Overcoming Anxiety: 3 Reasons Not to Fear Dental Visits

Although the American Dental Association recommends seeing your provider every 6 months for a routine checkup and cleaning, estimates suggest that only about 50% of the population adheres to this recommendation.

Unfortunately, some people are so anxious about sitting in the dentist’s chair that they avoid everything from standard preventive visits to more complex services needed to repair their teeth or gums, which can harm their dental health. Continue reading to learn 3 reasons to overcome your fear and make an appointment!

Reason #1: They’re More Concerned with Helping Than Judging

If your teeth are decayed or damaged, you might be scared that your dentist will judge or berate you for their current condition. Nobody wants to feel chastised, but the truth is that your provider’s main concern is improving your dental condition rather than scolding you for it.

Although they might ask questions about your medical or dental history, these are typically intended to help them diagnose any problems they find and help determine an appropriate solution, rather than to gather juicy details to hold over your head. But don’t be surprised if they provide additional tips for improving your at-home dental hygiene routine, too!

Reason #2: Advanced Technology can Improve Comfort

Thanks to ongoing advancements in dental technology and materials, today, many treatments and procedures are more comfortable and accurate than ever before. For instance, many providers use advanced digital X-rays to determine whether any issues have developed beneath the surface, a process that can often be completed in just a few minutes.

This also ensures that certain repairs or restorations, like tooth-colored fillings or dental crowns, fit better so they can avoid potential problems and are more likely to last longer.   

Reason #3: Many Providers Offer Options for Sedation

If you’re still feeling anxious about scheduling an appointment, you might ask your dentist if they offer options for sedation. For example, many providers are licensed to administer nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, which is inhaled through a mask placed over your nose while they work. Or they might offer oral conscious sedation as a pill that you’re prescribed to take before arriving for your procedure so the medication kicks in by the time they start your procedure.

These options don’t typically “knock you out”, but they do prevent your body from responding to external sensations, helping you remain calmer and more comfortable throughout your visit.

As you can see, there are several excellent reasons to overcome your dental anxiety and contact your provider to schedule an appointment sooner rather than later!

Meet the Author

Dr. Zack Walker takes pride in helping improve his patients’ daily lives by enhancing their dental health. He earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry, then completed his Advanced Education in General Dentistry program at the East Carolina University School of Dental Medicine. Today, he uses advanced technology to offer a complete menu of services, including dental sedation, to meet your unique needs conveniently under one roof. You can request an appointment on the website or call (336) 993-3727.