Going to the Dentist Gives Me Anxiety: What Can I Do?

Dental anxiety is common; many people feel nervous before an appointment. For some, it’s a mild feeling of uneasiness. For others, the fear can be strong enough to delay or avoid dental care altogether. 

As your dental expert team at Austin Advanced Dentistry, led by Aditi Saxena, DDS, we’re here to put you at ease. There are several ways to make your dental visits more comfortable, including options like sedation dentistry.

Here’s what we want you to know.

Why people feel anxious about the dentist

Dental anxiety can develop for many reasons. Sometimes, a negative experience in the past makes you feel uneasy about returning. You may worry about pain, needles, or the sounds of dental tools. Even the feeling of not having control while sitting in the dental chair can cause stress.

Embarrassment about oral health problems can also contribute to dental anxiety. Some patients avoid appointments because they’re worried about being judged. However, our role as dental professionals is to improve your oral health, not criticize you. That’s why we aim to create a comfortable and supportive environment for every patient.

Talk openly with our dental team

One of the best ways to manage dental anxiety is by communicating with our dental team and staff. Let us know how you feel before your appointment begins. 

We’re experienced in helping anxious patients and can adjust our approach to help you feel more comfortable. For example, Dr. Saxena may explain each step of the procedure so there are no surprises. You can also signal to our team if you need a break during treatment. 

Knowing you have some control during the appointment can help ease anxiety.

Simple ways to relax during your appointment

Practicing slow, deep breathing can help calm your body and lower your heart rate during your visit. You can also listen to music, a podcast, or an audiobook through headphones, which can serve as a helpful distraction.

Schedule your appointment earlier in the day to help prevent anxiety from building as you wait. Bringing a trusted friend or family member with you can also provide reassurance.

How sedation dentistry can help

If you have moderate to severe dental anxiety, sedation dentistry may be an effective solution. This approach uses medication to help you relax during the dental procedure.

One sedation option is nitrous oxide, often called laughing gas. You inhale it through a mask, and it helps you feel calm and comfortable while remaining awake and able to respond to Dr. Saxena.

Another option is oral sedation, which involves taking a prescribed medication before your appointment. This type of sedation helps reduce anxiety and allows you to feel deeply relaxed throughout the procedure.

Dr. Saxena will review your medical history and discuss which sedation option is safest and most appropriate for your needs.

Don’t let anxiety prevent you from getting care

You shouldn’t avoid dental visits due to anxiety. Not going to the dentist can lead to more serious oral health problems over time, including cavities, gum disease, and infections. Regular dental checkups help catch problems early, making treatment easier and more comfortable.

If dental anxiety has been holding you back, remember that this is a common issue among many people. But there is a solution!

We recommend that you talk with our dental team, try relaxation techniques, and consider sedation dentistry. These important steps can help you feel calmer and more confident during your dental visits.

Schedule a consultation today to learn more. We’re here for you! Simply click here to request an appointment at our office in Austin, Texas.