It’s unfortunate that many people experience anxiety about dental visits. The perceived uncertainty about the checkup can make a patient feel uneasy or worry as an appointment draws near. While stress is often controllable, for patients that experience a phobia of the dentist, the challenge is greater.
Like any phobia, a fear of the dentist is born from an intense dread that makes a person go to extreme measures to avoid the situation. Many people with dental phobia haven’t been to the dentist in years, which affects their self-esteem and overall health.
Whether you suffer from dental anxiety or phobia, there may be sound reasons you feel out of control or worried about a dental appointment:
- Fear of pain often from an unpleasant experience in the past
- Fear of anesthetic or injections
- Feeling helpless or out of control during an exam or treatment
- Loss of personal space or embarrassment by physical closeness
At Barron Family Dental, we truly understand. We provide our patients many options to help control feelings of anxiety or fear, including relaxants and anesthesia, comfortable chairs and environments, music and blankets. Above all else, the entire team is experienced in providing clear communication with patients, so each person knows what to expect, when to expect it, and is empowered to be in control of their examination and treatment.
If you are suffering from anxiety, please consider Barron Family Dental! To make your transition to the best possible oral health, we suggest you think about just a few, small changes that can make a big impact as you conquer your fear of the dentist!
Talk to Us
You should never feel embarrassed or uncertain to share with us your concerns as you would be amazed how many patients have similar feelings! If you are a new patient, share with us any hesitancy you have or whether fear has kept you away from a dental appointment.
Talk to us about specific concerns, what information you need, and what kind of environment will make you feel more at ease. We can take appointments slow as you ease your way back to great oral health.
Control Tips
Just like any service, you are the customer and have a right to be heard. At your dentist office, establish a signal when you’d like an exam to pause or stop. Knowing you can raise your arm to take a moment is powerful and will provide you with more control.
Bring moral support for your appointment! A friend or family member that waits with you in the waiting room and even one that joins you during an examination can help keep you calm and more in control. When you are fearful, feeling in control can help you overcome feelings of uncertainty to get to the end.
Lower the Stress
Identify one or more calming techniques to practice before, during, and even after a dental appointment. When the body is experiencing increased stress levels, elevated heart rate, sweating, and muscle tension can make the situation worse.
Give thought to what helps to calm you down in an overwhelming situation. Deep breathing, breathing exercises, meditation, or a favorite blanket are just a few of the options that can provide comfort and a more relaxed state. If these don’t feel sufficient, talk to your dentist about sedation options – you may not realize there are several options available that can help you!
There are many reasons that may have made you feel fearful of the dentist. We understand that your willingness to make small changes to be able to attend a dental visit is a big step toward overcoming your concerns. We are here to help! Call us at (303) 284-6463 or complete our online form to let us know what you’re feeling and how we can assist you!
