Dental anxiety is a common affliction but experiencing it is very personal. Not everyone has the same reason for dreading, fearing, or avoiding the dentist. Understanding the source of dental anxiety is one key to successfully managing it, as is finding a Louisville dental office that is prepared to help you feel comfortable and safe every step of the way to good oral health.
The Dangers of Dental Avoidance
Getting a teeth cleaning and dental exam twice a year is the bare minimum for every person. Avoiding this basic healthcare can result in serious oral health problems:
- No matter how good your oral healthcare routine is at home, there are nooks and crannies your dental floss and toothbrush will miss. Your dental care team will see everything and address it.
- A buildup of plaque and tarter can lead to gum disease, cavities, and infections that will never go away on their own and could ultimately lead to tooth loss and severe health complications.
- You only get one set of adult teeth and to avoid tooth and mouth pain and ignoring oral health problems can lead to tooth extractions and deteriorating jaw health.
Reasons for Dental Anxiety
There are many possible reasons a person can experience dental anxiety. The level of concern may depend on the type of procedure being done, the dental office environment, or any of the following reasons:
- Bad dental experience in the past
- Fear of tooth or mouth pain
- Worry that existing discomfort will get worse
- Dislike of dental tools
- Fear of the sounds and smells of a dental office
- Concerns about cost of treatment
- Embarrassment about the state of your oral health
How Your Louisville Dentist Helps Patients Manage Dental Anxiety
Your Louisville dentist recognizes the reality of dental anxiety and addresses it head on for the patients who need support and convincing to get the oral health care they need. The measures we use in our office’s Dental Zen Experience are designed to put patients at ease before any procedure and they are adjusted to each person’s preferences and comfort level:
- Cozy blankets
- Heated neck pillow
- Warm mittens
- Hot tea or coffee
- Scented hot hand towels
Besides creature comforts or blissful distractions courtesy of television or devices, there is also sedation dentistry. Inhaled sedation helps patients manage pain and anxiety without negative aftereffects. This simple, safe method makes it possible for your dentist to get more dental work done in one dental visit and make it happen without stressing patients unnecessarily.
Get the Dental Care You Need Without Dental Anxiety
If you are anxious about any part of visiting the dentist, tell us your concerns. Our goal is to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful, fully functional smile, and we will do whatever it takes to ease dental anxiety for your comfort. Schedule a consultation with your Louisville dentist Dr. Kiran Gill at Natural Smiles to get the general dental care, restorative dentistry, or other procedures you need or want.