Dealing With Your Dental Anxiety

If you get goosebumps just thinking about setting a dental appointment, you may have dental anxiety. You are not alone if you suffer from this fear. Many Americans suffer from this nervousness about going to the dentist. Some people even have a full fear over it known as odontophobia. Dental anxiety can keep people from maintaining their necessary routine appointments, which leaves them at a higher risk for developing tooth decay and gum disease. Your dentist wants to help you work through your dental anxiety, so talking to your dentist and the office team can help you work through the problem. Dental sedation is an option for extreme dental anxiety. 

Pinpoint the Cause

Dental anxiety can spawn from several different causes. Perhaps you once had a traumatic experience while visiting the dentist. Maybe you fear pain or needles. Some people fear the cost or the bill after the treatment. Some people become embarrassed about the length of time since their last visit, which keeps them from going at all. Once you decide the source or sources of your dental anxiety, you can better work through it.

Talk It Out

Your dentist or their dental team are there to help you feel comfortable. If you have dental anxiety, talking it out with them can help you get through your treatment smoothly.

Distract Your Mind

During your treatment, it can be easy to focus on your fears or anxiety. This can result in a heightening of the fear or anxiety. Instead, trying counting your breaths, listening to music, thinking of your happy place like your favorite vacation spot, or even playing with a fidget spinner. Keeping your mind off of your nerves can help you get through your visit.

Dental Sedation

It is important to visit your dentist for regular checkups, cleanings, and for necessary treatment. If you talk to your dentist, they may recommend dental sedation. Depending on your needs, they can help pinpoint the right form of sedation to calm your nerves.

Don’t let dental anxiety keep you from treatment

Dr. Vahadi can help you deal with your dental anxiety. To schedule a consultation with Lone Star Dental Care in Frisco, TX, call 972-335-7100. We proudly welcome patients from Frisco and all surrounding communities, including Dallas, Plano, McKinney, Prosper, The Colony, Carrollton, Lewisville, and more.