Some people do not look forward to dental appointments. Most dental procedures are not painful, but just being examined can make people feel stressed. If you fear the dentist, you are not alone. There is nothing to fear about going to the dentist for check-ups and procedures.
Today, procedures are easy to perform and you will exhibit minimal to no pain at all. These anxieties can contribute to oral health problems, unless the problem is confronted and treated. Dr. Browning, Houston dentist, has the ability to treat and calm patients with anxieties, making your next appointment stress free.
Why do I have a Dental Anxiety?
The causes of dental anxieties are numerous and include factors both related and unrelated to dentistry. Past experiences will also inhibit the anxiety. This not only includes physically painful dental visits and treatments, but also psychologically uncomfortable experiences, such as being humiliated by dental professionals, family, friends or others.
Some patient’s fear of going to the dentist or getting dental procedures done is so severe that they may lose sleep at night and worry excessively about what might happen at the dentist’s office. Dental anxiety is common and it is stated that up to 15 percent of Americans avoid seeing a dentist due to their fear.
Some other reasons contributing to dental anxiety and dental phobia include:
- Fear of pain
- Feelings of helplessness and loss of control
- Embarrassment or shame about the look and condition of the teeth, as well as the fearful behavior itself.
- Past bad experiences, which includes physically painful dental visits, but also psychologically uncomfortable experiences.
- History of abuse
- Observational or vicarious learning
- Post-traumatic stress
- Fear of needles
- Hopelessness that neglect or the condition has made it too late to do anything
- Adverse effects of medication or their ineffectiveness in providing relief from anxiety and pain
How do I overcome my Dental Anxiety?
If you have a dental anxiety, you should always communicate with Dr. Browning, your dentist in Spring and Houston, TX. The best thing you can do to get over your dental anxiety is to talk with your dentist about it. If you are anxious about something, come right out and talk to your dentist about it because your dentist is a patient too.
During a procedure, talk with your hands. It is often difficult to speak with your mouth while you are undergoing treatment, so talk to your dentist before your procedure on how you will communicate if a problem arises or you feel discomfort. A simple raise of the hand could signal discomfort, allowing your dentist to adjust the anesthesia appropriately. Additionally, you can benefit from distracting yourself. Let your mind wander and try focusing on another thought or a feature that stands out in the office. Letting your mind wander can help ease some of your anxiety.
Oral sedation is frequently used for many anxious dental patients and works extremely well. GA and IV sedation are appropriate for people receiving long and/or complex oral surgical procedures such as implants. It is also used with certain physical/mental handicaps, but is recommended for only a small percentage of highly phobic dental patients.
Contact Dr. Brent Browning, cosmetic dentist in Houston, if you suffer from dental anxiety. With help from Dr. Browning, you can receive the care you need without the fear that is caused by dental anxiety.