Understanding Dental Anxiety: Making Regular Check-Ups Easier 

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You know that feeling in the pit of your stomach when it’s time for a dental check-up? That knot of anxiety that makes you want to reschedule or skip the appointment? You’re not alone. Research shows that around 36% of the U.S. population suffers from fear of dental treatment, with 3% having dentophobia and refusing to see the dentist at all ¹. Going to the dentist isn’t really a fun experience for most people. But here’s the thing: regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining good oral health. Skip these appointments and you might suffer from more significant problems down the line, such as gum disease, tooth decay and even systemic issues. That’s why it’s so important to find ways to manage severe dental anxiety and make those check-ups a little less scary. And it all starts with understanding dental anxiety. In this article, we’ll cover the common causes of dental anxiety and equip you with helpful tips to make the next dental visit much breezier.

What are the common causes of dental anxiety?

Dental anxiety can come from a variety of factors. Here are some of the most common culprits:

Fear of the pain

The thought of needles, drills, or other dental instruments can be enough to scare anyone. This fear is often rooted in the anticipation of discomfort or the memories of previous painful experiences. According to WebMD, fear of pain is the primary reason why the majority of people avoid the dentist. ²

But the good news is that modern dentistry has come a long way when it comes to minimizing discomfort. You’ve now got sedation dentistry, numbing agents, and proper pain management strategies, meaning most procedures can be completed with minimal to no pain.

Feeling of losing control

Surrendering yourself to a dentist’s expertise can be unsettling, particularly if you’ve had negative experiences in the past. It’s not uncommon for patients to feel a sense of vulnerability when they’re lying back and unable to see what’s happening in their mouths. This loss of control can be a significant source of anxiety. Thankfully, you can possibly alleviate these feelings through open communication and a trusting relationship with the dentist.

A good dentist will explain each step of the dental treatment, check you regularly, and ensure you’re comfortable the entire process. Additionally, establishing a signal, such as raising a hand, can give you a sense of control and allow you to pause the treatment if needed.

Your choice of dentist or dental clinic can make all the difference. Go for one that promises a safe and comfortable experience every single time. For instance, I asked my local dentist about what they can offer. Apart from their top-notch services, they also emphasize that it’s their mission for any check-up and procedure to be as painless as possible. That’s what sealed the deal.

Embarrassment and insecurity

Worries about the condition of your teeth or potential bad breath can lead to feelings of shame and self-consciousness. Many people with dental anxiety fear being judged or criticized by the dentist or hygienist, which can make them hesitant to seek regular check-ups. In a 2022 survey, 60.54% of the participants would feel embarrassed and worried about their “bad teeth.” ³ This self-consciousness can create a vicious cycle, as avoiding the dentist due to embarrassment can lead to poor oral health. One must remember that dentists are healthcare professionals whose primary goal is to help patients, not pass judgment. A good dentist will approach any concerns with empathy and professionalism to provide a safe and comfortable environment for their patients.

Fear of confined spaces

The confined space of the dental chair and the feeling of having the mouth held open can trigger claustrophobic tendencies. For those with a fear of enclosed spaces, the dental office can feel suffocating and overwhelming, exacerbating their anxiety levels.

As per research, around 12.5% of the population experiences claustrophobia, making it a significant contributor to dental anxiety. The sensation of being trapped or unable to move freely can induce panic attacks or intense feelings of discomfort. ⁴

Thankfully, many dentists are aware of this issue and are actively taking steps to alleviate claustrophobic feelings. These may involve keeping the door open during the procedure, using smaller dental tools, or providing distractions like music or television.

Bad past dental experiences

If you’ve had a particularly painful, traumatic, or uncomfortable dental procedure in the past, it can create a lasting aversion to future visits. These past traumas can create a conditioned response where the sights, sounds, and smells of the dental office trigger feelings of fear and dread.

It’s essential to communicate these past experiences with your current dentist, as they can take steps to address your special concerns and work with you to create a more positive association with dental visits.

What are some strategies for a calmer dental experience?

Now you have a better understanding of what might be fueling your anxiety. Here are some practical tips to prepare yourself for a smoother dental experience:

Select a dentist you trust

Not every dentist is going to be the right fit for you. Thus, don’t be afraid to do a little dentist dating until you find one who checks all the boxes. Maybe it’s an office with a super friendly staff that makes you feel welcomed from the moment you walk in. Or perhaps it’s a dentist who takes the time to explain the dental procedures in plain English instead of using all that medical jargon. Whatever your needs are, keep looking until you find a dental soulmate who puts you at ease.

Communicate

Have an honest conversation with your dentist about your anxiety. They’ve heard it all before, and they want you to feel at ease. Tell them straight up what gets you worked up. Is it the sound of the drill, the feeling of being confined, or just the general vibe of being in a waiting room?  A good dentist will listen and do whatever they can to make you more comfortable. Maybe they can walk you through each step before they do it, give you a signal to take a breather if you need one, or even offer you some laughing gas to take the edge off.

Desensitize

The best way to face fear is to lean into it little by little. Why not start small by booking just a casual meet-and-greet with the dentist and staff? No poking or prodding but just a chill consultation session to get used to the vibe. Scope out the dental office, have them show you around, and let them put a friendly face to the practice.

Once you’ve gotten comfortable with the setting and people, that first actual appointment won’t seem like such a scary deal.

Do relaxation techniques

Methods like deep breathing techniques, muscle relaxation, or even visualizing a happy, calm scene can work wonders for managing anxiety at the moment. Spend some time practicing these relaxation tricks at home. Then, use them during your regular dental appointments as a secret weapon when you feel that dental anxiety creeping in.

Find ways to distract yourself

Bring along a pair of headphones and listen to soothing music or podcasts during your dental appointments. Alternatively, read a book or magazine to take your mind off what’s happening in your mouth.

Key takeaway

Overcoming dental anxiety is not an easy road to tread. But it’s one that’s worth taking and it all begins with understanding dental anxiety in the first place. Always remember that the dentist is there to help you and provide dental care. It’s never their intention to cause you distress. With a few smart moves coupled with a positive attitude, in no time you can watch those dental jitters vanish into thin air. The result? You can keep that smile healthy for years to come.

1. “Dentophobia (Fear of Dentists)”, Source: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22594-dentophobia-fear-of-dentists
2. “Controlling Dental Pain”, Source: https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/controlling-dental-pain 
3. “A survey of patients’ concerns about visiting the dentist and how dentists can help”, Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9306701/ 
4. “Claustrophobia (Fear of Enclosed Spaces)”, Source: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21746-claustrophobia