Dental anxiety is a common problem that almost everyone struggles with from time to time. Most people experience it before and during a procedure or appointment. While it may seem difficult to overcome, it is possible with the help of an experienced dentist. Continue reading to find out more!
Outlined below are a few ways that a dentist can help patients with dental anxiety. Review this information when preparing for an appointment or procedure.
One of the most common ways that a dentist will try to help with dental anxiety is by providing guidance and explanations. Guidance comes in handy for certain procedures that may be unknown to the patient. Having the dentist or dental assistant guide the patient through each step can be helpful in relieving dental anxiety, as much of it stems from fear of the unknown.
Additionally, the dentist can provide thorough explanations as to what the procedure may entail beforehand. Explanations allow the patient to have a better understanding of what is going to happen. This may help ease nerves and reduce dental anxiety that comes from not knowing what to expect.
A simple but effective way that a dentist can help with dental anxiety is by having the patient take breaks. Certain dental procedures and even routine appointments can be hard on the patient, especially when they are struggling with anxiety. Taking breaks every few minutes allows the patient to take a deep breath and relax momentarily. Breaks also allow the dentist to ask the patient if they are feeling okay, etc.
Distractions are ideal for reducing dental anxiety. Many dental offices are equipped with televisions to allow the patient to focus on something else during the appointment. It may also be suggested that the patient bring headphones to listen to music throughout the appointment, as this can be a distraction from what is happening. Additionally, music helps block out the unfamiliar sounds that may come from dental instruments.
In some cases, dentists can administer a sedative to help with dental anxiety. Of course, more advanced procedures will automatically involve the use of a sedative. However, for minor procedures or appointments, such as cleanings or filling placement, a low-level sedative, such as nitrous oxide, may be offered to reduce feelings of anxiousness.
When struggling with dental anxiety, it is important to know that working with a dentist can be helpful. Dentists are trained to not only perform the necessary oral care but also ensure that it is carried out smoothly, which means helping with dental anxiety. To learn more about dental anxiety and what a dentist can do, reach out today!
When Request an appointment here: https://alexoldtowndental.com or call Alexandria Old Town Dental at (703) 763-1078 for an appointment in our Alexandria office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Anxiety in Alexandria, VA.
Dental anxiety affects millions of people in the U.S. This anxiety can often prevent patients from getting treatments that can keep oral diseases like tooth decay and gum disease away or prevents them from getting worse. Dental phobias can be the result of previous bad experiences with dentists, or they can be caused by a…
The fear of the dentist, often known as dental anxiety, is the leading cause of untreated tooth problems, among other things. The following are a few questions that you can ask your dentist regarding dental anxiety. Perhaps the answers will help you join the group of patients who do not mind going to the dentist.Dental…
The fear of going to the dentist has long been a trope used in almost every medium of popular culture, but dental anxiety is a real problem for many people. An excessive nervousness or apprehension that builds before a dental appointment is not uncommon among many Americans. Even those who do not consider themselves to…
If you get nervous going to the dentist, you are not alone. Dental anxiety is a common problem that almost everyone struggles with from time to time. Most people experience it before and during a procedure or appointment. While it may seem difficult to overcome, it is possible with the help of an experienced dentist.…
A beautiful smile can be a powerful asset. It can affect first impressions, social interactions, and even your self-esteem. A cosmetic dentist improves the look of teeth and provides solutions to turn ordinary smiles into extraordinary ones. The treatment options typically depend on your preferences and needs.Patients looking to transform their smiles can book an…
A leading reason people turn to a cosmetic dentist is to get a whiter smile. Teeth whitening happens to be one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures. However, it is not the only way a cosmetic dentist can help you get a whiter smile. Here is a closer look at your smile-brightening options.Cosmetic dentists…