Dental anxiety is very common, and causes many people to avoid the dentist entirely. There are many sources for such anxiety, from fear of judgment to not liking not being in control and more. Fortunately, there are methods for dealing with dental anxiety.
Here is what you need to know about common reasons why people have dental anxiety and what you can do to combat it.
Will My Dentist Judge Me?
For the condition of your teeth? Probably not! If you are rude or difficult to work with… Probably, yes, but for your (lack of) manners, not your teeth.
Dentists are here to help you, not judge you. Dentists love when patients come in for cleanings, because then they can see improvement or keep tabs on issues and prevent them from worsening. Restorative work fixes damage and decay, so don’t worry about if your dentist will judge you for having them – your dentist will more likely be glad to see them, as they indicate you had the decay treated.
Dentists understand how difficult it is for many people to even make the appointment. They want to help you however they can. Even dentists get dental problems, after all.
But I Haven’t Been To The Dentist In Years
If you haven’t been to the dentist in years, your dentist will probably be happy that you made the appointment to get your teeth checked. A good dentist won’t guilt-trip you about it, but will help you and do what they can to make going to the dentist easier for you.
They may ask you what’s deterred you from seeing the dentist in order to figure out how best to help you. If it was finances, more and more dentists offer financing options. If it was dental anxiety, many dentists offer sedation and other such options to help with dental anxiety. If you just don’t think dental cleanings are that important, your dentist will likely educate you about this.
But I Always Have Dental Problems
If you consistently have dental problems, your dentist and dental hygienist will work with you in order to figure out what’s going on. Even if you take stellar care of your teeth, you may still get cavities and the like.
This can be because of anything from the bacteria naturally present in your mouth to your genetics to underlying health conditions and more. You may also having seemingly harmless habits that are hurting your dental health, like snacking and sipping on beverages throughout the day, using your teeth as tools, and the like.
For instance, some people never get cavities even if they don’t care for their teeth because their genes are just that good, while others routinely struggle with dental problems due to genetic issues.
What If My Teeth Are The Worst My Dentist’s Ever Seen?
First off, this is highly unlikely. Dentists see all sorts of different dental issues. It is far more likely than not that your dentist has seen plenty of people with worse teeth than you.
If you don’t mind graphic images, you can do a Google search about the worst teeth. Even if your teeth match such pictures, you can take comfort in knowing that modern medicine has come a long way and your dentist can help you restore your teeth – and will probably delight in the challenge and in being able to help you smile again!
What Can I Do If I Suffer From Dental Anxiety?
#1. Let Your Dentist Know
First things first, let your dentist know! Dental anxiety is very common. Your dentist shouldn’t judge you for being anxious and should have options to help you. More and more dentists are offering sedation dentistry for this precise reason of helping people stay relaxed and calm throughout their appointment.
#2. Have Emotional Support
You may also consider taking someone with you for emotional support. This person can talk to you about your interests and things throughout your appointment. If you’re too anxious to talk to your dentist about your dental concerns, your loved one can relay your concerns to them for you.
#3. Bring A Distraction
You may also bring a distraction with you, like a stress ball, or ask your dentist if they have any distractions. Many dentist’s offices now have TVs in treatment rooms so that patients can get their mind off the treatment by watching a movie or show. You may also ask if it’s okay if you play music on headphones.
#4. Agree On A Signal
You can ask your dentist to agree on a signal if your dental anxiety is because you can’t talk or move during the procedure. That way, when you give the signal, your dentist will know to pause so you can take a break.
#5. Figure Out The Source Of Your Anxiety
Ask what you’re afraid of/what about the dentist is making you anxious. Is it fear of pain? Anxiety about some dental condition that would be expensive to fix? Embarrassment about the state of your oral health? A bad experience with a past dentist? Do you not like not being in control?
If you can pinpoint why the dentist makes you so anxious, you can work to combat this anxiety. Your dentist is here to help you however they can. For instance, if your dental anxiety is about fear of pain, your dentist may explain to you that dental treatments are meant to relieve pain, not cause it, and that anesthesia is used to ensure you can’t feel anything during a filling or root canal or other such treatments.
If your dental anxiety is severe, you may consider seeing a therapist. They will be able to work through your anxiety with you and help you overcome it.
Do You Need To Schedule A Dental Appointment?
Eric Felt, D.D.S., is here for you. We provide all sorts of dental services, from routine cleanings to emergency care. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you maintain your oral health.
