How to Handle Your Fear of the Dentist

Does the thought of walking into a dentist’s office send shivers down your spine? If so, you might have dental anxiety. It is a common fear that can lead to avoiding important oral health care. But it doesn't have to be this way. 

Overcoming your fear of the dentist is a must for you to maintain good dental health. Here at SPA Dental Group, we have some strategies to help you handle your fear and make your dental visits a little less daunting. Here’s where to start:

Reach out to our team

Choosing a dentist who understands and empathizes with your fear is essential when overcoming your dental worries. We’re dental professionals specializing in treating our patients in New York City and Washington, DC, with the utmost care. We provide a gentle and compassionate approach, making the experience less intimidating. 

Call our friendly staff, and feel free to ask questions. We’re here to put you at ease and build a relationship of trust.

Communicate your fears

Don't hesitate to share your anxiety with our team. Letting us know about your fears can help us tailor our approach to make you more comfortable. We can explain procedures in detail, give you breaks when needed, and use techniques like distraction and relaxation to ease your anxiety.

Begin with gradual exposure

If you're extremely fearful, consider making shorter visits initially to build up your tolerance. Start with a simple preventive care checkup and cleaning to become more familiar with our dental environment and gradually work up to more involved treatments, if needed.

Bring a support system

Having a trusted friend or family member accompany you to your dental appointments can provide a sense of security and comfort. They can offer emotional support and help distract you from your fears during the visit.

Try distraction techniques

When you arrive at our office, practice deep breathing or visualization exercises to stay calm and focused on something positive. To keep you comfortable, we have comfortable A-dec dental chairs in our treatment suites, which provide pressure mapping for a pleasant experience - especially during longer appointments.

Know your sedation options

We offer sedation dentistry to help you relax and alleviate anxiety during your visit. 

We provide nitrous oxide, known as laughing gas, to help you drift into a euphoric state. We also offer oral sedation that you take 30-60 minutes before your appointment, which will make you drowsy.

Practice good oral care at home

Maintaining optimal oral hygiene can reduce the need for extensive dental work and lessen the anxiety associated with dental visits. Brush and floss regularly, and follow our advice to keep your teeth healthy.

Understand the procedure

Knowledge is power. Understanding what to expect during your dental procedure can alleviate anxiety. We explain the procedure and its purpose so you know what to expect.

Reward yourself

After your dental visit, treat yourself to something enjoyable as a reward for overcoming your fear. This positive reinforcement can help change your perception of dental appointments.

Understanding the importance of caring for your oral health

Your dental health affects the health of your smile and impacts your overall well-being. That’s why overcoming your fear of the dentist is essential.

With the right strategies and support, you can face your dental anxiety and ensure your oral health remains a top priority. By taking these steps, you can transform the dentist's chair into a place of comfort and care. Don't let fear win. We’re here for you!

Contact the office closest to you today. Call our friendly staff or book an appointment with us online today.