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Some might say that understanding your fear is half the battle. There’s some truth to this. Knowing why something makes you anxious can be validating and is often the first step towards finding a solution.
Since close to 40% of Americans experience some form of dental dread, let’s talk it out. Why might booking an appointment with your local dentist cause you so much stress, and what can you do about it? Keep reading for a list of potential dentophobia causes and fixes.
What Counts as Dental Anxiety?
Firstly, what exactly is meant by “dental anxiety”? Is it a serious, panic-inducing type of condition, or does it include general unease with anything related to your dentist?
The simple answer is that if you hesitate or completely neglect to schedule even the most routine of dental visits, you probably have dental anxiety! But emotions are complicated and can be difficult to pinpoint, so here are some concrete symptoms you can watch out for:
- Noticeable sweating
- A fast or fluttering heartbeat
- Lightheadedness or nausea
- Using anger or fear as a coping mechanism
- Dry mouth
- Insomnia
- Muscle tension
- Pervasive uneasiness
Everyone is different, so keep in mind that this isn’t a list of all possible symptoms. If you’re still in doubt, talk to your dentist or therapist. Sometimes answering “how does that make you feel?” actually helps a lot!
Why Does the Dentist Freak Me Out?
The reasons behind human emotion can also be complex. One or more of these possibilities could be the source of your dentophobia:
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Sensory sensitivities, such as struggling with bright lights or loud sounds
- Nervousness about something else related to your dentist’s office, such as germs or tight spaces
- Previous negative experience with a past dentist or medical professional
- Fear of being vulnerable, lack of control, or trusting others
As you can see, pinning down the “why” behind your fear could also lead you to other underlying mental or emotional challenges. That’s another good reason to discuss your concerns with a trained professional.
How Can I Get the Care I Need?
Lean on your support systems: friends, family, therapy, and believe it or not, your very own dentist. Many dental practices offer sedation dentistry for patients struggling to address their oral health due to anxiety. Laughing gas is often enough to provide a relaxing and comfortable experience, but some dentists can prescribe sedation pills for an even deeper sense of calm.
These options can be relieving accommodations. However, make sure to consult with your dentist before choosing one or the other. They can help you find a sedation dentistry treatment that will be safe and effective for your personal needs.
About the Practice
Our team at Sunny Dental prioritizes patient comfort. We’re proud to offer both nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oral conscious (prescription pills) sedation to help patients of all ages feel more at ease during their treatments. If you’ve been avoiding oral care due to fear and anxiety, contact us at 469-765-8050. We’d be happy to discuss your concerns and find a solution that works best for you.
