Easing Dental Anxiety: Coping Methods that Can Help

Dental phobia is the fear of visiting the dentist. Experiencing dental phobia can keep you from getting needed dental care. This fear may make you think that dental care is painful or that something will go wrong. If you are someone with dental anxiety, here are a few tips to ease your fear.

Speak up about your fears

Talk to your dentist about your anxiety or fears before your appointment. You don’t have to be embarrassed! Your dentist has seen many patients just like you and will be happy to discuss your concerns and help you feel more relaxed. Perhaps you can even speak with your dentist ahead of time about the process, so you’re already prepared when you arrive for your appointment. If you’re nervous before your procedure, mention this to the dentist. He or she may be able to help you relax during the appointment or at least recommend some strategies to help you cope.

Agree on a signal

If the dentist uses needles or drills that cause you to feel anxious, agree on a signal with the dentist beforehand. The dentist can pause the procedure to give you a hand signal, raise a hand in the air, or make a sign. Knowing there’s a plan in place can help you breathe a little easier during your appointment.

If a procedure is especially lengthy or uncomfortable for you, don’t be afraid to speak up! It’s normal for your anxiety to increase as appointments drag on and on, so if you feel yourself starting to get worked up, let your hygienist know so they can stop right away.

Take a trusted person with you

Use these tips to help yourself feel more at ease when having dental work done. Sometimes just hearing that a friend or family member is nearby can ease your mind and help you be more open about what you’re feeling and experiencing in the chair. Having someone to talk to and distract yourself with will help you relax during the appointment. Plus, you’ll have a built-in support system afterward. Consider asking a friend or family member to come with you to the appointment. They can listen to your needs and help you during your treatment. 

Bring distractions

Distractions help take your mind off the procedure at hand. They also give you something else to focus on while the dentist works on your teeth. Make sure to bring headphones or your favorite music to your appointment. Consider bringing a book, magazine, music, or something else that you find soothing.

Consider sedation dentistry

If a patient is feeling particularly nervous or anxious before a dental procedure, they can consider talking to a dentist to see if sedation dentistry is right for them. There are a number of options available for sedation, including nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation. This type of approach can help patients have a more positive experience at their appointments. It can also lower their stress levels and reduce their anxiety levels.

Sedation can also help patients who suffer from medical conditions such as high blood pressure, severe allergies, Parkinson’s disease, and others. Some patients have very sensitive teeth and may require special care during treatment. A dentist may offer them a form of sedation to help them get through the appointment without pain.

If you would like to know more about what our dental treatments entail and what your options are, give us a call at (760) 804-0080 or schedule an online appointment to visit our dental practice in Carlsbad, CA.