Going to the dentist can be a huge task for some people due to their inherent fears and apprehensions. Such feelings are fairly common and about 1 in 3 people report to be anxious about their dental visits. For some, this anxiety is so strong that they even delay or avoid getting dental treatment. This fear goes on like a bad cycle: avoiding the dentist leads to worse dental health, which makes them even more anxious about future visits. Over time, this cycle can get worse.3 Therefore, understanding these feelings and finding ways on how to manage them can make your dental visits less stressful and more productive.
Signs And Symptoms of Dental Anxiety
Dental anxiety can be caused by several factors. If you have had a negative experience during childhood, it can make you fearful of future dental visits. Seeing an anxious family member or friend, having a sensitive personality, or seeing frightening portrayals of dental treatment or dentists in the media can contribute to your fears. Fears associated with dental treatments including the fear of pain, blood, radiation exposure, choking or gagging, feeling out of control during the treatment and mistrust of the dentist can all lead to anxiety. Triggers in the dental setup such as the sight of a needle, the sound of a dental drill, or the smell of some dental materials used during treatment, may also add to these fears and anxiety.
So, how do you know if you have dental anxiety? Watch out for these symptoms:
Physical Signs:
- Shaking of hands
- Excessive sweating
- Breathing fast
- Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
- Restlessness, uneasiness or possible fainting (syncope)
Behavioural Signs:
- Feeling very scared or nervous about going to the dentist
- Worrying, crying or panicking about dental visits
- Feeling upset, frustrated or agitated
- Trouble focusing or remembering dental-related details
In severe cases of dental anxiety, called dental or odontophobia, the patient may avoid or cancel dental treatments. This is a very strong, irrational fear of going to the dentist.2,4
Understanding the causes and symptoms of dental anxiety is very important so that we can address the issue and work towards managing it in a better way to make dental visits less stressful.
Is Using Aligners Safe If You Have Anxiety?
Yes, using clear aligners is generally safe for individuals with dental anxiety. Clear aligners are a less invasive orthodontic option compared to traditional braces. They are made from smooth, transparent plastic and are custom fitted to your teeth, therefore you will experience less pain, discomfort and irritation which are the most common triggers of dental anxiety.
One of the major advantages of clear aligners is its comfort. Traditional braces can sometimes cause soft tissue irritation and pain due to their metal components. These discomforts can trigger your dental anxiety, especially when the braces are first applied. In contrast, clear aligners are designed to fit snugly and gently over your teeth, causing less discomfort. Initial pain is minimal, and any discomfort typically fades quickly as you adjust to wearing them.6
Aligner prices in India range between ₹50,000 and ₹2,50,000, depending on how complex your treatment is.7 Despite the cost, many find it is more comfortable and convenient than conventional braces, so it is worth investing in for a better experience if you need teeth straightening but are anxious about your orthodontic treatment.
Coping Strategies to Overcome Dental Anxiety
If you experience dental anxiety, here are some simple ways to manage it and maintain good oral health:
- Prevention: The best way to avoid dental anxiety is to prevent major dental issues from arising. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are important to prevent serious dental problems and consequent pain. Your dentist can not only spot dental problems early but also keep your overall health in check, as oral health can reflect conditions like diabetes.2
- Preparation for the Visit: Before your appointment, ask your dentist what to expect during the procedure so you can mentally prepare yourself.1 Arrive early to relax, and bring a friend or family member for support if needed.21 If you have experienced any past dental trauma, let your dentist know. A supportive and understanding approach can help you feel safer and more comfortable.8
- Clear Communication: Express your worries and concerns to your dentist. Ask your dentist to explain each step of the procedure, and use a stop signal, like raising your hand, if you want them to pause when you have a very bad pain.
- Use of Distraction Techniques: Bring music or watch a movie during your visit. You can also use a ‘stop signal’ if you need a break, and practice deep breathing to help you stay relaxed.6
- Pain Management: Dentists use local anaesthesia to numb the treatment area, reducing pain during procedures. After the procedure, they will advise you on using ice and pain-relief medications to manage discomfort. Convey your concerns about pain to your dentist so that they can prescribe medication accordingly and ensure to follow all aftercare instructions.2
- Medications for Anxiety: Your dentist might suggest anti-anxiety medications like diazepam before your visit or use nitrous oxide (laughing gas) during the procedure. For more invasive procedures, general anaesthesia may be used, but discuss your health conditions with your dentist first.2
Conclusion
Managing your dental anxiety helps you maintain good oral health and have a comfortable experience during your dental visits. By clearly communicating with your dentist about your fears and knowing the different ways to manage your anxiety, you can limit your worries and make every dental appointment less stressful.
