Dr. Kevin Molldrem – How to Overcome Dental Anxiety
It happens to almost all of us: we have a dental checkup scheduled and we become nervous, despite the fact that it may just be for a routine teeth cleaning. But there are some people who have serious dental anxiety and fear. This is called dentophobia or odontophobia. You’re not going to get over dental anxiety right away, and that’s okay. Dr. Kevin Molldrem shares some actions that both you and your dentist can take to work together to ease anxiety or dental fears.
Dental Anxiety
Dental anxiety is when you feel anxious or frightened about going to the dentist. It can make you delay or even avoid getting dental treatment. Some things at the dentist’s office, like needles or drills, can trigger this anxiety. When dental anxiety is really strong and makes you terrified of the dentist, it’s called a dental phobia.
People with dental anxiety might:
- Sweat a lot
- Feel their heart racing or pounding
- Have low blood pressure and even faint
- Show obvious signs of distress, like crying or panicking
- Withdraw or use humor or aggression to hide their anxiety
Causes of Dental Anxiety and Phobia
Dental anxiety can happen because of:
- A scary experience at the dentist or another healthcare place
- Previous trauma to the head or neck
- Other traumatic experiences, like abuse
- Feeling anxious or depressed, or having post-traumatic stress disorder
- Thinking of the mouth as a personal space and feeling invaded when someone works on it
- Worrying about losing control during treatment
- Trust issues with dentists or healthcare providers
- Anxiety linked to other conditions, like agoraphobia (fear of being unable to escape), claustrophobia (fear of closed spaces), or obsessive-compulsive disorder, where there’s a strong focus on cleanliness.
Tips for Overcoming Dental Fears
1. Find a Dentist Who Understands Your Needs
First things first, it’s vital to find a dentist who is understanding, especially if you feel anxious about dental visits. Look for one who has experience treating patients with anxiety and fear of dental procedures. According to Dr. Kevin Molldrem, a good dentist will take the time to explain everything clearly and offer ways to make you feel more comfortable during appointments. Don’t worry if past experiences have left you feeling scared; dentistry has changed and there are new techniques and technologies available to make your visits less stressful.
2. Communicate with the Dental Team
Everyone at the dental office is there to help you feel relaxed and cared for. When you arrive, you’ll likely meet the dental assistant, who will prepare you for your appointment. You’ll also spend time with the hygienist for cleanings and other treatments, while the dentist will handle examinations and procedures.
If you’re nervous about visiting the dentist, it’s important to talk to them about it. Letting the dental team know how you feel will help them make adjustments to ensure your visit is as comfortable as possible. They’re used to helping patients with dental anxiety, so don’t be afraid to speak up.
3. Bring Support Along
Bringing someone with you who makes you feel safe can make a big difference. Whether it’s a spouse, friend, parent, or child, having a support person with you can provide comfort during your appointment. Some dental practices allow support people to be in the room with you, which can be reassuring. Even if they can’t be with you during the procedure, knowing they’re waiting for you can be comforting.
4. Use Distractions During Your Appointment
Many dental offices have TVs you can watch during your appointment, but if not, you can use your smartphone or tablet to watch shows or movies. If watching isn’t an option, listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks can help distract you from any anxiety you may be feeling.
5. Try Relaxation Techniques
Before your appointment, try deep breathing or meditation to help calm your nerves. Taking a few minutes to practice controlled breathing can lower your heart rate and blood pressure, which can help prevent or reduce panic attacks. Visualization methods, where you imagine yourself in a calm place, can also be helpful before and during your appointment.
6. Choose Your Appointment Time Wisely
Schedule your dental appointments at times when you’re not feeling rushed or stressed. Avoid cramming appointments into busy parts of your day, like during your lunch break. Give yourself plenty of time to prepare for your visit and choose a day when you don’t have other commitments.
7. Avoid Overthinking
It’s natural to want to research procedures before your appointment, but try not to dwell on the details too much, especially if it makes you anxious. While it’s good to be informed, focusing too much on what might happen can increase your anxiety. Instead, try to distract yourself with activities you enjoy, like watching a movie or exercising.
Remember, dentists and their teams are there to support you and provide personalised care. Don’t hesitate to communicate your anxiety and use the support methods that work best for you.
Closing Remarks
In summary, you can overcome dental anxiety with support and simple strategies. Find a caring dentist, share your worries openly, and use distractions or relaxation methods during visits. Dr. Kevin Molldrem concluded by saying that asking for help is a brave step toward better oral health. Regular dental check-ups aren’t just about teeth; they’re crucial for your overall well-being. Taking care of your smile boosts confidence and keeps you healthier. Don’t let fear stop you from getting the care you deserve. You’re not alone, and together, we can make dental visits less daunting and more manageable.
