Fear of going to the dentist is not uncommon. Some studies have found as many as 36% of people have anxiety associated with dental care, while up to 12% are extremely fearful. Unfortunately, this fear can lead to poor oral health, as many avoid going to the dentist at all.

If dental anxiety is causing you to skip appointments, we can help. Learn more about this common phenomenon, how to deal with it, and how Newtown can put you at ease.

What Causes Dental Anxiety?

Anxiety and fear are common emotions. Even if you are not actively afraid of going to the dentist, you might have some anxiety associated with it. A racing heartbeat, sweating, a drop in blood pressure, fainting, and avoiding going to the dentist are all signs it gives you anxiety.

There are many reasons people fear dentists or feel anxious when they go:

• A past traumatic experience during a dental visit
• Any past trauma, especially abuse
• Pain in the head or neck that makes dental visits more uncomfortable
• A fear of being vulnerable
• General anxiety or other mental health issues
• Discomfort with not being in control and trusting others

Everyone is different and has had unique experiences that can make visits to dentists uncomfortable or even scary. Even if you can’t pinpoint the cause of your fear, you can take steps to reduce and manage it.

How Fear of the Dentist Can Affect Your Health

Managing your fear of going to the dentist is essential for oral and overall health. Regular dental checkups, cleaning, and preventive care ensure you avoid dental health issues or treat any that arise in a timely manner.

By not going to the dentist, you increase your risk of certain oral health problems, including cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. Gum disease in particular is associated with other health conditions. These include heart disease, dementia, respiratory infections, and complications of diabetes.

Avoiding regular care increases the risk of needing more complicated and painful procedures later, which only adds to your discomfort and anxiety.

How to Get Over Dental Anxiety

You might never completely get over anxiety, but you can learn how to not be scared of the dentist to the extent that you avoid appointments. These steps can alleviate a lot of your worry and make you more comfortable when getting dental care.

Talk to Your Dentist About Your Worries

Remember that we’re here to help! Your dentist doesn’t want you to be scared. They want you to be as comfortable as possible. Mention your worries when you make your appointment. When you meet your hygienist and dentist, talk to them about your specific fears and concerns. They can explain everything that will happen and even adjust how they work with you.

Try Meditation and Mindfulness

Meditation and breathing exercises are mindfulness practices and great ways of reducing anxiety in general. Try some of these practices at home and find simple ones you can do while waiting for your appointment or even during the visit. Just focusing on and counting your breaths can reduce anxiety.

Ask for Sedation Dentistry

Ask for sedation options. Many patients find this is the most comfortable way to get dental care. Newtown Dentistry offers nitrous oxide. Talk to your dentist about the best option for you.

Take Good Care of Your Teeth and Gums

Although having healthy teeth and gums doesn’t mean you don’t need regular dental appointments, it can prevent the need for major dental procedures. These are the general guidelines recommended by the American Dental Association:

• Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes at a time.
• Floss daily.
• Eat a nutritious diet that limits sugar.

Of course, the ADA also recommends that you see your dentist regularly for prevention and treatment.

What If I’m Scared to Go to the Dentist Because of Bad Teeth?

Remember that your dental team is here to help, not to judge. If you haven’t taken good care of your teeth for a long time, we definitely want to see you. You might need procedures, but your dentist will explain all the necessary treatments and offer options for getting them done as comfortably as possible.

Schedule an appointment or give us a call to discuss your concerns and any special needs. Newtown Dentistry is dedicated to providing safe, effective, and fear-free dental care for patients of all ages.