Understanding Dental Anxiety and How to Overcome It

Feeling nervous about going to the dentist is very common. Dental anxiety can make it difficult to get the care you need, but there are ways to manage it so you can keep your oral health on track.

What Causes Dental Anxiety?

• Fear of pain or discomfort during treatment (Armfield & Heaton, 2013).
• Past negative dental experiences (Kvale et al., 2004).
• Feelings of loss of control or embarrassment (Gordon et al., 2013).
• Sensory triggers like the sounds of dental tools or the smell of the clinic (Carter et al., 2012).

Ways to Overcome Dental Anxiety

• Communicate openly with your dentist about your fears so they can tailor care to your comfort.
• Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or guided imagery to calm nerves.
• Bring a trusted friend or family member along for support.
• Consider sedation options, from mild nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”) to more advanced sedation, discussed with your dentist.
• Regular, gentle dental visits can help reduce fear over time by building positive experiences (Kvale et al., 2004).

Remember, dentists want to help you feel safe and comfortable — don’t hesitate to ask for what you need.

References

• Armfield, J. M., & Heaton, L. J. (2013). Management of fear and anxiety in the dental clinic: a review. Australian Dental Journal, 58(4), 390-407.
• Kvale, G., et al. (2004). Dental anxiety in adults: a meta-analysis of behavioural interventions. Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology, 32(5), 320-333.
• Gordon, D., et al. (2013). Dental anxiety and behavioural management problems in children. Advances in Dentistry, 2013, 1-6.
• Carter, A., et al. (2012). The impact of dental fear on oral health and quality of life: a systematic review. Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology, 40(5), 323-332.