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There are various solutions available for addressing dental anxiety, and when left unaddressed, dental issues can worsen over time. We are here to empower patients dealing with dental anxiety to take proactive steps to treat their underlying dental conditions.
At New York Family Dental Arts, we offer solutions to combat dental anxiety. We firmly believe that fear should never stand in the way of your oral health. Please contact us at 212-628-3300 to obtain more information and schedule an appointment today.
Dental anxiety, also referred to as dental phobia, is a condition characterized by an overwhelming fear of dental visits. Individuals with dental anxiety recognize that their fear is irrational, yet they struggle to manage it. Some may only seek dental care when they are in extreme pain due to their apprehension. Common signs of dental anxiety include:
Increasing nervousness in the dentist's waiting room
Intense discomfort at the thought of dental instruments in the mouth during treatment
Physical reactions triggered by the idea of visiting the dentist
Difficulty sleeping the night before a dental appointment
In some cases, dental anxiety can become so severe that it hinders daily functioning, requiring psychiatric treatment.
"Causes of Dental Anxiety"
Dental anxiety can affect patients of all ages and backgrounds, and numerous factors contribute to this unease, including fears related to anesthesia, injections, pain, embarrassment, and feelings of helplessness. While these fears are legitimate, they do not need to dominate one's dental experience. Open and honest communication with the dentist is crucial in addressing these anxieties. At New York Family Dental Arts we emphasize the importance of communication to foster a successful dentist-patient relationship.
"Coping with Dental Anxiety"
Dealing with a dismissive dentist can exacerbate dental anxiety. Hence, the first step in managing dental anxiety is finding a dentist who understands and supports patients with anxiety. Dr. Vaiman and Dr. Kessler are understanding dentists that understand the root cause of dental anxiety and can help you overcome your fear. Patients should also inquire about recommended coping strategies and establish a signal to communicate when they need a break.
Mindfulness techniques, such as breathing exercises and body scans, can be beneficial during dental appointments. Some patients find comfort in using headphones or keeping their hands occupied as a distraction.
Moreover, patients should inform the dentist if they have a low pain tolerance, even with local anesthesia. There is no need to feel embarrassed about asking questions or sharing fears. This open dialogue is the key to creating a personalized plan to address dental anxiety effectively.
"Sedation & Dental Anxiety"
For patients with more severe dental anxiety, more intensive management options may be necessary, including:
Relative Analgesia: Also known as "laughing gas," this involves administering a combination of oxygen and nitrous oxide through a mask, inducing relaxation while keeping the patient awake. ( OUR MOST COMMON TREATMENT OPTION)
Anxiety Medication: Patients may receive prescribed anxiety medication in pill form, taken approximately one hour before their dental appointment. ( WE DO NOT DO THIS WE PREFER NITROUS OXIDE)
Conscious Sedation: Administered through IV, conscious sedation can lead to a light sleep state, often referred to as "twilight sedation." ( WE MAY BE OFFERING THIS SOON)
It's important to note that not all forms of sedation are suitable for every patient or dental procedure. Our qualified team collaborates closely with patients to determine the appropriate measures for a comfortable and anxiety-free experience.
