Summary
- Dental anxiety is widespread. According to WebMD, almost 20% of Americans avoid visiting the dentist because of fear.
- Dental anxiety and dental phobia are different, and phobia is not shared and should be treated with patience with the help of professionals.
- It is better to visit the dentist and express the fear.
- Mindful practices can help to overcome anxiety.
What is dental anxiety?
It is fear, stress, and worry when people hear about dentist or dental checkups. Sometimes, people start to panic by thinking about dental treatment. This fear delays the process of therapy and sometimes leads to severe problems. Research stated that women have dental anxiety 1.32 times more than men, and 46.7% of the population with this fear have poor oral health. More than 20% of Americans have dental anxiety. Mental health conditions like PTSD and generalized anxiety disorder can increase the chances of this issue.
Symptoms of dental anxiety
- Palpitation or high heartbeat
- Fainting
- Low blood pressure
- Panic
- Visible distress
- Sweating
- Withdrawing to go for treatment
- Avoiding dental appointments
These symptoms indicate that the person might be anxious, which can also make it difficult for the dentist to treat the issue on time.
Effect of anxiety on oral and overall health
Ignoring or delaying dental treatment is not the solution to dental anxiety; it can worsen oral health. People who are anxious about visiting the dentist can develop inconsistent habits, like inadequate brushing or flossing. This increases the risk of bacteria and plaque buildup.
Gum problems or pain might be controlled for some time through medications, but if they are treated on time, it can result in tooth decay or tooth loss. Sometimes, people grind their teeth by even thinking of visiting a dentist. This friction on teeth can break, crack, or chip teeth. This opens the passage for bacteria to enter and cause infection. Chronic stress can also develop muscle tension, affecting jaw health.
Moreover, bad breath, inability to smile confidently, etc., can lower self-esteem. So, there is no harm in visiting the dentist on a regular basis to protect teeth from severe issues. This behavior not only worsens the situation of oral health but also increases the complexity of treatment.
Moreover, oral health has a significant impact on overall health. It can increase the chances of diabetes, respiratory infections, cardiovascular disease, etc.
Cause of dental anxiety
Dental anxiety can be caused by a number of factors, including-
- Most dental treatments are painless, but still, a lot of people have a fear of needles or those machines. This fear of pain stops them from visiting the dentist.
- Due to experience or dental trauma, they tend to avoid going for treatment. This also added trust issues for other dentists.
- Fear of losing control during the procedure.
- Traumas like abuse are also the reason behind dental anxiety.
Tips to manage dental anxiety
- Talking to dentist
It is important to express your feelings to the dentist so they can understand the possibilities of handling you. Based on your preferences for less busy hours, early morning timings can be chosen. That will give you time to relax and proceed with the procedure. Moreover, they can also help you deal with fear.
- Relaxing techniques
Deep breathing, muscle relaxation exercises, guided imagery, and meditation are some of the techniques that can help to ease the mind. Guided imagery is a practice in which one creates an imaginary image where they find peace and relax.
- Distraction
Squeezing the ball or listening to music or podcasts can also help. Talk to the dentist beforehand, or ask the dental nurse to sit with you and discuss something interesting. They understand this fear and give space to everyone.
- Support from family or friends
Sometimes, family or friends neglect their loved ones’ dental anxiety. First, communicate the fear you are experiencing and bring them to the dental appointment. Their presence can offer a sense of comfort.
- Analgesia and nitrous oxide
This medication is used to relieve pain, and dentists use it mainly as well. The medication can help you relax from minor pain as well. Moreover, sometimes, the dentist uses nitrous oxide (laughing gas) on their patients before or during the process. You will feel relaxed and awake. But before the process, talk to your dentist about this.
- Relaxing medication
There are several medications that help to relax the person with dental anxiety. If you fear, you can ask your dentist about the relaxing medication.
- Where to get help?
There is nothing to hide. Dental anxiety is a common thing, and it can be easily treated with the help of guidance. Elite Dental Group has been an experienced specialist who has been treating people for several years. They know that every person has their way of dealing with things. If you have any queries related to dental anxiety or techniques to treat them, you can contact Elite Dental Group. Book your appointment today.