Many people may be embarrassed to admit to having dental anxiety, but it is experienced by a significant number of patients. Feelings experienced at the dental office can range from mild discomfort to a sense of dread and may be associated with an appointment in general or a specific dental procedure. Fortunately, patients can overcome their anxiety with the help of thoughtful dentists who employ effective strategies.
Dental anxiety comes in various forms and may be influenced by a variety of factors.
Many patients may have heard stories from friends, family or acquaintances. Some procedures such as root canals also have a reputation for being painful and/or troublesome even though that reputation is often based on false information.
Some patients may not have visited the dentist in a long time and may feel embarrassed about what the dentist may think about the condition of teeth. They may also have bad memories of insensitive remarks made by a hygienist or dentist about their teeth.
Patients who have experienced abuse often have dental anxiety. Being in the chair can invoke feelings of helplessness and being at the mercy of someone in authority. Kids who have been bullied may also have anxiety about going to the dentist, especially those who have experienced pain at a dental appointment with a dentist perceived to be uncaring.
A dentist can do little to ensure that people walking from the outside world into the office have no anxiety. However, there are ways to help patients cope.
The dentist who tries to have a conversation with a patient who cannot respond with more than a gurgle may be a cliche, but communicating with patients before, during and after a procedure is one of the most effective ways a dentist or hygienist can help patients with anxiety. These are examples of effective communication:
It may be as simple as agreeing on a "stop" signal, such as a hand wave or sign to hold up. Allowing the patient to have some control over the process can help relieve the feeling of being powerless.
Dental anxiety can be caused by myriad factors. Only by listening to the patient can a dentist hope to gain clues as to what causes the anxiety and then come up with effective strategies to help manage the fear.
Dental anxiety is a common struggle for many patients. It can be overcome by thoughtful dentists and hygienists who listen to and communicate effectively with patients and give opportunities for them to feel a sense of control during a visit.
Request an appointment here: https://smilefreshdentalgrandblanc.com or call Smile Fresh Dental at (810) 515-7083 for an appointment in our Grand Blanc office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Google: Read our Yelp reviews.
Dental anxiety is a common issue that affects people of all ages. This term refers to the fear, anxiety, or stress of dental visits. There are several misconceptions about dental anxiety, leading to additional fear or avoidance of necessary dental care. By separating facts from fiction, patients can better understand this condition and go to…
Choosing the right dentist for your family is crucial for maintaining long-term oral health. A family dentist provides comprehensive care tailored to meet the dental needs of every family member, from children to seniors. If you have been seeing a specialist or separate dentists for each family member's dental needs, it may be time to…
A restorative dentist can help transform dental health and restore confidence in your smile. These dental professionals address a variety of dental issues, from missing teeth to damaged enamel. The goal of restorative dentistry is to improve both the function and appearance of your teeth, allowing you to achieve better oral health and renew your…
Maintaining good oral health takes consistent care and the right dentist. A family dentist can handle the dental needs of everyone in the family, making it easier to get personalized care all under the same roof. Whether your child needs to go to their first check-up or seek ongoing treatment for older adults, family dentists…