Why You Should Talk to Your Dentist About Your Anxiety

It’s common for people to feel nervous about visiting the dentist but for some, their anxiety prevents them from seeking treatment, even if they are dealing with tooth pain. For individuals who suffer from dental anxiety, speaking to their dentist near Kendall is important for improving their experience while in the dentist chair.

Your Anxiety Can Negatively Impact Your Oral Health.

Being a bit nervous about having your teeth worked on is generally not a problem for people. However, if your dental anxiety prevents you from having biannual checkups or seeking treatment when you need it, then it can affect your oral health and allow small problems to turn into big ones.

Your Dentist May Be Able to Address Conditions That Make You Anxious.

For many, it’s the lack of control that they experience while undergoing dental treatment that causes them to postpone essential procedures. While visiting your dentist, you lie back and allow another person to work on your teeth while you are put in a position where communication is difficult. To help address any anxiety that this causes you, speak with your dentist. Ask him what treatment steps he will be performing on your teeth so you have a better idea of what is happening. Also, establish a simple hand signal that will alert your dentist when you need to take a break, giving you more control over the situation.

There Are Solutions Available for People With Dental Anxiety.

For patients that consistently experience anxiety when they visit their dentist, sedation dentistry can provide an excellent solution. Sedation dentistry involves the use of sedatives to help a person relax throughout their treatment, making the experience less stressful and intimidating. Some dentists offer nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, which is a form of conscious sedation that wears off shortly after the patient’s mask is removed. If a patient requires a more complex procedure, their dentist may prescribe an oral sedative to take before their appointment. Speak with your dentist about what forms of sedation dentistry he offers.