You were probably told from an early age that you need to visit the dentist often. We recommend seeing us roughly every six months. But we know that sometimes life gets in the way, and it’s less frequent.
If you live with dental anxiety, you might see us less frequently. In fact, you may avoid checkups altogether and live in the hope you won’t need treatment. Dental phobia or anxiety are very real problems faced by many.
But if you ever face dental issues, we want to help. If you’re scared of the dentist, you may miss out on essential care, and your problems could worsen.
In this guide, we’ll discuss the causes of dental anxiety and share some simple strategies for fighting your fears so you can see us without the stress.
What Causes Dental Anxiety?
Dental anxiety can have several causes. You may have had a negative experience at the dentist at any point in your life, this can naturally make you weary about returning.
Sometimes dental anxiety is learned from family members. If you grew up around someone who had a phobia of going to the dentist, you may have picked up your fear from them.
Occasionally, dental fears are part of a wider, generalised anxiety. If you suffer from mental health problems or low confidence, you may face personal challenges around going to the dentist.
How To Deal With Your Fear of the Dentist
Work Out What You’re Scared Of
Sometimes, you may know you’re anxious about something but not really know why. Identifying the specific things you dislike or are scared of can help.
Everyone is unique, and you may have different worries and fears around your dental appointment from other patients.
Although the perceived pain and discomfort associated with treatment are understandable worries, you might not like the feeling of powerlessness you experience in the dental chair. It could be the clinic’s smell or the sound of the tools we use.
Some people dislike the feel of latex gloves, are uncomfortable being close to their dentist, or feel embarrassed about their teeth’s health.
Talk To Us
If we know you’re anxious about your appointment, there are things we may be able to do to help. This might include taking things a bit slower, checking in on you more often while we treat you, providing distractions, or adapting elements of the treatment where possible.
We understand dental anxiety and want you to feel comfortable while you’re in the clinic so you can get the care you need.
Don’t Come Alone
You don’t have to come to your appointment on your own. Bringing a friend, partner, or family member can help you feel more comfortable, and they can provide support and reassurance if you get particularly anxious.
Distract Yourself
If you’re focused on everything that’s going on in the clinic, you’ll put yourself more on edge. Use distractions to take your mind off everything.
Some people find reading or doing puzzles helpful in the waiting room while listening to music or an audiobook through headphones can help during appointments.
Breathe
When you’re anxious, your body is preparing to react to a perceived threat. Your breaths become quick and short, and your blood flows to your muscles. All these changes affect how you think. Rational thinking becomes harder, and your senses become heightened.
This is fight or flight mode.
The key to returning your mind and body to a less anxious state is to breathe slowly. Taking longer, deeper breaths in and out will gradually let you think clearly again, and your anxiety levels will drop.
Ground Yourself
When you’re feeling anxious, your mind might invent worst-case scenarios, which can make you feel worse. Mindfulness and grounding techniques can help quell worrying thoughts.
Focus on things you can see and hear in the room or out of the window. Identifying the individual sights and sounds around you can help you remain present and grounded.
Talk To Your GP
Anxiety is a part of life, but if it’s preventing you from doing things, it might be worth getting help. Your GP may suggest medication, therapy, or activities to improve your anxiety.
Try Talking Therapy
Speaking to a counsellor may help. Some talking therapies help reframe your thoughts so you’re less likely to feel the same levels of anxiety while others address the issues or trauma behind your fears.
Compassionate Dental Care in London
Making your first appointment with us is a big step, but we’re here to support you. Our caring team wants to ensure your experience is positive so you can enjoy good oral health.
Contact us today to book your appointment.
