Dealing with dental anxiety

Lots of people don’t visit the dentist. This can be for a variety of reasons but can lead to a small problem becoming a big one.

One of the common reasons why people don’t visit the dentist is anxiety. Lots of people say they experience a level of apprehension when it comes to the dentist, but this prevents good oral, and general, health.

At Canberra Dental Care we offer comprehensive support for nervous patients to ensure you feel welcome and comfortable. It doesn’t matter if you haven’t been to the dentist for one year, ten years, or even 50; once you’ve entered the practice you have made the first step in overcoming your fear – something you should feel extremely proud of.

Here are some steps you can take to help you feel more confident:

Step One

Familiarise yourself with the staff at the practice. This may be just entering the practice and having a conversation with the receptionist. Getting to know the staff that work there is a great way to feel comfortable when you walk in, as you will recognise a familiar face.

Step Two

Meet the dentist. Meeting the dentist for the first time doesn’t always have to mean you are sitting back in the dental chair with your mouth wide open. Instead, schedule a 15-minute conversation with the dentist; explain to the receptionist that you have a phobia and you just simply want to meet him/her and have a discussion. At this point you can discuss our inhalation sedation and how that can help reduce anxiety.

Step Three

The first check-up. Once you’ve met the dentist, it is time to schedule your first check-up. The dentist will already know you have a fear, so will know to take extra care. The first check-up is a chance to have a look at your overall oral health, by checking your gums, teeth and mouth. A treatment plan will then be discussed with you to look at any future treatment you may need. Don’t forget that whatever happens is completely down to you, and treatment is only carried out when you’re ready for it to happen.

Once you’ve taken the first three steps into overcoming your dental fear, you’ll be well on track to perfecting your oral health.