Being afraid of the dentist is more common than you might think. In fact, many adults experience varying levels of anxiety when faced with a dental appointment.
For some, the fear is so intense that they avoid going altogether. But what exactly causes dental anxiety, and what can you do about it?
Dental anxiety often begins in childhood
Fear of the dentist is rarely something you're born with. Instead, it typically develops in childhood.
A bad experience in the dentist’s chair or hearing frightening stories from parents or others can shape a child’s perception and lead to anxiety later in life.
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Your own fear can affect your child
If you're a parent, be mindful of how you talk about the dentist around your kids.
Children are incredibly perceptive and can pick up on your stress or fear.
Try to keep a calm and positive tone when discussing dental visits and never use the dentist as a threat or punishment.
Adults can develop it too
Although dental anxiety often starts in early years, it can also develop in adulthood.
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Traumatic events, health issues, or new painful experiences can trigger a fear of dental procedures, especially if the person feels helpless, embarrassed, or out of control during treatment.
Always tell your dentist about your anxiety
One of the best ways to manage dental anxiety is by being open with your dentist.
When they know how you feel, they can adjust their approach – by allowing more time, explaining every step, and making the process more comfortable for you.
Choose a dentist you feel safe with
Trust is essential. Finding a dentist you feel comfortable with can make all the difference.
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Don’t be afraid to shop around, ask friends or family for recommendations, or even book a consultation just to meet the dentist before committing to a treatment.
Make a plan before your appointment
It helps to know what to expect. Make specific agreements with your dentist about what will happen, how long it will take, and what to do if you start feeling overwhelmed.
Having a plan gives you a greater sense of control and can significantly reduce fear.
Use relaxation techniques
Breathing exercises, mindfulness, meditation, and even guided hypnosis have helped many people cope with dental fear.
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Practicing deep breathing can activate your body’s natural calming response and make the experience much more bearable.
Consider professional help if needed
In severe cases, where anxiety becomes debilitating, therapy with a psychologist or anxiety specialist might be necessary.
Professional help can address the root causes of your fear and give you strategies to manage anxiety effectively.
Avoiding the dentist is not a solution
Skipping dental visits because of fear can lead to serious oral health problems – which may, in turn, cause even more anxiety.
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Infections, gum disease, and tooth decay can also affect your overall health. It’s crucial to find a way to get the care you need.
A child’s first experience matters
When it comes to kids, first impressions last. Make dental visits a normal, even fun, part of their routine.
Praise them after appointments and stay calm yourself – your attitude can make a huge difference in whether they grow up with fear or confidence.
This article is based on information from Netdoktor.dk.