Have you been delaying your visit to the dentist? Or maybe putting off that toothache, and not because of your busy schedule. Have you given thought that you might be having Dental Anxiety? Whether it’s the sterile smell or the sounds of the equipment drilling and buzzing, if your dental appointments stress you out, then you must read this blog. 

What is Dental Anxiety?

Dental anxiety is when a person feels fear, stress or anxiety associated with a dental setting. Now, dental anxiety could be triggered by instruments such as drills, needles or simply from a dental setting. 

In cases where dental anxiety is severe, it could cause irrational fear and make the person completely avoid dentists and dental treatment. This is known as Dental Phobia.

Common Causes of Dental Anxiety

There are many reasons why a person would avoid the dentist. Some of these reasons include the following:

• Previous traumatic or painful experiences

Dental related fear often stems from childhood. It could be caused by an unpleasant experience in the past or by listening to dental-related horror stories in the media. 

You should know that technological advancements in dentistry have made procedures less complicated. And best of all, most of the dental treatments are now considerably less painful and sometimes none at all. 

Trauma to the head and neck as well as traumatic experience which includes abuse could also lead to dental anxiety.

• Embarrassment

Some people might wait too long to get a toothache checked out or feel worried about how their teeth look. They may be scared that their dentist will judge them or give them bad news about their teeth.

• Fear of Needles

Many people are really scared of needles, especially when used in dental treatments. Some are also worried that the numbing medicine won’t work for them or it won’t start working before the dentist starts the procedure.

 

• Too Close For Comfort

Feeling out of control can be a big worry for many people at the dentist. Some don’t like how close the dentist or dental hygienist has to get to their face. Others may feel embarrassed or lose control while sitting in the dentist’s chair with their mouth wide open, not knowing what’s happening.

Also Read: WHY REGULAR DENTAL VISITS ARE IMPORTANT

 

Ways To Overcome Dental Anxiety

There are many strategies to help manage dental fear or phobia. It’s crucial to tell your dentist if you’re feeling anxious about your visit. Talking openly about what makes you anxious can help your dentist customize a plan that makes you feel more comfortable.

Here are some ways you can cope:

Deep breathing: This can help you relax.

Meditation: Helps calm your mind.

Distraction: Things like listening to music or using a device can take your mind off what’s happening.

Guided imagery: This is a technique where you picture yourself in a relaxing place.

Progressive muscle relaxation: This involves tensing and then relaxing each muscle group in your body.

Having a signal with your dentist: For example, raising your left pointer finger or hand when you need a break.

Using a weighted blanket: You can bring your own to help you feel more secure.

 

If needed, seeing a psychologist could be beneficial. Short, focused therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy can work really well.

For those with severe dental fear or phobia, there might be a need for medical help like “happy gas” (relative analgesia), medications to help reduce anxiety, conscious sedation (twilight sedation), or even being put to sleep (general anaesthesia).

 

So don’t risk your dental health or overall health because of dental anxiety, instead work towards overcoming it. Contact our dental experts at iDentify Dental Surgery in Faisalabad, and discuss your concerns with us. 

A healthy smile is only a call away, so contact us today.