Dental anxiety is a common issue that affects 9% to 20% of people. Severe dental anxiety can lead to avoidance of dental care, which can have negative consequences for oral health.
What to do about dental anxiety? Here are some strategies to address and manage dental anxiety:
1. Choose a Compassionate Dentist: Find a dentist who is known for their empathy and understanding. A good dentist will:
- take the time to listen to your concerns
- answer your questions
- work with you to make your experience as comfortable as possible
2. Communication: Be open and honest with your dentist about your fears and anxieties. Discuss your concerns before the appointment, so they can tailor their approach to your needs.
3. Gradual Exposure: If you have severe dental anxiety, consider a gradual exposure approach. Start with simple, non-invasive procedures like cleanings and check-ups, and work your way up to more complex treatments if necessary.
4. Relaxation Techniques: Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or visualization to help calm your nerves before and during dental appointments.
5. Desensitization: Some individuals find it helpful to desensitize themselves to dental procedures by watching videos or reading about dental treatments. This can demystify the process and reduce fear.
6. Bring a Buddy/Family Member/Support Person: If it helps, bring a trusted friend or family member with you to your dental appointment for emotional support.
7. Distraction: Use distraction techniques like listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks during your appointment to take your mind off the procedure.
8. Counseling or Therapy: Consider seeking counseling or therapy to address the underlying causes of your dental anxiety, especially if it is severely impacting your life. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective in treating specific phobias like dental anxiety. Excellent apps that may address the issue are:
- ACT Companion/The Happiness Trap https://www.actcompanion.com
- Woebot https://woebothealth.com
9. Regular Dental Visits: Try to maintain a routine of regular dental visits. This can help prevent dental problems from becoming more serious, reducing the need for more invasive procedures.
At All Family Dental we do have special Anxiety cushions by the educational company Giant Microbes. They explain the condition and you can hold on to the cushion as a token of support during your dental visit. https://www.giantmicrobes.com/us/products/anxiety.html
Take the steps above to address your dental anxiety and you can maintain good oral health and reduce the stress associated with dental visits.
Make an appointment
Schedule a quick appointment by giving us a call or text 754-300-9592. We offer one of the most spacious dental offices you can find in South Florida, with completely private exam rooms! This adds to your enjoyable experience.
Updated: 09-24-2023