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Feeling a little apprehensive about going to the dentist? You’re in good company. Roughly 40% of American adults also get anxious about getting dental care – and some statistics say that up to 80% of us experience dental anxiety that ranges from mild to severe.
People get scared about going to the dentist for many different reasons, from fear of experiencing pain during treatment to embarrassment about their poor oral health, past trauma, the cost of care, and concern about getting a difficult diagnosis. Dental anxiety can result in people delaying dental care, compromising their mental, oral and overall health. Use the tips below to help you manage anxiety so that you can get the regular dental care you need.
The difference between dental anxiety and dental phobia
Before discussing coping tips, it’s important to be clear about the difference between dental anxiety and dental phobia. Dental anxiety is a common fear of dental procedures or treatments. You may experience symptoms such as sweating, rapid heartbeat, and/or shakiness, but ultimately, with support and the help of relaxation techniques or other coping mechanisms, you will still be able to go to the dentist and get the care you need.
People with dental phobia may experience extreme anxiety or panic attacks when faced with the prospect of going to the dentist. They may avoid dental appointments altogether, for years, even if they are in significant pain. Symptoms of dental phobia may include sweating, palpitations, shortness of breath, and full-blown panic attacks. You may need therapeutic help to manage a phobia. Some potential treatments may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), sedation dentistry with oral medications or IV sedation, or even hypnotherapy.
Tips to reduce dental anxiety
Ask for support
Sometimes simply making an appointment to see a dentist can feel overwhelming. If so, consider asking your partner or a friend to make the appointment for you, and perhaps come with you to your dentist appointment.
Be up front about anxiety
You or your support person should let the dental practice know that you have dental anxiety when you make the appointment. You can ask for their help in figuring out how to manage anxiety – what do they recommend?
Be specific, if needed
If your anxiety focuses on a particular issue – maybe it’s needles, pain, or trauma – let the dental staff know about that too.
Ask about consultations
Dentists may offer an initial consultation that doesn’t involve sitting in the dental chair, to discuss your needs and concerns and how the practice works with people who have dental anxiety. If you feel that could be helpful, ask about it when making an appointment.
Don’t be ashamed
If you’ve been avoiding seeing the dentist for years, your teeth are likely not in the best shape. Your dentist knows that there are a lot of reasons that keep people from getting regular checkups and cleanings. They are very unlikely to make you feel bad about your oral health – instead, your dentist will be understanding and do their best to put you at ease. If you don’t feel good about the care you’re getting, move on to another dentist.
See a “nervous patient” dentist
All dentists are accustomed to helping people manage their dental anxieties, but some focus their practice on working with people who have anxiety or phobias that affect their ability to get dental care. They may offer pre-treatment medication to help ease your nerves, sedation during procedures, and other techniques proven to make dental care an easier experience.
Identify triggers
If lack of control over what’s happening to your body sparks anxiety for you, let the dentist know. In particular, dentists who work with anxious patients are accustomed to explaining everything they are doing, and getting your permission before doing it.
Tell the dentist what you need
Dentists often will make great suggestions that can help you stay calm during an appointment. Feel free to share your ideas as well. For example, using a specific hand signal to indicate you need to stop for a moment can be helpful.
Prep for your appointment
Maybe you would like to listen to a specific playlist or an audiobook, or watch a video while you’re getting treatment. Perhaps you want to start practicing deep breathing exercises before your appointment. Consider what might help you feel more comfortable.
Reduce financial fears
Concerns about being able to afford dental care can cause anxiety, especially if you are expecting a big bill. One way to alleviate financial stress is by knowing you have a way to reduce the cost of care.
Dental savings plans are an affordable alternative to dental insurance, providing plan members with savings of 10-60% at the dentist on most dental procedures, including preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dental care. If you’d like to learn more about how dental savings plans work, and find the plan that can get you the best care at the best value, call us at 1-833-735-0399. You’ll see how simple and worry-free dental care can be.
