When it comes to visiting the dentist, many people across all age ranges experience some degree of fear or nervousness. Indeed, this common affliction, sometimes called dentophobia, is estimated to impact nearly a third of all Americans. In some cases, the fear associated with dentophobia impacts people so strongly that they choose to avoid seeking dental care altogether, which can have major consequences for their overall oral and even general health. Fortunately, whether your dental anxieties are minor or severe, there are a variety of potential solutions that can help make the prospect of visiting the dentist less stressful!
Our experienced team of Seattle dentists believes that everyone deserves access to high-quality dental care that is as relaxing and comfortable as possible. The following tips represent some of the most common strategies for alleviating the stress associated with dental visits:
Choose The Right Dentist For You
One of the first steps in getting rid of dental anxiety is finding a dentist with whom you feel comfortable and confident. Everyone here at Kois Dentistry, from our office staff to our team of dental professionals, is committed to providing compassionate care and exceptional results. We will work with you every step of the way to ensure that your treatment is as smooth and worry-free as possible.
Be Upfront About Your Concerns
Whether your dental anxiety is minor or severe, we want to know about it! If you communicate your concerns with our team, we can potentially help mitigate them by talking you through what to expect during treatment, adapting our approach, or building accommodations into your care plan.
Consider Bringing Along A Loved One For Support
For added emotional support during your appointment, consider bringing along a loved one, such as a friend, family member, or partner. Bringing someone with you can help reduce the burden of stress, and their familiar presence can often provide a soothing effect during your dental visit.
Ask About Sedation Dentistry Options
For those who suffer from extreme dental fear, sedation dentistry techniques can provide you with an opportunity to receive the care you need in a relaxed, dream-like state. Our team at Kois Dentistry has been trained and certified to provide oral conscious sedation using orally administered medication or nitrous oxide sedation (laughing gas). These techniques allow patients to remain conscious and responsive while alleviating any fear or anxiety they may feel. In cases where oral conscious sedation proves insufficient, Dr. Kois may recommend that you undergo IV sedation. Dr. Kois will administer a sedative intravenously, and while patients will remain responsive, they should experience little to no sensation during treatment and typically will not remember anything after the sedation wears off. Our hope is that all patients feel empowered to receive the quality dental care they deserve without the added burdens of stress and anxiety.
Dentophobia may be a common affliction, but it should never prevent you from maintaining good oral health! If you have more questions about overcoming dental fear, or if you would like to learn more about how we can help you manage dental anxiety during treatment, please contact Kois Dentistry today!