Overcoming Dental Anxiety

Dental AnxietyDental anxiety is a lot more prevalent than most people think. Sure, it is completely normal to be somewhat anxious before going to a dentist, but it is not normal to let this anxiety prevent you from properly taking care of your teeth or getting treatments you need.

If this is the case with you, then you are probably suffering from dental anxiety, fear, or a type of phobia. Fortunately, there are available methods and options to help patients relax and receive the treatment they need. Most cases of dental anxiety are often triggered by particular experiences or events. These include:

Read here:

1. The fear of losing control

Some dental patients find being in a dental chair overwhelming because it makes them feel like they are losing control. They feel helpless as a dentist pokes inside their mouth with all sorts of strange looking devices. People with this fear often feel trapped while at the dentist's office.

2. Fear of pain

Most people are afraid of anything that involves pain, particularly those with low pain thresholds.

3. Fear of being judged

Some people avoid going to the dentist simply because they are not proud of the way their teeth look. These people feel embarrassment or shame when a dentist examines their mouth due to all the oral health issues they have. Of course, the longer these people avoid going to the dentist, the worse their issues become.

4. Negative experiences with dentists

One of the main reasons people do not like going to the dentist's office is because of past bad experiences. If you ever have a dental procedure that is painful or leads to complications, it is natural to be nervous about going back to the dentist's office.

Overcoming dental anxiety

Now that we know what triggers your anxiety in the first place, let's take a look at a few things you can do to minimize your fears.

Tips to minimize dental anxiety

1. Understand your fears

Write down the things that make you scared to go to the dentist. That makes it easier for you to recognize them when anxiety starts creeping in.

2. Find an understanding dentist

Finding the right dentist is important if you want to overcome your anxiety. Find someone who is easy to work with that will go the extra mile to ensure you are comfortable.

3. Talk to your dentist about your fears

Your dentist is a trained professional who knows how to deal with these things, so give him/her a heads up about your anxiety.

4. Look for ways to reduce your anxiety

A good way to do this is by starting with milder treatments, then working your way up to more invasive ones.

5. Bring a buddy to your appointment

Having someone with you during your appointment can be very helpful. The person will serve as your support system.

6. Ask your dentist about sedatives

If you are having a difficult time relaxing at the dentist's office, talk to your dentist about sedation. Sedation can help keep you relaxed and calm during treatments.

There’s help:

Contact Clarisse Atakhanian DDS Inc. to learn about other things you can do to alleviate your dental anxiety.

Request a dental appointment here: https://clarisseatakhaniandds.com or call Clarisse Atakhanian DDS Inc. at (818) 483-9071 for an appointment in our Glendale dental office.

Recent Posts

Why Telling Your Dental Team About Your Anxiety Is Smart

Dental anxiety is the fear and uneasiness of a person to visit a dentist for a dental checkup. Maintaining proper oral hygiene ensures good care for your teeth. However, visiting your dentist every six months helps keep the health of your teeth and gums in check.  Generally, some people experience dental anxiety which prevents them…

Welcome To Clarisse Atakhanian DDS Inc.

We are committed to providing quality service to residents located In the Glendale, CA area. Our website has additional information about the following topics: Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, Invisalign Dentist Glendale, Implant Dentist, Teeth Whitening, Cerec Dentist Glendale, Family Dentist, General Dentist, Dentures Glendale and Dental Implants.

Tips From Your Glendale Dental Office On How To Avoid Gum Recession

To some extent, gum recession plagues nearly half of middle-aged adults and 88 percent of adults over age 65. While receding gums may, unfortunately, be inevitable for some since it can be a hereditary trait, others can avoid gum recession by caring for their teeth and gums properly. If you are interested in preventing the…

Aesthetic Dentistry In Glendale Focuses On Both Form And Function

When you are looking to improve the form and function of your teeth in Glendale, aesthetic dentistry is the best option. Aesthetic dentistry, often referred to as cosmetic dentistry, is the implementation of improving the appearance and overall well being of your teeth and oral health. Many dentists find it hard to create a balance…


Recent Posts

The Dental Bridge Procedure: A Step By Step Guide

The Dental Bridge Procedure: A Step-By-Step Guide

A dental bridge might be the right treatment if you have lost one or more teeth and want to enhance your oral health and self-esteem. The dental bridge can restore your smile’s appearance and allow you to chew normally once more. If you are considering this treatment, this article outlines all the steps involved so…

When Should You Replace An Old Dental Filling?

When Should You Replace An Old Dental Filling?

Dental fillings can last a long time, but they are not life-long restorations. Most fillings will need to be replaced after around a decade, with some types lasting longer than others. If you are wondering whether it is time to replace your old dental filling, be aware that as long as it is continuing to…