SPRING 2024��������
ear is a common problem in
dental patients that can impact
their care. In fact, about one in every
seven patients is so anxious that dental
practitioners must take extra care.
Dental fears can cause patients to delay
or even forgo necessary treatment.
Dentists, hygienists, and other dental
staff can make a diff erence. When the
dental team takes time to understand
what dental anxiety is, what causes it,
and how to help patients, then patients
can get the care they deserve.
WHAT IS DENTAL ANXIETY?
Dental anxiety is a fear of a dental
procedure that outweighs the actual
risks. Someone might be afraid of
specifi c procedures at the dentist’s
offi ce or something in particular. Also
known as dental fear, this anxiety
exists on a spectrum.
Some patients with dental anxiety may
feel a racing heartbeat when in their
dentist’s chair but otherwise feel ok.
Other patients may feel unable to get
through a cleaning. Some even avoid
dental work altogether. Severe cases are
sometimes known as “dentophobia.”
Some patients with dental anxiety
are afraid of specifi c parts of the
experience, including:
•
Anesthesia
•
Needles
•
Pain or discomfort
•
Th e dentist or hygienist
Unpleasant sensations can worsen
these fears, such as loud noises, bright
lights, and unique smells. But what
makes people so afraid of dentists?
What Causes Dental Anxiety?
Th ere’s no singular cause for dental
fear and anxiety. However, some
experiences and factors can cause
someone to be more likely to
experience dental anxiety.
First and foremost, having a negative
experience with dentistry can cause
someone to fear all dentists. Patients
might have had a failed treatment,
extreme pain, or other traumatizing
experience. Even if your practice wasn’t
responsible for that, the patient could
be anxious that you’ll cause the same
stress.
Some patients are afraid to experience
shame or judgment at a dental offi ce.
People have dental problems for all
kinds of reasons. Th ey may have
missed years of cleanings due to
anxiety, cost, or other issues. Some
may have a genetic predisposition
to dental problems, or they may be
getting sober from an addiction that
damaged their teeth.
All of these issues may cause the
patient to feel ashamed of their smile.
Th ey worry that a dentist or hygienist
will make them feel worse about
themselves.
Finally, popular media and societal
expectations can infl uence people’s
feelings about going to the dentist.
Often, movies, shows, and more
portray dental treatments as extremely
painful.
Strategies for Reducing Dental
Anxiety
Dentists, hygienists, and other staff
can help patients cope with their
dental anxiety. You can implement
some of these strategies for every
patient. You might use diff erent coping
mechanisms only for patients who
show signs of anxiety, such as:
•
Shallow, quick breathing
•
Shaking
•
Excessive sweating
•
Wincing when touched
•
A worried expression
Th ese strategies can put your patients
at ease and lead to better care.
Show Empathy and Compassion
Perhaps the best thing that dental
professionals can do for anxious
patients is to show empathy. When
you show your patients that you
understand their fears, they may trust
you to care for them. You can try
phrases like:
•
“I know this might feel scary. I’m
going to take good care of you.”
•
“Th ere’s no need to feel
embarrassed. I’m here to help, not
judge.”
•
“Please let me know if anything
feels overwhelming. I’m here to
help.”
Empathetic communication can be
essential for patients who feel ashamed
or embarrassed about their oral health.
Communicate Everything
Many patients feel better when they
know what to expect. You can ease
their fear by telling your patient what
you will do before you do it. Some
practitioners use the “tell, show, do”
method:
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By Staff