At West Lakes Dentistry, you can feel safe and comfortable in our offices no matter your past experiences with dental treatments. Our number one priority is our patients’ health and wellness, and that includes their mental well-being!
Dealing With Dental Anxiety
Over half of all Americans say that they experience nervousness about their dental visits and even avoid the dentist altogether. This phenomenon is known as “dental anxiety.” Dental anxiety is a feeling of nervousness when it comes to any dental setting, whether it be a check-up or something more involved like a cavity treatment.
Don’t Let Your Anxiety Keep You From the Care You Need
Anxiety can become a real problem when it prevents you from getting the help that you need, which can lead to more serious issues later in life such as tooth loss or cavities.
Untreated cavities can turn into invections. Infections are quite serious because they will not go away on their own. A professional will have to treat the infection to stop it from spreading and to heal the affected areas, putting an end to that bad toothache. Because of conditions like this, getting preventative care can save you time and money.
Is Your Fear Really Keeping You Safe?
People with dental anxiety may already be aware that they need treatment but may feel too afraid to follow through with an appointment. We truly sympathize with that fear. Fear is how we protect ourselves in the only way we know how: by not touching that hot pan or avoiding patches of ice on the sidewalk. The same can be said for dental treatments.
You Have Nothing to Fear From West Lakes Dentistry!
However, our job is to solve issues of pain and discomfort, not cause them! Root canals have a bad reputation for being painful when in reality they are tooth-saving procedures that drastically relieve a patient’s horrible toothache and treat the infection directly. Oral infections can even travel around in our bloodstream to other parts of the body if they aren’t treated!
Everyone may experience different levels of nervousness when it comes to their dental visits. The important thing to keep in mind is how it is affecting your life. A little worry is perfectly normal, but if you’re actively avoiding treatment that you need out of fear, you may have a more serious form of anxiety. Luckily, at West Lakes Dentistry we are here to help!
How Do I Stop Feeling Nervous?
Breathing exercises are one of the many tools you can use to help mitigate feelings of nervousness and tension. It’s important to breathe deeply, allowing your stomach to press out as you do. Hold that breath for a second or two, then slowly exhale. Keeping count can help redirect your thoughts to the present moment, such as 4 counts in, hold for 2, exhale for 4.
For patients who feel much more nervous about their appointment or upcoming procedures, we recommend that you communicate with us about your feelings. We are here to provide the healthcare you need with the respect that you deserve.
There are options available that can accommodate you, so that each time you visit us, it becomes a little easier each time.
Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry is a great option for those of us who struggle with anxiety. Two main options are commonly offered at dental clinics:
- Nitrous Oxide: Through laughing gas, you will be able to feel comfortable and relaxed during your appointment. Laughing gas, or nitrous oxide, gives patients a feeling of calm warmth similar to being drowsy. You will still be awake during your procedure, but much more at ease.
- Oral Conscious Sedation: If you feel that you may need something stronger to mitigate your anxiety, we recommend using oral conscious sedation which is a prescription drug that is taken before your visit. You will need someone to drive you to and from your appointment, butyou’ll be calm, comfortable, and relaxed during your appointment.
Overcome Your Dental Anxiety Now!
Call West Lakes Dentistry to learn more about sedation dentistry. We can walk you through the process and help you feel comfortable so you can get the care you need.