How to Overcome Dental Anxiety

A recent survey found that as many as 1 in 5 adults had purposely cancelled an appointment or avoided going to the dentist. Fear of needles, painful procedures, or embarrassment regarding their oral health, were the top reasons given by people with this dental anxiety.

Unfortunately, this starts a vicious cycle as your dental health worsens without help from a dentist. Then, your teeth will require more complex, and often more invasive, treatments. This can cause more anxiety, so you put off the treatment yet again, making the situation even worse.

To help you avoid the vicious cycle, we’re going to share a few techniques that will help you lower your anxiety and get the dental treatment you need.

How to Cope with Dental Anxiety

Talk to your dentist

Anxiety is often based on a lack of knowledge. So, talking to your dentist is one of the best ways to alleviate dental anxiety. Your dentist is there to help. They want to tell you about the needs of your teeth and show you how to accomplish those goals. So, ask your dental care provider to explain what your options are and they can ease any pain or discomfort.

Learn self-calming techniques

Deep breathing, dwelling on positive things, practicing body-stillness - all of these can help you let go not only of your dental anxiety but general anxiety as well. You can practice any of these techniques at home, or wherever you feel comfortable. For dental anxiety in particular, we recommend practicing in a recliner, or propped up in bed with pillows, to simulate being in the chair at the dentist.

Ask for sedation

In the event your teeth require a more complicated procedure, don’t be afraid to ask for sedation. From mild to strong, local to general, your dentist is trained to administer such pharmaceuticals. They can advise you on what is best given your own tolerances as well as what will best suit the necessary procedure.

Remember, dental anxiety affects many people from all walks of life. The first step to keeping your oral health strong is to speak to your dentist for more information about your options. You are not alone!