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Some people do not look forward to dental appointments. Most dental procedures are not painful, but just being examined can make people feel stressed. If you fear the dentist, you are not alone. There is nothing to fear about going to the dentist for check-ups and procedures. Today, procedures are easy to perform and you will exhibit minimal to no pain at all. These anxieties can contribute to oral health problems, unless the problem is confronted and treated. Dentists have the ability to treat and calm patients with anxieties, making their appointment stress free. Reasons for Dental Anxieties The causes of dental anxieties are numerous and include factors both related and unrelated to dentistry. Common reasons contributing to dental anxiety and dental phobia include: • Fear of pain
• Feelings of helplessness and loss of control
• Embarrassment or shame about the look and condition of the teeth, as well as the fearful behavior itself.
• Past bad experiences which includes physically painful dental visits, but also psychologically uncomfortable experiences.
• History of abuse
• Observational or vicarious learning
• Post-traumatic stress
• Fear of needles
• Hopelessness that neglect or the condition has made it too late to do anything
• Adverse effects of medication or their ineffectiveness in providing relief from anxiety and pain Tips and Techniques for Overcoming your Fears If you have a dental anxiety, you should always communicate with your dentist. The best thing you can do to get over your dental anxiety is to talk with your dentist about it. If you are anxious about something, come right out and talk to your dentist about it. Your dentist is specially trained to handle anxious patients and to administer an appropriate treatment to help calm your nerves and put you at ease. During a procedure, talk with your hands. It is often difficult to speak with your mouth while you are undergoing treatment, so talk to your dentist before your procedure about how you will communicate if a problem arises or you feel discomfort. A simple raise of the hand could signal discomfort, allowing your dentist to adjust the anesthesia appropriately. Additionally, you can benefit from distracting yourself. Let your mind wander and try focusing on another thought or a feature that stands out in the office. Letting your mind wander can help ease some of your anxiety. Oral sedation is frequently used for many anxious dental patients and works extremely well. GA and IV sedation are appropriate for people receiving long and/or complex oral surgical procedures such as implants. If you suffer from dental anxiety, it is important to consult your Fort Wayne dentist to eliminate your fears. Your dentist will work with you to overcome your anxieties, allowing you to receive the treatment you need. There are many safe and comfortable techniques available for making dental care more acceptable for those who have anxieties, including the use of medication.
Sean Hartmen writes for Middleton Family Dentistry, a dentist in Fort Wayne, IN. Offering dental care in all phases of dentistry, including Cerec, and implants, this Fort Wayne cosmetic dentist is qualified to handle the oral health needs for patients of every age.
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