Schedule Now
Afraid of the Dentist? We Can Help!
Do you frequently cancel dental appointments? Does your blood pressure increase when you see a medical professional in a white coat or drive by a dental office? What you are experiencing is a real issue, and the term to describe it is called dental anxiety. This fear can have a significant impact on your dental health. Many people with this issue avoid visiting the dentist for years at a time or only visit when they have a toothache. Some even experience a higher level of fear known as dental phobia. Individuals with this disorder may avoid visiting the dentist, even when in pain. For them, the fear of sitting in a dental chair is far more excruciating than the side effects from their toothache.
Call Our Office Today at (260) 432-0561
If this describes you or someone you know, you are not alone. It is estimated that somewhere between 30 and 40 million people suffer from dental anxiety and phobia. But did you know there are medications and techniques available to help? With the introduction of sedation dentistry into the dental industry, dentists today can help patients relax and receive the necessary treatments. What if you could visit the dentist and have little to no memory of the occurrence?
Do You Think You May Have Dental Anxiety?
If you are unsure whether you have dental anxiety, see if any of these statements below resonate with you:
- I have a low pain tolerance.
- I’m afraid of pain.
- I hate needles.
- I hate having my teeth cleaned.
- The thought of visiting the dentist or needing a tooth repaired makes me feel sweaty and nauseous.
- I don’t sleep well the night before a dental visit.
- I feel helpless when sitting back in a dental chair.
- I’m embarrassed for a dentist to see my teeth.
- I have bad breath and don’t like people in my personal space.
If you answered yes to at least one of these, you more than likely have some form of dental anxiety.
What Causes Dental Anxiety?
The exact cause of dental anxiety differs for each individual. Some develop this at a young age after visiting the dentist for the first time or hearing a parent describe their bad dental experience. As a parent, it’s very important to talk positively about medical professionals around your children to help prevent fear of the dentist or doctor.
Patients who struggle with anxiety in general, or have difficulty being in positions where they feel out of control or helpless, often develop dental anxiety or phobia as an additional side effect. While maintaining a small dosage of anti-anxiety medications may help, they do not always cure the issue.
Tips for Overcoming Dental Anxiety
The first step is finding a dentist you trust and who you feel comfortable around. Many dental offices today allow consultations for first-time visits, where you can visit with the dentist and tour the facilities. During this visit, talk openly with the dentist about your fears and ask what type of sedation they provide. At Family Dentistry & Aesthetics, we understand that dental anxiety and phobia are real issues, and we are passionate about providing comfortable care for our patients. For optimal relaxation, Dr. Teel and Dr. Gilbert can provide nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedation medications, or IV sedation. The type of sedation chosen will depend on the level of your anxiety and the dental treatments required.
In addition to sedation, you can:
- Listen to calming music during your visit
- Watch your favorite TV show or movie during the appointment
- Practice meditation and relaxation techniques beforehand
- Bring a friend or family member with you to a the appointment
- Speak to a psychologist about your fears
Don’t Let Fear Keep You From Receiving Dental Care
If you are interested in meeting with Dr. Teel or Dr. Gilbert about how to overcome your dental fears, we invite to call our Fort Wayne, IN office today at (260) 432-0561 or fill out our online form and someone will get back with you immediately
