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Anxiety in the Dentist’s Chair

Posted on: January 15th, 2019 | Categories: Uncategorized

When some of us think of the dentist, we may feel anxious and frightened… so how do we conqueror such a fear? We need the dentist; they help make our smiles healthy and beautiful, so we can’t simply avoid them forever! Here is a look into dental anxiety, how it is caused, and how to overcome it.

The main fear of dental visits is the uncertainty of what exactly will happen there. Did you know that up to “15% of Americans avoid the dentist” due to fear? This is especially common with the older crowd, who have unfortunately experienced dental care before modern technologies. The good news is that our children, however, are not burdened by negative experiences due to the newer tools and improvements in techniques implemented in each visit from a young age. With the fear being present for many though, what can be done to overcome this?

One of the main things that can help lower a patient’s dental anxiety is being able to openly communicate with their dentist. This allows them to break down the process of what exactly you will be experiencing and allow you time to process it and feel safe. Next, when there are multiple tools and hands present in your mouth, it may be hard for the dentist to hear what you’re saying, so talk with your hands to express how you feel or if something is uncomfortable. Don’t think you have to undergo a painful procedure—there are ways, like sedation dentistry, to ensure you have a pain-free experience every time.

Nowadays there are also televisions, music players, and other distractions your dentist can provide chair-side to lower your anxiety and get your mind off of getting treated. Lastly, consider talking with your dentist about certain medications that could help to lower your anxiety, or about sedation dentistry, which can put one in a state of partial or full unconsciousness. It is also important to remember to take a break if need be. If dental anxiety is something you have been experiencing, your dentist will understand and try their best to turn those negative experiences into positives ones.

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Here at Sterling Dental Group, we work diligently to protect our patient's rights and privacy. Requesting an appointment via our Internet portal is considered part of what HIPAA has identified as electronically protected information (ePHI). Unfortunately, despite the best efforts we make or take, there are people or entities that may attempt to intercept the data you transmit to us. By checking the box, and electronically making an appointment, you understand that you are making an appointment over the internet and that Sterling Dental Group will keep this information confidential but cannot guarantee that others, outside of our practice, may not illegally intercept this communication. As a result of continuing, you are sending this transmission and accepting the inherent risk(s) associated with making this request for an appointment. As an alternative, you are always welcome to contact our office via telephone to schedule your appointment.

Disclaimer

The information presented here is not intended or implied to be medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should be used for informational purposes only.

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