Dental Anxiety: Tips for Overcoming Fear of the Dentist

Dental Anxiety: Tips for Overcoming Fear of the Dentist

Preventive dental treatment and good oral health might be hampered by dental anxiety. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to address this. 

What is Dental Anxiety?

Dental anxiety is the result of attaching negative emotions to an impending dental appointment. Unease, concern, panic, terror, anxiousness, or another type of fear could be the negative emotion. Dental phobia is the term used to describe extreme anxiety related to visiting the dentist. You can also book your appointment with our weekend dentist to ensure you understand everything about oral health properly and get rid of dental anxiety.  

What Causes Anxiety About the Dentist?

The main feeling that underlies dental phobia is fear. But dental phobia is a multifaceted condition with a range of underlying reasons.

  • Fear is brought on by unpleasant memories. A traumatic childhood experience can cause fear at the dentist for the rest of your life. Horror stories from other people might also set you off, making you fear pain and distrust dentists. 
  • Dentistry instrument phobia. If you’re unfamiliar with the tools that a dentist in Kingsway uses, such as tooth drills, suction devices, and needles, you may find them daunting.
  • Fear of negative consequences. A fear of possible anesthetic side effects exists in certain people.
  • Fear of anesthesia failing to act. Some are concerned that the anesthesia won’t be effective in minimizing pain during the dental operation.
  • Fear of losing one’s grip. When reclining in a dentist chair, having their privacy violated and being unable to see what’s happening, it’s normal for patients to feel powerless.
  • Dread of looking foolish. Many are anxious about being judged on the condition of their dental health, having their teeth inspected, and having poor breath.
  • Fear in general. Even if there is no obvious reason for your fear, it can keep you from receiving the necessary dental care.

Tips for Dental Anxiety 

Choose the dentist that is best for you.

The most important thing is to choose a trustworthy dentist near you who specializes in treating patients who experience anxiety or fear when visiting the dentist. Choose a dentist that not only gives you excellent care but also receives favourable comments from their current patients.

Express your fear.

Expressing your emotions to your dentist in Edmonton and being clear about your dental phobia can make a big difference. Talking about your anxieties could help you get over them and stay comfortable. 

Deviations could be beneficial.

You can view movies, videos, and other media on the clinic’s television, if there is one. If not, you can use your smartphone or tablet. Try using techniques for divergence to help you de-stress, including listening to your preferred podcasts, audio files, and playlists. You can even use conversions as a diversion from dentist anxiety.

Practice taking deep breaths.

In certain circumstances, breathing is the key to being composed and at ease. Our bodies can undergo physiological changes when we breathe, such as a decrease in blood pressure and a slowing of the heartbeat. It is also possible to reduce the blood stress level.

Bring a companion with you.

Sometimes all you need is a friend to hold your hand and tell you that everything will work out. If you’re anxious about going to the dental clinic, ask a friend or family member to go with you. You are welcome to have a friend sit next to you in the procedure room.

Our Dentists Can Help

It is not hard to get over your fear of teeth. You should never let your fear of the dentist stop you from practicing good oral hygiene. It’s critical to discuss your worries with others, see a dentist open on Saturday near you, and be honest about your fear. 

Use these suggestions to get rid of anxiety and see our dentist at Affinity Dental Kingsway on a regular basis to maintain good oral hygiene.