If you are someone who finds going to the dentist a nerve-wracking experience, you are not alone. A telephone survey of 1101 Canadians found that 9.8% were somewhat afraid of dental treatment, with another 5.5% having a high level of fear.

Dental anxiety and phobia are quite common, affecting millions of people worldwide. It’s understandable not willing to go to your dentist because of it. However, taking care of your oral health is an absolute necessity.

At Airdrie Springs Dental, we understand how much of internal turmoil visiting a dentist is for people with dental anxiety. The good news here is that we will be discussing some ways that can assist you in overcoming your fear and anxiety and help you to take steps for better oral health.

So, don’t let your fear of the dentist stop you from getting the dental care you need. With the right approach and the help of professionals in the Dental Office in Airdrie, you can have a positive dental experience.

Signs And Symptoms Of Dental Anxiety

Some signs and symptoms of dental anxiety include:

• Sweating
• Racing heartbeat or Palpitations
• Low blood pressure and Possible Fainting
• Visible distress
• Signs of panic like breathlessness, shaking, dry mouth etc.
• Nausea
• Using humour or aggression to mask anxiety

If you experience any of these symptoms when visiting the dentist, it’s important to seek help and try visiting dentistry for anxious patients.

Recognizing What You are Afraid of is the First Step

The first step in conquering dental anxiety is realizing what you are frightened of. While going to the dentist near you, people might have a number of common fears and worries, including:

1. Pain – One of the most prevalent causes of dental anxiety is a fear of pain. This might be the result of unpleasant events in the past or hearing about others’ hardships.

2. Fear of Loss of Control – Many people worry that they won’t have any control while sitting in a dentist’s chair. Feelings of vulnerability and a lack of effective communication can make this worse.

3. Fear of the Dental Chair or Fear of the Unknown – For some people, the discomfort of the dentist’s chair and its tools can be a source of stress and anxiety. Another factor in anxiety is the lack of knowledge about the process and not knowing what is being done.

4. Embarrassment about Dental Health – Some people might feel ashamed of how their teeth look or how long it has been since their last checkup. For this reason, visiting your dentist in Airdrie regularly is recommended.

5. Bad Experiences in the Past – Encounters with dentists or dental procedures in the past that were not favourable and might have a lasting effect on how someone views dental care.

How can Dental Anxiety Affect Your Health

• Stained and Discolored Teeth – Individuals who experience dental anxiety frequently put off going to the dentist, which results in poor oral hygiene. Plaque and tartar buildup due to this, which can result in teeth that seem yellow and stained. 

• Chipped, Breaking, and Cracked Teeth – Untreated teeth can become brittle, which increases their propensity to cracking, fracturing, or chipping. Pain, sensitivity, and chewing difficulties can result from these issues.

• Gum Disease – Gum disease can be caused when plaque and tartar build-up in your teeth. The condition can lead to bleeding, pain and bad breath.

• Gum Recession – Many oral health issues can be brought on by fear of the dentist, which can negatively impact your general health. Here are a few ways dental anxiety can harm your health:

• Cavities and Tooth Decay – Improper dental care can lead to cavities and tooth decay, which causes pain and discomfort. These issues, if unattended to, might result in tooth loss.

• Tooth Loss – Dental issues can result in tooth loss if they are not treated, which can affect one’s ability to eat, communicate, and self-esteem in general.

• Bad Breath – Bad breath could be caused by poor oral hygiene, which can cause social anxiety and low self-confidence. A dentist for adults with anxietycould be a great help in such situations.

• Plaque and Tartar – Neglecting oral hygiene can cause plaque and tartar to build up, leading to various dental problems.

Who Can Be Affected By Dental Anxiety

Everyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, can have dental anxiety. It is a frequent problem that many individuals encounter when going to the dentist, and it can range from slight apprehension to intense anxiety or phobia.

Several things, such as prior unpleasant experiences, a fear of pain, or a sense of helplessness, might contribute to dental anxiety. It’s important to understand that dental anxiety and phobia is a real worry and to get support if it prevents you from getting the dental treatment you need.

Tips for Getting Over Your Fear of the Dentist

1. Look for a Dental Practice that Caters to Dental Phobics – The right dentist can make a difference. Find a dental clinic in Airdrie that can help you feel more reassured and at ease about the care you are receiving with caring and friendly staff and a relaxing office environment.

2.Use Relaxation Techniques – Spend some time setting the mindset before your visit. Stretching, meditation, and deep controlled breathing are activities that many individuals find beneficial.

3. Technology for the Win – Dentistry for anxious patients might use technology, such as television, music, etc., to distract patients’ minds from the procedure and help them feel at ease.  

4. Don’t go on your First Visit Alone – Having a supportive person with you, like your family or friend, can make you feel safer and more at ease. 

5. Arrive on Time, but Not too Soon – Try to arrive on time, neither late nor too soon. You don’t want yourself overthinking and stressing about the procedure while you wait for your turn.

6. Let Your Dentist Know About Your Fears – Don’t keep your fears bottled up. As dental anxiety and phobia are common, there is a good chance that your dentist has good experience withdentistry for anxious patientsand can help you out.

7. Ask Your Dentist for Sedation Dentistry – Nitrous oxide and oral sedatives are popular options because of their relaxing effects on patients. Even a challenging dental operation might be completed while you’re dozing off.

8. Take Precautions to Reduce Discomfort – It’s the responsibility of the dentist to ensure that you don’t experience any discomfort while they are operating in your mouth. Take breaks when you think it’s necessary. The dental team will make sure that you get the time you need to relax.

9. Make your Next Appointment Before you Leave the Office – Make sure you book your follow-up appointment before leaving the Dental office. This will help you to visit again timely, without any delay. 

Conclusion

At Airdrie Springs Dental, we understand the challenges that come with dental anxiety and offer a variety of services to help our patients feel comfortable and relaxed during their visits.Schedule your appointment today with Airdrie Springs Dental and let our team take care of all your dental care needs for your whole family in Airdrie, AB.