5 Ways To Combat Dental Anxiety From Clinical Psychologist Turned Dentist — Dr. Jonathan Gorman
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5 Ways To Prevent Dental Anxiety From A Clinical Psychologist Turned Dentist
Are you an anxious dental patient? First off, you are not alone. Many people are fearful of the dentist. Some had bad experiences in the past leaving them concerned that all future experiences will be bad too. And others have had little experience with modern-day dental treatment and simply fear the unknown.
Dentistry doesn’t have to hurt! You, yes you, can have a terrific experience at the dentist!
The key to having a worry-free, painless experience, has to do with modern-day technology, but more importantly, stems from having a compassionate, caring dentist, who is properly trained to help ease your fears and concerns. You have it in you to be comfortable at the dentist’s office. It is the job of your dental health team to help bring this out of you.
Sometimes it is as simple as just taking extra time to help the fearful patient understand the procedure at hand. However, for the deeply fearful patient, having a dentist with training in psychological techniques, can be the difference between having a good dental experience and not.
Various levels of sedation dentistry can help too. Visiting a dentist who can offer options ranging from nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to moderate/deep sedation, in a safe environment is something to be considered. However, although sedation is a great tool, the ultimate goal should always be to help the patient to develop a comfort level at the dentist’s office such that he/she doesn’t need sedation.
So, what should you do if you are apprehensive about your upcoming dental visit?
5 Steps To Overcome Your Fear Of The Dentist
First, make sure your dentist knows this! You should not be expected to deal with this on your own! Call and ask to speak with the dentist to discuss your concerns. If he/she won't talk to you ahead of the visit, then find another dentist! In my Yonkers dental office, we have a unique "Nervous Patient" program designed to not only help patients during their visit — but also give them the confidence to keep coming back.
Second, remember that fear is often driven by the phrase: “What if.” “What if” it hurts, “what if” I feel trapped, “what if” my tooth can’t be saved and I need an extraction, are examples of this thinking. Work on changing this thought process from “What if” to “What is!” In other words, don’t waste time and energy worrying about what might be, just focus on the here and now of what actually is occurring. So much anxiety is anticipatory and the actual situation that was feared never comes to fruition!
Third, do your best to sleep well the night before your visit. Coming to your visit well-rested can help you to stay relaxed.
Fourth, if it has been a long time since you have seen a dentist, or just the thought of even driving to see the dentist gets your palms sweaty, then consider doing a dry run first! Try driving to your dental office on a day that you don’t have an appointment, just to have that experience without it having to be tied to actually seeing the dentist. Call ahead and ask if you can visit the inside of the office, meet the staff, meet the dentist, all without having to do any treatment. By separating these things, and by taking small steps toward your ultimate goal of having a fantastic dental visit, it can make the process less overwhelming.
Fifth, don’t forget to breathe! Deep diaphragmatic breathing can often get anyone out of an anxious situation.
Finally, don’t forget to celebrate your accomplishments, and don’t be hard on yourself if things don’t go as planned. Chances are your fear of the dentist didn’t develop overnight, it might take time to overcome it. So, for every step that you get closer to having a great visit, reward yourself! And in the event of a stumble, just work to pick yourself right back up!
You can’t do this alone. Your dental team must be involved in helping you through this process. Make sure you are in a supportive environment, one where your dentist is always delighted to see you. You should never be made to feel that you are more work or a burden on your dental team. And you should never feel rushed or pressured. Choose an office that enjoys seeing people just like you! Ask about what training the dentist has had that makes him/her more qualified to help you. Look for evidence that the dentist wants to work with, and has had success with people in your situation.
Fear doesn’t have to prevent you from getting the smile you deserve. With the right help and support, you can and will get to the point where you enjoy your trips to see the dentist! At my Yonkers, NY dental office, nervous patients are always welcome! My goal is to make your visit to the dentist a positive experience. Want to learn more? Let’s chat! You’re welcome to visit my website at Ouchlessdentist.com or give me a call. I look forward to chatting with you soon.
Jonathan H. Gorman, DDS
984 N Broadway Suite 504, Yonkers, NY 10701
(914) 963-1460
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Disclaimer:
If you or any other person has a dental concern, you should consult with your dentist directly. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something that you have read on this blog or in any linked materials.
