Does visiting a dentist feel overwhelming to you? Well, you’re not the only one. You’ll be surprised to know that almost half of UK adults have a fear of the dentist to some extent, with one in seven British adults (which is 14% of the total population) suffering from severe dental anxiety. But, it is also important to understand that regular dental visits are crucial to maintaining optimal oral health and it is very much possible to overcome dental anxiety.
Let’s explore some of the common causes of dental anxiety.
Common Causes of Dental Anxiety
There are several reasons that might lead to dental anxiety. Some of them are as follows:
- Fear of pain
- An unpleasant experience in the past
- The embarrassment that your dental health is not up to the mark
- Panic and discomfort caused by the noise of the drill or other tools
- The discomfort of having someone’s hands in our mouth
- Loss of control or the fear of the unknown
So, it could be one of these reasons or a combination of them to blame for your dental anxiety. However, these seven tips may help you effectively tackle your fear of visiting a dentist regardless of the cause.
Choose the Right Dentist
Finding the right dentist can do wonders to tackle your anxiety. With them, you will feel more at ease and confident about the treatment you will be receiving. A dental practice that has had experience with patients who had a dental phobia and one with great reviews from existing patients and a relaxing ambience, can be a great choice.
We at Perfect Smile certainly fit the bill. In addition to providing the best dental care through treatments such as dental implants, Invisalign treatments, and root canals among others, we always strive to give our patients a relaxed atmosphere. Also, our caring and friendly staff makes sure that they get the best possible dental care.
Always Ask Questions
Asking questions can always help you resolve your concerns and discomfort. So make a point to voice them whenever you are visiting your dentist.
You can ask specific questions about the treatment you will be receiving and also about the instruments to be used in them. The dentist at a good dental practice like ours will always cater to your queries and concerns. We are always more than happy to let our patients be informed about the potential sensations that they might experience and help them have a comfortable time.
Do Not Visit Alone
It is always advisable to bring a friend or a loved one along whilst visiting your dentist. Having a supporting person on the stand-by can help you feel at ease considerably.
Also, if you are too anxious to ask any questions to your dentists, then your companion can voice them for you. This will ensure that you are aware of all the things included in the treatment, thereby helping you feel more confident.
Ask Your Dentist For Appropriate Sedation Options
In case you are suffering from extreme dental anxiety, it will be favourable to ask about the sedation options that may be appropriate for you keeping the treatment in mind.
Your dentist may decide to use gas or certain sedative medications to help control your anxiety. You can rest assured as these medications are completely safe and efficient in managing your anxiety. Moreover, your dentist will administer these medications with prior consultation with you and will plan a specific regime, customised to your particular requirements.
Distract Yourself
It can be difficult to take your mind off of the proceedings going around whilst you are at the practice. But, there are certain things that can help prevent your thoughts from running wild. These things include:
- Use of headphones. Listening to your favourite music or an audiobook can effectively divert your attention.
- You can bring along a blanket. It can help you feel relaxed and comfortable.
- Some dental practices are even equipped with televisions to help you stay distracted.
Use Relaxation Techniques
It is quite helpful if you get in the right mindset before the appointment. You can use several mindful techniques to help you stay calm and relaxed which include the following:
- Meditation
- Deep breathing techniques
- Visualisations
- Prayers
Let Your Dentist Know About Your Fears
We are often apprehensive about sharing our fears. But, when you visit your dentist for treatment, it is best to let your dentist know about your dental anxiety. Most dentists have a lot of experience in helping people with the same anxieties as you. So, letting them know beforehand can help them treat you accordingly.
Your dentist certainly wants you to feel comfortable and relaxed and hence, will provide you with all the personalised care and attention that you need.
We are Here to Help You
At Perfect Smile, we understand that feeling anxious when visiting a dental practice is not uncommon. So, we do things accordingly.
If dental anxiety gets in your way when making an appointment with a dentist, then rest assured; when you make an appointment with us, we will cater to all your needs in a personalised manner and make sure that you are relaxed and at ease throughout the visit.
We ensure to inform and educate our patients thoroughly about the treatment and procedures they will be going through, especially those suffering from dental anxiety. We provide them plenty of time to ask questions and feel confident about the treatment.
We are one of the most trusted dentists in the UK. We offer comprehensive dental solutions that include treatments such as general dentistry, dental implants and Invisalign in London.
Feel free to book an appointment with us or find your nearest practice and contact us today.