How a General Dentist Can Help with Dental Anxiety

If you suffer from dental anxiety, you are not alone. Many patients struggle with feelings of anxiousness and stress during dental appointments. You do not want to skip these visits, but it can be difficult to go when you feel this way. The good news is your general dentist can help you overcome these issues. Using a few different strategies, you can feel at ease and have more peace of mind in the office.

What people have dental anxiety about

Many patients do not look forward to going to the dentist’s office. Some people dread the thought of it. The anxiety is often around a fear of being in pain and discomfort during treatments and other procedures. This can be based on previous negative experiences or a perceived notion that it will be painful to have dental work.

Other people have anxiety over the sound and sight of the dental tools. There could be uneasiness and worry that the local anesthesia or sedation therapy will not work. Other patients have stress about feeling a loss of control over the situation. Another issue is feeling uncomfortable about people being close to their personal space. Some people may feel embarrassed or vulnerable.

Discussing the patient’s fears and needs

The first step to coping with dental anxiety is for the dentist and patient to talk about the issues. The patient can describe the anxiety — what causes fear and stress. This may include a discussion about problems that have occurred at previous appointments and how these made the patient feel. The more the dentist understands about the person’s anxieties, the more likely the dentist can provide the right help and relief.

Explaining what will happen at the appointment

Sometimes, people who struggle with dental anxiety just need to be aware of what the procedure entails. The dentist will walk the person through the process and what the patient can expect. The dentist may explain what the tools do, how long the procedure will last, what the benefits are, and how the person will feel afterward. The patient can ask questions about the procedure, and the dentist will take any concerns seriously.

Using pain-management techniques

Many dental procedures do not involve much pain and discomfort at all. Some, however, can be painful, especially if the person has severe oral health issues such as decay, infections, or disease. With most treatments, the dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the affected area. This can put the patient at ease, knowing they should not feel any pain during the process. People who need extra assurance may benefit from sedation methods such as nitrous gas or oral sedation.

You can feel positive about your visit

Regular dental checkups and treatments are essential. Unfortunately, you may want to put off these visits if you have dental anxiety. Your dentist can help you cope with these worries and fears. Discuss your concerns and struggles with your dentist. Your dentist is ready, able, and willing to help you have a good experience.

Request an appointment here: https://www.sacramentosleepdentist.com or call Dental Excellence of Greenhaven at (916) 293-0504 for an appointment in our Sacramento office.

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