Dental fear or phobia is a very common dental condition that makes it challenging for a patient to visit the dentist. Dental fear or anxiety is the fear of dentists or dental procedures. Dental fear or anxiety usually occurs because of a traumatic experience in the past or the fear of pain. Whatever the reason is, dental fear or anxiety should be treated.

Discuss your fear with your dentist

If you have had an unpleasant experience in the past or have heard horror stories from friends and family, you should talk to your dentist about it.

Your dentist is there to help you and ease your anxiety. Talk to him or her about your fears and worries regarding dental treatments. Your dentist will have a way of calming you down and making your experience as pleasant as possible. If needed, your doctor may recommend you take medication or use anesthesia to ease your discomfort. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of these methods.

Inform your dentist about your medical history and discuss any medications that you are taking and if you would be allergic to anything used during the procedure. This will let your dentist anticipate possible complications and make special arrangements for you.

Agree on a signal for the dentist

It’s normal to feel anxious or nervous at the dentist’s office. You may have feelings of fear or even panic when going to the dentist for a procedure. A way to ease your worry is to agree on a signal with your dentist that will let him or her know if you need to take a break or need a break between procedures. Your signal can be a small hand gesture, or a raised finger that can be seen by the dentist but won’t be seen by the patient sitting in the waiting room.

Take a friend or relative with you for emotional support

Going to the dentist may cause anxiety for some people. This is understandable, as dental procedures involve instruments like drills and needles. If you are feeling anxious during a procedure, ask your dentist if you can take someone along for support. You can also bring a distraction, like a music player or a handheld gaming device, to keep you occupied during the procedure. If anxiety is keeping you from going to the dentist, consider sedation dentistry. There are different levels of sedation available depending on the level of anxiety you’re experiencing. Talk to your dentist to find out which level of sedation will work best for you. 

Consider sedation dentistry

Sedation dentistry may be your answer to easing your anxiety. It keeps you awake and calm to help you through dental procedures. The dentist will discuss your options and determine the best choice for you based on your current health conditions and the procedure itself.

You can get nitrous oxide, oral consciousness, or IV sedation. Your options will depend on the procedure you’re undergoing. Talk to your dentist to find out what’s right for you. Inhalation sedation or laughing gas is the most common form of sedation used in the dental office. The patient inhales a gas that helps them relax during the procedure. Patients feel calm, happy, and euphoric after the procedure. However, the effect wears off within a few minutes after the procedure is over. Afterward, the patient can function normally with no side effects.