If just the thought of sitting in a dentist’s chair makes your palms sweat, you’re not alone. Dental anxiety is more common than many people realise – and it doesn’t just affect kids. Adults, too, can feel overwhelmed by the sounds, smells, and anticipation of dental procedures, leading some to delay or avoid appointments altogether. While this fear is understandable, skipping regular visits can have long-term effects on your oral health.
What Causes Dental Anxiety?
Everyone’s reason for feeling nervous at the dentist is different – for some, it stems from a past experience that didn’t go well or felt painful; others feel anxious about the unknown or a lack of control during a procedure.
Common anxiety triggers include the sound of drills, fear of needles, embarrassment about dental health, or even feeling rushed or misunderstood.
How to Feel More Comfortable at the Dentist
The good news is that dental anxiety can be managed, especially when you have the right strategies in place and a supportive dental team to help you feel more at ease while caring for your smile.
Here are seven practical ways to make your next dental visit more comfortable.
1. Have a Conversation With Your Dentist
Let your dentist know how you’re feeling, what worries you, and what helps you feel more at ease. A good dental team will take the time to listen and adapt their approach to support your comfort, whether that means explaining things in more detail or taking breaks more often.
2. Bring a Supportive Companion
Bringing along a friend or family member to your appointment can provide reassurance and help you feel more at ease in an unfamiliar environment. We pride ourselves on being a Bondi family dentist, so having other family members present during treatments is quite common.
3. Consider Sedation Options
If you’re facing more extensive dental work or suffer from severe anxiety, sedation may be an option. This can range from mild sedatives to full anaesthesia, depending on the procedure and your needs. Speak with your dentist about what options are available and whether they might be suitable for your situation.
4. Use Non-Verbal Signals
Establishing a simple hand signal, for example, raising your left hand to take a break, can give you a greater sense of control during your treatment. It allows you to pause whenever you need without having to speak mid-procedure.
5. Practice Relaxation Techniques
Breathing exercises, meditation, or even listening to calming music on the way to your appointment can make a real difference. You may also find visualisation helpful as it shifts your focus away from what’s happening around you during your treatment.
6. Try Distraction Techniques
Many dental practices encourage patients to wear headphones or watch TV during their treatment. Focusing on a podcast, playlist or show can shift your attention away from the procedure and help time pass more quickly.
7. Book an Early Appointment
If possible, book your appointment in the morning so you’re not spending the whole day thinking about it. Getting it out of the way earlier can reduce anticipatory stress and free up your afternoon to unwind.
Take the First Step Toward a More Relaxed Dental Visit
Overcoming dental anxiety doesn’t happen overnight, but with the right support and a few simple techniques, you can start to feel more confident about your making regular dental check-ups. Whether it’s a conversation with your dentist or finding a routine that helps you relax, each small step helps build trust and brings you closer to better oral health, without the accompanying fear and anxiety.
