How You Can Beat Dental Anxiety [BLOG]

If you’re ready to overcome your fears about going to the dentist so you can get your oral health back on track, today’s blog is for you! Dr. Mathew and all of us here at Creekview Family Dentistry put your comfort first. That’s why we’re sharing some information about dental anxiety and how you can beat it for good!

Why Do You Have Dental Anxiety?

Dental anxiety is a fear of going to the dentist, and you can experience many different levels of it. In fact, an estimated 30-40 million Americans have some form of dental anxiety. Generally, we know that people aren’t thrilled about their dental appointments, but dental anxiety goes beyond that. It’s when you’re nervous enough about going that it inhibits your ability to follow through with appointments altogether. That’s not good for your smile or your health! Regular professional checkups are a huge part of getting and keeping healthy teeth and gums. So let’s take a look at some possible reasons you might be anxious about going to the dentist. You Haven’t Been To The Dentist In A Long Time If it’s been several years since you’ve been to the dentist, it’s only going to add to the fear you feel about going. When you’re not sure what to expect, you can create a destructive scenario of potentially awful experiences in your mind that keep you away. You might also be embarrassed about the state of your oral health because of your lack of dental care. You’ve Been Scared Of The Dentist Since Childhood It’s pretty common for people to avoid the dentist because they’re still affected by memories of bad dental visits from the past. If you were afraid of the dentist as a child, then you’re more likely to avoid it as an adult. You’ve Heard Too Many Horror Stories About Dental Visits There’s a reason stories are told and retold through the ages. That’s because stories are powerful. So if you’ve listened to horror story after horror story from friends, family, and colleagues, chances are you’ll do all you can to avoid the same things happening to you. You’re Uncomfortable Not Being In Charge For people who are used to being charge on a daily basis, it can be really hard to relinquish that sense of control. That’s why some people feel anxious about going to dental appointments. You know that someone else will be calling the shots, and that can be pretty uncomfortable if you’re usually the one in control.

How You Can Beat Dental Anxiety For Good!

With so many reasons behind dental anxiety, our team wants to be ready for the diverse needs of fearful patients. At Creekview Family Dentistry, we’re committed to making patients feel as comfortable as possible by offering a variety of strategies for overcoming dental anxiety. Comfort Options Any doctor’s office can be intimidating, especially to patients who are already afraid to be there. We try to create a relaxing, cozy environment in our Lewisville dental office that feels much more like home than a sterile, medical environment. We also offer TV and headphones so you can enjoy a nice distraction while you’re receiving treatment to drown out the things about surroundings that might otherwise make you feel uneasy. Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas) For mild anxiety, we find nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, to be an effective way to help patients relax. It’s safe for all ages and helps you get the dental care you need without having to endure the tension and nervousness you’re used to experiencing. Oral Sedation This is a stronger form of sedation you would take just before your appointment that allows you to fall into a deeper level of relaxation. You’ll be awake during your procedure, but you won’t care that you’re undergoing treatment. With oral sedation, you’ll be groggy enough before and after your appointment that we will want you to arrange transportation to and from our dental office.

Let Us Help You Beat Dental Anxiety NOW!

Whatever your level of fear about dental care or how long it’s kept you away from the dentist, Creekview Family Dentistry will see you through it every step of the way. We want you to have a healthy, beautiful smile and will do all we can to make you feel welcome and relaxed in our Lewisville dental office. To learn more about the ways we can help ease your fears of dental care, visit us here in Lewisville, TX. Call Creekview Family Dentistry at 972-505-3423 or fill out our convenient online form.