Dental Anxiety is widespread among patients within the UK. Just the thought of booking a dentist appointment can cause some people a significant amount of stress and anxiety.
What is Dental Phobia?
Dental anxiety can range from mild uneasiness to acute anxiety attacks when it’s time for treatment, making it easier for patients to just avoid or cancel appointments. When someone is avoiding dental work despite requiring treatment, they likely have dental phobia.
An individual’s specific fear of visiting the dentist will vary from person to person and can be caused by various triggers. For some people, the thought of needles in their mouths or the sound of the drill is what drives their anxiety. Other people may become anxious about their loss of control. The fear of pain most commonly causes dental phobia. Generally, but not always, dental phobias develop from a traumatic childhood experience.
How Do I Know if I Have a Dental Phobia?
Several factors and triggers can contribute to dental phobia. If you’re affected by more than one of them, you likely have dental phobia. The common triggers are:
- Experiencing overwhelming fear when you think about attending a dental appointment.
- Avoiding dental or oral medical treatment because of your anxiety.
- Putting up with pain or infection because of your fear of attending the dentist.
- The sound of a dental drill causes you a high level of stress.
- Fears for some time following a traumatic childhood experience.
If this applies to you, you should call Manor House Dental, Our dentists are excellent at managing dental phobias and nervous patients. Some of our patients travel almost 100 miles for their appointments. They will move house, but they won’t change dentist!
How to Cope With Dental Anxiety
- Find the Right Dentist
The right dentist will make all the difference when it comes to calming your dental anxiety. You’ll feel more comfortable and relaxed about the treatment you’re receiving. You should look for a dentist who is patient and willing to listen to your concerns.
- Use Relaxation Techniques
Anxiety-managing tips and tricks such as breathing techniques and medications can help you relax before your treatment. Do some research before your appointment and try to find one that works for you.
- Bring a Friend
Ask a friend or family member if they can accompany you to your appointment. They can wait outside, or you could discuss with your dentist them coming into the treatment room with you to make you feel safer and more relaxed.
- Let Your Dentist Know
Communicating your worries with your dentist can ensure they offer all the support they can to make your treatment as comfortable as possible. Ask plenty of questions about your treatment, so you are fully informed.
- Arrive at Your Appointment Early
Rushing to your appointment will only amplify any stress or anxiety. Arrive early to avoid this and give yourself a few minutes to calm down and relax before your appointment.
Communicating Anxieties With Your Dentist
Many people feel nervous or afraid of visiting the dentist, but we can help you try and overcome your fears. Here at Manor House Dental, we take a genuine interest in the treatment and management of nervous patients. If you feel afraid or anxious, communicate that to us. We are here to help you. Your first appointment is a consultation, so don’t worry about having treatment. Use your first appointment as an opportunity to get to know us and get a feel of the practice. Take it slow. Ask for longer appointments or shorter ones! Whichever makes you feel more comfortable. We offer a range of solutions to help you feel more comfortable. Often when we are confronting a fear or a phobia, the first step is the hardest.
At Manor House Dental, our team are friendly and supportive. Call us to speak to our understanding patient services team and book an appointment. You can also visit our smile gallery to see our wealth of outstanding dental treatment results.