How To Calm Your Dental Anxiety

Feeling fear or anxiety about visiting the dentist is very common among adults. Choosing the right dentist is vital to help you feel comfortable about your dental cleanings and exams. Dental anxiety is the unease, apprehension, stress, and fear some people experience when they go or think about going to dental offices.

According to the University of Pennsylvania, between 50% and 80% of U.S. adults feel some degree of anxiety about visiting the dentist.

At Michael J. Spitzer, DDS, our goal is to help every patient have an easy, relaxed and comfortable experience. We want to acknowledge that your anxiety related to dental care is very real.  We have helped many of our patients overcome their fear of going to the dentist, and we would like to offer some helpful tips to manage your anxiety and make your visit more successful. 

The truth is that dental anxiety causes many patients to avoid their regular hygiene appointments. Patients who neglect or delay treatment are also more likely to require emergency dental services. Unpleasant and costly emergency dental procedures may reinforce their worst fears, beginning the vicious cycle of dental anxiety again.

Oral health is a critical component of your overall health and well-being, and we do not want you to forsake your dental care due to worry and fear.

6 TIPS TO CALM YOUR DENTAL ANXIETY

1. Face Your Fears

Acknowledging your dental anxiety is the first step toward managing it.

Ask yourself what specifically causes your fear—is it:

• The idea of keeping your mouth open for long periods?

• Fear of pain?

• The sound of dental tools?

• Uncertainty about the procedure or provider?

Being honest with yourself and sharing your concerns with your dental team is a helpful first step.

2. Speak to Your Dental Provider About Your Anxiety

Dr. Michael J. Spitzer and our entire team want your dental visit to be relaxed and positive. When scheduling your appointment, let our coordinator know about any concerns. At your visit, share your anxieties, questions, and fears with our dentists. Our team will provide personalized care and extra attention to make your visit comfortable.

3. Become Familiar With the Dental Office

Sometimes anxiety is caused by a lack of familiarity with your surroundings or being unfamiliar with the procedure. Plan to arrive early to your appointment to give yourself time to become acquainted with the office. Giving yourself extra time to talk with the office staff will help you relax before your visit. 

Don’t be afraid to ask questions - ask your provider about the different tools or treatments that will be used during your procedure. Ask about the technology. Our team will take the time to walk you through the procedure, technology, and instruments used. Understanding what is around you and the steps your provider will take during the procedure can help the entire experience seem less intimidating.

4. Try Relaxation Techniques

Try relaxing by focusing on your mind and body. Here are some ideas to incorporate deep breathing exercises to help you feel more relaxed when anxious feelings arise. 

Breathe in and out deeply, counting your breaths. Inhale slowly to the count of 5 and then exhale to the same number of counts. Do this 5 times while waiting for your appointment to begin or while sitting in the dental chair. 

Another way to relieve stress is to do a body scan. Concentrate on relaxing your entire body, one body part at a time. Start with your head and work your way down to your toes. For example, you can focus on releasing tension starting in your forehead, then moving to your cheeks, neck, and down the rest of your body. 

5. Practice Good Dental Hygiene

Practicing good dental and oral hygiene between visits can give you greater confidence and awareness about your oral health. Confidence creates a more positive attitude and outlook when you arrive at your Costa Mesa dental office.

You can begin to build that confidence by starting new, healthy habits today.

• Brush and floss twice daily. 

• Use mouthwash. 

• Avoid tobacco. 

• Rinse your mouth with water after eating or drinking foods or drinks that are high in sugar or acidic. 

If you’re unsure whether your dental hygiene routine is effective, talk to our Costa Mesa dental team for guidance.

6. Agree On A Signal to Feel in Control

Ultimately, your dental or oral healthcare visit is YOURS. You may feel like you are at the mercy of the dentist or the hygienist, but the reality is that you are in control of your healthcare and your experience. Our team is trained to explain to you how to signal us at any time if you experience feelings of discomfort. Good healthcare providers will respond immediately to your concerns.

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Take the First Step Toward a Stress-Free Dental Experience

Overcoming dental anxiety often takes a combination of techniques and support—and our team is here to help every step of the way. If you feel nervous about your upcoming appointment or have postponed care due to fear, don’t wait any longer.

At Michael J. Spitzer, DDS, our compassionate Costa Mesa dentist and experienced team will listen to your concerns, explain every step of your treatment, and make your visit as calm and comfortable as possible.

Your oral health is too important to put off because of anxiety. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and discover how gentle, patient-centered dental care can help you smile with confidence again.