entire team of dental professionals want nothing more than for you to have an exceptional experience! Sharing your feelings will help to put you at ease and help to relieve your concerns. When you schedule your appointment, let our scheduling coordinator know about your fears. When you begin your appointment or consultation, share your questions, anxieties and concerns with the dentist. Our team of experienced providers will give you the personalized care and special attention you need to make your visit as calm and comfortable as possible. 

#3: BECOME FAMILIAR WITH YOUR SURROUNDINGS.

Sometimes anxiety is caused by lack of familiarity. Plan to arrive early to your appointment to give yourself time to become acquainted with the office. Giving yourself extra time to talk with the office staff will help you to relax before your visit. 

Don’t be afraid to ask questions – ask your provider about the different tools or treatments that will be used during your procedure. Ask about the technology. Our team will take the time to walk through the procedure, technology and instruments used with you. Understanding what is around you and steps that your provider will be taking during the procedure may help the entire experience to seem less intimidating.

#4: USE MINDFULNESS TECHNIQUES. 

Try relaxing by focusing on your mind and body. Here are some ideas to incorporate deep breathing exercises to help you feel more relaxed when the anxious feelings arise. First, count your breaths. Inhale slowly to the count of 5 and then exhale to the same number of counts. Do this 5 times while you are waiting for your appointment to begin or while you are sitting in the dental chair. 

Another way to relieve stress is to do a body scan. Concentrate on relaxing your entire body, one body part at a time. Start with your head and work your way down to your toes. For example, you can focus on releasing tension starting in your forehead, then your cheeks, your neck and down the rest of your body. 

#5: PRACTICE GOOD DENTAL HYGIENE.

In some cases, dental anxiety comes from a fear of failure. Practicing good dental and oral hygiene in between visits can give you greater confidence and awareness about your oral health…which creates a more positive atmosphere when arriving at your dental or oral healthcare providers office. You can eliminate that fear by starting new, healthy habits today. 

• Brush and floss twice daily. 
• Use mouthwash. 
• Avoid tobacco. 
• Swish or rinse your mouth with water after eating or drinking sugary or acidic foods or drinks. 

Not sure if your oral and dental hygiene habits are what they should be? Call us or talk with your provider at your next appointment so that you feel confident and empowered in your daily routine.

#6: AGREE ON A SIGNAL TO FEEL IN CONTROL.

Ultimately your dental or oral healthcare visit is YOURS. You may feel like you are at the mercy of the dentist or the hygienist, but the reality is that you are in control of your healthcare and your experience. Our team is trained to explain to you how you can signal to us at any time if you experience feelings of discomfort. Good healthcare providers will respond immediately to your concerns.

Managing your dental anxiety will involve a combination of the options listed here. If you are experiencing anxiety regarding any aspect of your upcoming appointment or procedure at our dental office, please let us know. If you are living with dental or periodontal pain and discomfort because of your fear of dental procedures, please call our office. Our Sachse, TX dentist, Dr. Chloe Chen, and our team at Smiley Pearls will be happy to do everything possible to alleviate your concerns and make your experience as comfortable as possible. Your health is worth it!