Many of us have anxieties. Some are afraid of heights. Others are afraid of water. And some, much to the dismay of your dentist in Milford, Ohio, are afraid of the dentist. And interestingly enough, dental anxiety is quite common—36% of adults have a fear of dental treatments. More so, 3% are so fearful of the dentist they avoid treatments altogether. This is not something we like to see. After all, your oral health is the gateway to your overall health. 

Let’s dig into what you can do to lessen that anxiety and make your visit to see us a bit more manageable.

What is dental anxiety?

As you probably figured out by now, dental anxiety is a condition where people are anxious about receiving dental treatment. This anxiety can manifest in several ways. Common signs and symptoms include feeling nervous or on edge before and during a dental visit, experiencing sleepless nights before an appointment, or having a sense of dread when thinking about the dentist. 

Some people might have physical symptoms, such as sweating, a racing heartbeat, or even feeling faint. It’s important to recognize these signs so that you can take steps to address them. Remember, dental anxiety is a valid concern, and you are not alone in feeling this way. 

So, what can you do to take control of your dentophobia (fear of the dentist)? We’re glad you asked. 

5 tips to tackle your dental anxiety.

The first step in managing your dental anxiety is acknowledging that it exists in the first place. Denying those feelings of fear and anxiety will simply get in the way of effectively addressing the problem. And the next step is understanding that your dental care needs to be a priority. When we skip out on our regular dental checkups (every six months), it can make us more susceptible to gum disease, tooth loss down the road, and other health conditions.

So, once you have acknowledged that you are afraid of the dentist, but you need to go, give these tips a try. 

1. Communication

It all starts with communication. By discussing your fears and anxieties with us, we can tailor our approach to meet your needs. We can explain each step of the procedure beforehand or offer frequent breaks if needed. 

Knowing that we understand and respect your concerns can significantly reduce your anxiety, making the entire experience more manageable. Don’t hesitate to share your feelings—we’re here to help you feel comfortable.

2. Distraction Techniques

Bringing headphones to your dental appointment can be a game-changer. Listening to your favorite music, podcasts, or audiobooks can be a welcome distraction during procedures. By focusing on something enjoyable, you can shift your attention away from the dental work and reduce feelings of anxiety. So, sign up for Audible or Spotify and download the latest and greatest for your listening pleasure. This simple technique can make your time in the chair feel shorter and way more enjoyable.

3. Deep Breathing Exercises

Deep breathing exercises, especially diaphragmatic breathing, can be a great way to calm your nerves. One simple technique is to inhale slowly through your nose for a count of four, hold your breath for a count of four, and then exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of four. 

Repeating this cycle several times can help slow your heart rate and promote a sense of calm. Try practicing this before and during your dental appointment to help manage your anxiety.

4. Sedation Options

For those with severe dental anxiety, discussing sedation options as part of general dentistry treatments with us might be the best course of action. There are several safe and effective sedation methods available, ranging from mild sedation, such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas), to stronger options, like oral sedatives or IV sedation. 

We can help you decide which method is appropriate based on your level of anxiety and the type of procedure you need. Sedation can help you feel more relaxed and ensure your dental care is as stress-free as possible.

5. Visiting During Quieter Times

Scheduling dental appointments during less busy times can create a more relaxed atmosphere. Early morning appointments or slots during mid-afternoon tend to be quieter and less hectic. With fewer patients around, the dental office may feel calmer, helping to reduce your anxiety. 

Pay attention to the time of day when you are naturally more relaxed, too. A peaceful environment can make a significant difference in how you feel during your visit.

Practice good oral hygiene daily to make dental checkups easier.

Whether you are afraid of the dentist or not, practicing good preventive dental care daily can help those dental checkups go a bit smoother. So, be sure to brush those teeth twice a day for two minutes at a time, floss between all your teeth at least once per day, rinse with a fluoridated mouthwash, and reduce your sugar consumption. Doing these things will help protect your teeth between visits.

Schedule your next dental appointment with CinciSmiles today.

Please don’t let your dental anxiety keep you away from your dentist in Milford. Our team of dentists and dental assistants are highly experienced in helping patients with all types of anxiety, and we’ll be sure to help put you at ease. Who knows, your appointment might go so well that you won’t feel so anxious the next time an appointment rolls around.

Give us a call to schedule your appointment at CinciSmiles.