How to Deal With Dental Anxiety

Dental anxiety can affect everyone, from little ones who don’t fully understand this new environment and situation, to adults who know very well why they need an appointment.

Unfortunately, dental anxiety can be difficult to manage, and even push people to avoid seeing the dentist for a long time, until their dental problems become much worse. If you or your child have dental anxiety or are otherwise not comfortable with the dentist, here are a few ways to properly handle it:‍

1. Talk to Us About It

There is no shame in dental anxiety. The best thing you can do to help yourself and still access the essential dental services you or your child need is to simply discuss these anxieties with your dentist.

We can help you prepare for your appointment and procedures and discuss your options. When you know exactly what follows, you can have a much better time navigating the appointment.

2. Try to Come to Your Appointment Relaxed

Stress can unfortunately make your anxiety a lot worse. As a result, we always recommend to our more anxious patients to do something relaxing before their appointment to help them have a calmer disposition when they come to the office.

You can try listening to music, reading, painting, or any other activity you know helps to calm your nerves.

3. Come for a Talk First

This is a great way to get more familiar with the environment, especially for children who might not be too comfortable in new places right away, though adults are more than welcome to a visit as well!

During this appointment, you can get to know the practice, staff, and even talk to your dentist about your needs, concerns, and even anxieties.

4. Consider Your Sedation Options

Sometimes, relaxation techniques or chats aren’t enough to curb someone’s dental anxiety. In such moments, know that you still have options that will allow you to access essential dental care: sedation.

For instance, at We Care Dental Care we offer 2 types of sedation:

• Laughing Gas - Especially popular for children because it is a form of mild sedation, and it’s perfectly safe. The gas is inhaled right before the procedure and helps keep patients calm, and sometimes a little giggly.
• Oral Conscious Sedation - We administer special medication before the procedure to help keep the patient relaxed and calm during the appointment. Like with laughing gas, the patient remains fully awake during the procedure.
  

Fear of the Dentist Stopping You from Getting Treated? Come to We Care Dental Care!

If you or your child suffer from dental anxiety, We Care Dental Care will do everything we can to make sure you can both safely receive essential dental services.

Book an appointment with Dr. Benjamin Burkitt online, or call us at 540-427-7274 to find out more about our sedation options and other services.