Can you believe that for some people, visiting the dentist is a straightforward or even pleasant experience? If you have a hard time swallowing that idea, it might be because you dread going to the dentist.
Unfortunately for you, professional oral care is essential for preventing conditions that cause tooth loss, gum recession, and jawbone deterioration. But don’t lose heart! Learning more about dental anxiety causes and solutions can help you and your dentist identify the best way to make your appointments more comfortable.
Oral Hygiene Guilt
You wouldn’t be the first person to skip out on twice-daily brushing sessions, and you won’t be the last. Miss enough of them, though, and the state of your teeth can decline faster than you might expect. Some patients are too ashamed of their poor oral hygiene to set foot in a dentist’s office. However, a compassionate dentist won’t judge! What’s important to them is getting your oral health back on track.
Negative Medical Experiences
Whether you encountered less-than-stellar care at the hands of a dentist or another medical professional, having feelings of mistrust or unease is a valid response. No one appreciates being ignored, belittled, or mistreated. Moving past these negative associations can be challenging, so it’s important to give yourself grace and take your time finding a dentist who helps you feel safe.
Other Anxiety-Inducing Aversions
Sometimes the true source of anxiety is a bit hidden. If you have other fears or aversions that are often found in a dentist’s office, they could be causing you more trouble than you realize. Here are some examples:
- Needles
- Scratchy or scraping sensations from plaque removal
- Loud noises, bright lights, harsh smells, or busy atmospheres
- Sensitive teeth or gums
A licensed therapist or your dentist can provide recommendations for avoiding dental details you may find unpleasant.
Mental Health Hurdles
If you have an existing or undiagnosed mental or mood disorder, it could complicate your comfort during treatment. Some possibilities include:
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Depression
- Autism spectrum
- ADHD
In these cases, prescribed medication may or may not be enough to solve your difficulties. Once again, talking through what you find challenging about a dental appointment could help you pinpoint suitable accommodations.
Personalized Care Solutions
Dental visits don’t have to be the same for every patient. In fact, attentive dentists go out of their way to tailor their care for each individual’s needs and preferences. You and your dentist could come up with multiple different ways to ensure your comfort, but one common solution is sedation dentistry. With either laughing gas or a sedative pill, you’ll feel relaxed – possibly a little euphoric. If that sounds appealing, don’t forget to bring it up when you consult your dentist!
About the Practice
Our compassionate and caring team at Healthy Smiles Dental Care of Lansing prioritizes patient comfort. We’re proud to offer nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation for those who are nervous about upcoming appointments. Whatever your concerns, we’ll help you address them so you can feel safe and secure during your treatment. To contact our office for a personalized dental experience, call 517-333-3160.