Overwhelming Anxiety of the Dentist: Causes and Treatments

The dentist isn’t someone that everyone raves about seeing.  While we all want that amazing smile and know that oral health is important, going to the dentist can cause some severe anxiety.   As a family dentist in Boronia, we would like to go over some of the reasons for anxiety and hopefully offer some advice that will assist with it as well.  While we know we have to see the dentist, sometimes, the anxiety can be overwhelming for a variety of reasons.  Let’s take a look at some of them.

1-Embarrassment

Whoever you choose to be your dentist, you shouldn’t have to be embarrassed, no matter what state your teeth are in.  Maybe you were never taught proper oral care and didn’t see a dentist as a child but now, you want to change that.  However, you have anxiety because they are so bad.  You need to find a dentist that is sensitive to this. Whatever the reasoning is that got you here, crawling into a dental chair is the very best thing you can do.  Did you know that your oral health will affect your overall health?  You don’t want to let your health go, call a dentist today and explain your situation.

2-Hate needles

There is a huge fear of needles.  But, if you find the right dentist they will inject you in a manner that you won’t even know that they are doing so.  Most dentists know this trick, but fail to use it.  Giving an injection slowly with some local numbing cream can make the needle experience a lot better.  Be sure that you speak with the dentist about this fear, so they can take some extra precautions with you.

3-The smells and sounds

The smells are actually a lot better than they were in previous years.  If the dentist is using the near bonding agents and fillers.  Typically only when a temporary bonding agent is used, will you have that dental smell.  You will know as soon as your visit is a dentist if they use old or the newer version. You could also ask.  Some dentists will do their best to avoid the smelly chemicals that people get nervous about.  You should ask before you make an appointment.  If you are given any grief over the phone for asking, you should move on to find a different clinic.

For the sounds, you might try a nice set of headphones to drown people and sounds out.  However, you should alert the dentist that you are wearing them, as they might not realize it and be asking you questions.

4-You fear the cost of it all

Speaking to the dental clinic will help calm this fear.  You don’t have to decide at your very first visit what dental work you can afford.  You can ask them what treatments they feel you need and the costs associated with them.  This will empower you with knowledge.  Knowing how much it will cost, will allow you to be more prepared.  The fear of the unknown is what is driving your anxiety, most likely.  So, be sure that you are very upfront and clear about your financial situation.

5-The tastes

Some people cannot stand the smell or taste of toothpaste.  It can be so bad, that they have to fight their way to brush their teeth each and every time.  Perhaps it is associated with some sort of trauma or child abuse.  There are many reasons why people have a hard time brushing their teeth, however, if you’re one of them, discuss this with your dentist.  There are many different flavors of toothpaste out there.  While mint is the most common, there are children’s kinds of toothpaste that are fruity.  You might find these more tolerable.  But, when speaking to your family dentist in Boronia and hygienist about this, they can suggest some options for you.

There are a number of reasons why people have dental anxiety.  Speaking with your dentist, they can determine what course of action would be best for you.  Some will also offer prescription medication or gas that will relax you a bit.  This medication can be taken just before your appointment to ensure that you are more relaxed and comfortable. The gas can be given in the clinic and you will feel normal as soon as it is taken away.  These are great options for those that have a bit of trouble seeing their family dentist in Boronia.