Does the thought of visiting the dentist make you anxious? You’re not alone. Dental anxiety is a leading factor in patients developing complex dental concerns. However, avoiding the dentist allows minor oral health concerns to escalate into more complex conditions. If you suffer from dental fear or anxiety, contact Orchard Hill Dental, your dentist in Hendersonville, NC.
Dr. Jessica Christy and her team are compassionate and committed to providing patients with exceptional personalized service in a welcoming environment. We work to make you as comfortable as possible so you can feel relaxed and safe in our Hendersonville, North Carolina dental office.
Causes of Dental Anxiety
One of the most common causes of dental anxiety is fear of pain. This fear often stems from past experiences, particularly if a previous dental visit was uncomfortable or lacked sufficient explanation and care. Even if you haven’t had a painful dental procedure, you may still imagine that a visit will hurt.
Another cause of dental anxiety is the fear of needles or injections. Many dental procedures require local anesthesia, and the thought of getting an injection can make some patients feel anxious before they even step into the office.
Some patients feel anxious because of a strong gag reflex or because they feel vulnerable or out of control in the dental chair. Lying back with your mouth open and not being able to speak can trigger discomfort.
Embarrassment also plays a big role in dental anxiety. People who haven’t seen a dentist in a while may worry about being judged for the condition of their teeth. Others might feel self-conscious about bad breath or the appearance of their smile.
Finally, sensory triggers like the sounds of dental tools, the smell of antiseptics, or even the sight of the dental chair can bring back bad memories for some. These associations can be powerful, but they can also fade with new, positive experiences.
We do our best to ensure you’re comfortable throughout your entire visit. Our team doesn’t judge and simply wants to provide you with the best care. Discuss your triggers with us, and we can focus on techniques that help alleviate them. We utilize local anesthetics and use the latest dental technology to make treatment smoother.
Patient Education on Dental Anxiety
Through patient education, our dentists help patients fully understand the benefits of routine dental health care. For many patients, education can be used to help ease their fear or anxiety. Clearing up confusion tied to a certain dental treatment can eliminate anxiety tied to fear of the unknown.
We will listen to your concerns and allow you time to ask questions. We will also take the time to explain each necessary procedure. At Orchard Hill Dental, our goal is to help patients maintain and enhance their smiles comfortably and safely.
Comfortable Dental Treatment Options
Our office also uses modern techniques to treat patients. Treatments, including laser dentistry, are comfortable and painless for patients. If you have gum disease or need gum contouring, Dr. Christy can use a small-tissue diode laser to treat “gummy smiles” and remove the infection from beneath the gum line.
Sedation dentistry options we offer include IV sedation and anesthesia. Both of these methods relax patients during dental treatments. Depending on the method used, patients may remain conscious during treatment but will not remember the procedure.
Why It’s Important to Address Dental Anxiety
When dental anxiety keeps you away from the dentist, you miss out on more than just cleanings. You also miss early warning signs of issues like gum disease, tooth decay, infections, or even oral cancer. These problems are often painless at first, which means they can quietly worsen until they become emergencies. Addressing dental anxiety helps you catch and treat problems early, before they become complex and costly.
Ignoring dental care can also impact your confidence. If you’re embarrassed by your smile, it can affect the way you speak, laugh, and interact with others. You may avoid social situations or job opportunities. By facing your anxiety and getting regular care, you can rebuild your self-esteem and take pride in your appearance again.
Addressing dental anxiety also helps break the cycle of fear. Often, anxiety grows the longer you stay away from the dentist. But with each positive experience, your fear can start to fade. When patients take small steps, such as visiting the office for a tour or having a gentle cleaning, they begin to build trust and confidence. Over time, what once felt impossible can become routine and manageable.
On a physical level, untreated dental issues can impact your entire body. Gum disease has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, and pregnancy complications. Infections in the mouth can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. By overcoming anxiety and receiving regular dental care, you’re not just protecting your smile; you’re taking care of your whole body.
Dental Anxiety FAQs
Dental anxiety is a condition that impacts a solid chunk of the American public. Read the answers to these commonly asked questions to learn more.
How can I calm my anxiety before going to the dentist?
To calm your anxiety before going to the dentist, try deep breathing exercises or meditation to relax your mind and body. You can also listen to calming music or bring a stress ball to squeeze during your appointment. It may help to communicate your fears with your dentist, who can offer reassurance and adjust their approach to make you more comfortable. Arriving early and familiarizing yourself with the environment can also reduce anxiety and make you feel more at ease.
What can I take for dental anxiety?
For dental anxiety, you can talk to your dentist about using mild sedatives, such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas), to help you feel relaxed during the procedure. Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help reduce physical discomfort associated with anxiety.
Some people find herbal remedies, like valerian root or chamomile, beneficial, but it’s important to consult your doctor before trying these. Additionally, relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or visualization, can effectively manage anxiety before and during your appointment.
How common is dental anxiety?
Dental anxiety is quite common, affecting a significant portion of the population. Studies show that around 30% of adults experience some level of anxiety related to dental visits, while 10% may have severe anxiety or dental phobia.
Factors contributing to dental anxiety can include past traumatic experiences, fear of pain, or feelings of loss of control during treatment. Understanding that many people share these feelings can help individuals feel more comfortable discussing their anxiety with their dentist.
Can dental anxiety lead to poor oral health?
Yes, dental anxiety can lead to poor oral health. People with dental anxiety may avoid routine check-ups and treatments due to fear, which can result in untreated cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues. This avoidance can exacerbate dental problems, making future treatment more complex and potentially painful.
What should I tell my dentist about my anxiety?
When visiting the dentist, it’s essential to communicate your anxiety openly. Tell them what aspects make you anxious, such as fear of pain or discomfort with dental tools. This information allows the dentist to adjust their approach and offer accommodations, such as taking breaks or using calming techniques during the procedure.
What role does the dentist play in reducing dental anxiety?
The dentist plays a crucial role in reducing dental anxiety by creating a calming and supportive environment. They can use gentle techniques, straightforwardly explain procedures, and provide options for sedation or pain management. Building a rapport with anxious patients and encouraging open communication about fears can help make dental visits more comfortable and less intimidating.
Schedule an Appointment
Get the dental care you need in a safe and relaxing environment! Contact Dr. Christy and the team of Orchard Hill Dental today at (828) 247-7001 or request a consultation online. Our friendly dental team will be there with you throughout treatment to ensure that everything runs smoothly. If you have any questions about the dental solutions we offer, you can ask a member of our staff, who will be happy to help you.