Dental anxiety is something lots of people go through, and it can be extra nerve-wracking if you’re seeing signs you might need dentures.
For some people, dental anxiety is just a feeling of nerves or uneasiness before visiting the dentist, but for others, the fear can be so severe that they avoid having dental appointments all together.
Although it might feel daunting, coping with a fear of the dentist is really important for preventing severe dental and oral health issues that can come from avoiding the dentist long-term.
In this blog, we’ll discuss dental anxiety – what it is, how to manage it, and how to take care of your oral health as someone who hates visiting the dentist.
What is dental anxiety?
Dental anxiety refers to feelings of nervousness, stress, or even fear which crop up at the thought of visiting the dentist.
People go through this for lots of different reasons, whether the fear of the dentist comes from worries about pain, lack of control while sitting in the dentist’s chair, previous bad experiences, or just a dislike of clinical environments.
If you’re someone who’s scared of the dentist, it’s definitely worth exploring why – especially considering the importance of regular dental check-ups once you start wearing dentures.
Avoiding the dentist can lead to serious oral health problems over time, making it super important to find ways to deal with dental anxiety and feel more at ease while visiting the dentist.
How to overcome dental anxiety
Like any kind of anxiety, dental anxiety can be overwhelming, making you feel tense, stressed, or even experiencing physical symptoms.
If you’re someone who experiences unease at the thought of visiting the dentist, trying out some different techniques and approaches can make a real difference to your experience.
We recommend a few practical ways to help you feel more relaxed and in control when you’re in the dentist’s chair.
1. Bring a friend or family member for support
When you visit the dentist, having a friend or family member with you can help you feel more relaxed.
A familiar presence or friendly face nearby can give you a sense of comfort and even help distract you from those anxious feelings while you wait.
Just be sure to check with your dental provider that it’s okay to bring someone along for your visit!
2. Choose the right time for your appointment
Booking your dental appointment at the right time can make a big difference when it’s time for a visit, i.e., when you have less on your plate or are more likely to feel relaxed.
For example, if you’d prefer to get your appointment out of the way first thing, it’s better to try to book your appointment for early in the morning, or, if you’d prefer a quieter and more relaxed visit, you might want to look at a later afternoon slot.
3. Ask plenty of questions beforehand
A lot of the time, the more we dwell on dental anxiety and allow thoughts to build up, the more stressed we feel.
Speaking with your dentist about your check up or procedure beforehand can help to ease your mind and soothe any anxious ruminations.
Most of the time, we fear the worst outcome, so knowing what to expect and understanding each step of the process can help the whole experience feel less intimidating.
This is especially true if you’re thinking of getting dentures – understanding the denture process can make a huge difference in easing any concerns or worries you might have about going ahead with treatment.
If you’re in this position and want to explore some examples of things to discuss with your denture provider, read our top questions to ask before getting dentures.
4. Focus on the small victories
If you’ve experienced dental anxiety, remember that every single step you take towards managing and eventually overcoming the fear is a success in itself!
No matter whether it’s finally booking that overdue dentist appointment or showing up to the waiting room; every step should be celebrated as sign of progress.
Get denture support from First Class Dentures
We know that dental anxiety can feel insurmountable, but it’s important to know that overcoming it is possible with the right techniques and support.
At First Class Dentures, our fantastic team are here to make your denture journey smooth and stress-free.
If you’re ready to see for yourself, schedule a free consultation with us to learn more about our supportive, patient-focused approach to denture care and maintenance.
Don’t let dental anxiety hold you back from your dream smile – get in touch with us today!