How To Deal With Dental Anxiety: 5 Steps To Overcoming Your Fears

If you’re afraid of the dentist, you’re not alone. Somewhere between 9-20% of all Americans suffer from dental anxiety, and have avoided seeing the dentist due to their fear. But regular oral care from a dentist like Dr. Salesky of Southington Dentistry is critical to keep your teeth and gums healthy. How can you overcome your fear and get the treatment you need? Here are 5 helpful steps you can take:

1. Identify The Source Of Your Anxiety

Chances are, you have several specific “triggers” that make you nervous when you go to the dentist. Some of the most common anxiety triggers include:

• The sight and sound of a dental office
• The vibration and sound of dental drills
• Needles, such as those used to deliver oral anesthetic
• Fear of pain and discomfort
• Feeling a lack of control during your procedure
• Embarrassment or fear that your dentist will judge you for having unhealthy teeth/gums

Understanding the source of your anxiety is the first step toward finding help. If you know what makes you uncomfortable and nervous, you will be able to discover ways to mitigate your anxiety, such as drill-less dentistry, sedation dentistry, or a compassionate conversation with your dentist.

2. Work With The Right Dentist

If you have dental anxiety, it’s important to work with a dentist who is patient, caring, and understands your fears. If you discuss your anxiety with Dr. Saleski, he can recommend steps that will make you feel less anxious, and ensure that you feel safe and comfortable during your entire procedure.

3. Consider Sedation

Sedation can be very helpful for dental anxiety. Laughing gas or an oral sedative can be administered to help reduce your level of consciousness, and ease feelings of fear, anxiety, and nervousness.

4. Take Someone With You

Some patients find that it’s very helpful to bring someone with them to support them during their procedure. The comfort of a family member, partner, or close friend can make your treatment much more enjoyable and calming. Having someone you love with you during your procedure can help you feel emotionally-supported, and reduce feelings of fear and anxiety.

5. Consider Professional Help For Serious Dental Phobia

If you find that you become physically uncomfortable or have a panic attack when you merely think about going to the dentist, you may have a very severe case of dental phobia and may need professional help such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or medication to help you overcome your fear. We Welcome Patients With Dental Anxiety – Schedule Your Appointment Now! At Southington Dentistry, Dr. Salesky has years of experience working with patients who have dental anxiety. From minor cases of anxiety to severe dental phobia, our team is here to offer compassionate care no matter what you may be feeling. We focus on making you feel comfortable and safe throughout your appointment and offer sedation to all of our patients to ensure you can get the help you need, even if you have dental anxiety. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Salesky now at (860) 628-5029, or drop by our office near Southington and Wolcott at 15 Cornerstone Ct #3a, Plantsville, CT 06479.