What is the cause of severe anxiety or postponing the dental appointment?

For many people, going to the dentist is an unpleasant but manageable experience. For others, just the thought of going to the dentist causes severe anxiety, leading them to delay or avoid dental treatment. Unfortunately, this behavior can turn into a vicious cycle of tooth pain, health problems, worse anxiety, and more complicated and expensive dental procedures.

Dental anxiety and phobia

Fear of going to the dentist in Hamilton is very common. When dental fear is severe and leads people to delay or cancel treatment, they may meet the criteria for dental phobia or odontophobia, which is described as a type of phobia in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition. is included. There are various reasons and triggers for dental anxiety. For some, they have had a previous traumatic experience. For others, they are extremely afraid of needles. Because the source of fear can vary from patient to patient, it is important to identify your fears and discuss them with your dentist or other health care professional.

If you experience dental anxiety or phobia, here are some tips to ensure you maintain good oral health and receive comfortable dental care.

Prevention of dental pain

The best way to avoid complex dental procedures and pain is to visit the dentist regularly. Your dentist not only diagnoses problems and helps you prevent future problems, but also helps manage your oral health as part of your overall health. Your mouth is the gateway to your body. For example, people with type 2 diabetes are more likely to develop periodontitis, a type of bone and gum disease that can lead to tooth loss. Studies have shown that controlling diabetes can help control gum and bone health, and vice versa.

Pain management

Many people are afraid of the dentist because they are afraid of pain. There are different ways to manage this problem during and after dental treatment. Dentists usually use topical and local anesthesia. Local anesthesia is an anesthetic gel that can help ease the insertion of a thin needle to provide local anesthesia. Local anesthesia takes effect within minutes, usually lasting several hours, and numbs only the area your dentist needs to complete the procedure. Additionally, depending on the type of procedure, your dentist may recommend one or more of the following to minimize pain and swelling after your visit: ice, mouthwash, or over-the-counter pain relievers (such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen). or a prescription. Following these instructions is very important to your recovery.

Anxiety management

It is highly recommended that you explore a combination of the following options for reducing dental anxiety before considering medications. Relaxation exercises such as focused breathing and meditation can successfully lower your heart rate and relax you. Many people find it helpful to bring a distraction to the dental chair. Examples include headphones for music or podcasts and a stress-relief ball that can be squeezed with your hands to reduce tension during surgery. Additionally, some patients feel comfortable bringing a friend or family member to their appointment. Another approach is cognitive behavioral therapy (also used for other forms of phobias), which aims to change negative thoughts and actions. Talk to your dentist or other health care professional to find out which option is best for you.

Medicines to reduce dental anxiety

There are several ways your dentist can help reduce your anxiety with medications through different levels of sedation. Your dentist may prescribe an anti-anxiety medication such as diazepam (Valium) that you can take an hour before your scheduled dental visit. Your dentist may also recommend conscious sedation, such as nitrous oxide (or “laughing gas”), which can help calm nerves. You will still be in control of your body’s functions and this medicine will only be used during the procedure.

Finally, general anesthesia, which puts you into a deep sleep, may be recommended for more invasive jaw surgery, or for those with special needs or severe anxiety that prevents routine care. Some of these options may not be recommended depending on your medical health, so be sure to tell your dentist about your health conditions and medications.