Ways To Deal With Dental Anxiety

Posted by Lone Star Dental Care Jul 31, 2017

If you get nervous just thinking about going to the dentist, you are not alone. Dental anxiety is very common. Fear over going to the dentist can actually prevent many people from following through with an appointment. Dental anxiety can keep you from maintaining routine checkups and regular treatment, which increases your risk of tooth decay and complications from that tooth decay. A common reason for dental anxiety is that the patient worries that it has been too long since their last visit. The anxiety causes them to continue to procrastinate which can exacerbate the whole cycle. If you have have dental anxiety, there are ways to cope so that you can get the care you need.

Determine the source of your stress

Are you one of those people who worry that it has been too long since your last appointment? Are you worried about pain? Do needles scare you? Did you have a bad dental experience in the past? Are you concerned for financial reasons? Do you get anxious thinking about a serious diagnosis? Whatever the reasons for your nerves are, it is best to identify them.

Talk it out

Once you identify what makes you nervous, you can talk to your dentist. Your comfort is paramount. He or she can work with you to address any concerns that you have. Your dentist and their team may be able to help ease your nerves. If you and your dentist cannot help you calm your nerves by addressing specific issues, you may be a candidate for sedation.

Sedative options

Depending on your level of anxiety, your dentist may treat you with a sedative. Minor anxiety can usually be assuaged with nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas). It is mild enough that it can be used on children. It soothes the nerves while keeping you awake and alert. If your anxiety is severe, stronger sedatives in the form of an IV, pill, or liquid may be prescribed.