Scared of the dentist? Learn how to overcome your dental fears

We’ve all been there. Those anticipatory nerves as you walk through the door and then your stomach drops when your name is called. Not to mention the racing thoughts as you’re blinded by the light while being poked and prodded by sharp tools.

Dental fear is very real and very common.

Common symptoms include rapid heartbeat, anxiety, sweating, shortness of breath, or fainting. These fears keep many people from getting regular dental care.

However, this avoidance can cause serious, long-term health problems. Advanced Cosmetic & Family Dentistry is here to support you through this process! Read on to learn more about common dental fears and how you can combat them.

Some common dental fears 

Dental fears can often stem from broader fears or bad childhood experiences at the dentist. Fears flood into many areas of our lives and traumatic childhood experiences at the dentist can easily be ingrained into the brain. They tend to find a way to create long-term effects.

These can show up as:

• fear of needles

• fear of loud noises

• fear of pain

• fear of gagging/choking

• the need for and/of lack of control

There is a reason why dentists ask that we come in for frequent check-ups. Tooth and gum issues can be very seriously neglected.

Unfortunately, for people with dental fear, rescheduling appointment after appointment may only increase the time spent in the office. It’s an endless cycle. So is it possible to create a healthy mindset for a peaceful visit?

Do not despair…the answer is yes!

We’ll look at some practical ways to change your mindset and get you smiling for your dentist appointment again!

Taking note of office advancements and improvements

Dentists have come to realize that this fear affects many people. They have taken steps to ensure a more pleasant experience. They have created offices with bright, cozier spaces, friendly faces, art, and quiet music, or even TVs.

Technology has also advanced. Tools have become quieter, more efficient, and less painful. Anesthesia is provided with a new device that also decreases pain.

In addition, dentists are open for conversations ahead of time to address fears. They are open to talk and answer any questions regarding the process or equipment.

Advanced Cosmetic & Family Dentistry we believe in gentle dentistry. Our gentle dentists are happy to walk through any fears or questions you may have. We want you to feel comfortable.

Taking note of office advancements and improvements

Dentists have come to realize that this fear affects many people. They have taken steps to ensure a more pleasant experience. They have created offices with bright, cozier spaces, friendly faces, art, and quiet music, or even TVs.

Technology has also advanced. Tools have become quieter, more efficient, and less painful. Anesthesia is provided with a new device that also decreases pain.

In addition, dentists are open for conversations ahead of time to address fears. They are open to talk and answer any questions regarding the process or equipment.

Advanced Cosmetic & Family Dentistry gentle dentists are happy to walk through any and all fears or questions you may have. We want you to feel comfortable.

Combatting your fear

Fear can be paralyzing and give the illusion that everything is out of your control. Naturally, part of getting over fears is making use of the things that you can control.

Some other practical steps to minimizing your fears include:

• Making early appointments- If you don’t have to let the fear grow all day while you wait in anticipation of your appointment, don’t! Schedule a morning appointment time and move onto the rest of the day.

• Communicate with your dentist if you need a break- Both checkups and procedures can be uncomfortable and seem long. There is nothing wrong with taking a small breather in between. Establish a sign of sound that lets him/her know you need a break.

• Ask your dentist if their office uses numbing assistance – Many dentists are utilizing a newer, less painful computerized injector used to numb patients. If not, ask for a gel that will numb the mouth before a needle is injected.

• BYOM- (Bring Your Own Music!) Bring a set of earphones and turn on your favorite tunes. This will establish familiarity and relax the brain.

• Talk to a Counselor – Many have practical techniques and breathing exercises to calm your body and turn off the fear response in your brain. Others have used techniques such as mental imaging and self hypnosis to accomplish this. They are there to help.

• Anything else? If all else fails and your fears are still paralyzing, ask the dentist if laughing gas, needle-free anesthesia or IV sedation could be applied during the appointment.

Our dentist office in Alpharetta, GA goes above and beyond in comfort. We want our patients to relax and feel comfortable. We offer a range of amenities you simply won’t find in other dental offices.

When in our care, you can enjoy:

• Heated massage chairs

• Warm comfort pillows

• Blankets

• Supportive neck and back pillows

• Nitrous oxide

• Virtual reality glasses

• Bottled water

• Music

• An extensive movie list

• Bose® noise canceling headphone

• Lip balm

• Mouth props

• Warm face cloths (scented)

• Eye protection

Dental fear can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. It may seem easier to avoid the situation altogether.

However, dental health is extremely important and should not be neglected. Use practical ways to shift your mindset and regain control over your fears. Our dentists are here to help. Don’t let fear stop your dental health.

You can always count on Advanced Cosmetic & Family Dentistry

We are so grateful you have trusted your dental care to us. We count that not only an honor, but a responsibility!

To that end, you can trust us to walk with you through any dental fears or anxieties from start to finish. Call us today at (678) 551-6864 to schedule your appointment. We look forward to meeting you and your family soon.

Resources:

https://www.healthgrades.com/right-care/oral-health/common-dental-fears-and-how-to-overcome-them?cid=63emHLN101920DEN&elqTrackId=58C5FF67103CF2FD4173FEF2AC9824D9&elq=230042c413db49ef95780e5a16969711&elqaid=4280&elqat=1&elqCampaignId=2180

Posted by Advanced Cosmetic and Family Dentistry
4205 North Point Parkway, Building D, Alpharetta, GA 30022
Phone: (678) 551-6864