How To Overcome Dental Phobia & Get The Care You Need

Studies show that dental anxiety keeps many Americans from getting the dental care they need to maintain a healthy smile. If you are due for a dental visit but you have anxiety or dental phobia, we can help! Our team is caring and kind, and we are here to give you all the information you need to minimize your fears and enjoy your next visit to our office. Here are a few things you can do to relieve your anxiety:  

Identify Your Triggers

Dental anxiety and fear typically have a few common triggers. A few of the things that may trigger you and make you anxious can include:

• A bad experience in the past
• Embarrassment or feelings of loss of privacy when someone is looking in your mouth
• Feelings of loss of control when sitting in the dentist’s chair
• The sight, sound or vibration of the dental drill
• The smells of the dentist’s office
• Fear of pain and discomfort due to improper numbing

Depending on the things that trigger you, our team can work with you to help you develop a coping strategy.  For example, if you fear a loss of control, Dr. Salesky can ask for your approval and consent before each step of your treatment process. If you fear the sound and vibration of the dental drill, you may be able to listen to music or watch Netflix to distract yourself. At Southington Dentistry, we also offer drill-less dentistry for your comfort. 

Find A Dentist Who Understands Your Fears

At Southington Dentistry, we specialize in treating patients who have dental anxiety. Fear of the dentist should not stop you from getting the treatment you need. If you have dental anxiety, it’s important to find a dentist like Dr. Salesky who understands your fears and helps you take steps to mitigate your dental phobia. Together, you can develop a treatment plan that works for you. 

Bring A Friend Or Family Member To Your Appointment

At Southington Dentistry, you’re always welcome to bring a friend or family member to your appointment for moral support. Having someone near you to comfort you, hold your hand, or just talk to you if you’re feeling nervous can be very helpful throughout the process.

Consider Dental Sedation To Stay More Comfortable

All of these techniques are very effective at mitigating dental phobia, but sedation dentistry can help, too. Even if you just get minimal inhaled sedation (laughing gas), this can ease feelings of fear and anxiety, and also ensure that you feel no pain or discomfort. Contact Southington Dentistry now to learn more about your options.

Get The Care You Need To Overcome Your Dental Phobia

Southington Dentistry serves patients with all levels of dental anxiety. Whether you’re just a bit nervous about your upcoming appointment, or you have dental phobia and have an extremely hard time even walking into a dentist’s office, we’re here to help. Ready to get started? Contact us now at (860) 628-5029 for an appointment, or stop by our office at 15 Cornerstone Ct #3a, Plantsville, CT 06479 for more information.