If you’re scared of going to the dentist, you’re not alone. Many people, no matter their age, feel nervous about dental visits. Some worry about loud sounds, pain, or the treatment itself. At Coastal General Dentistry, we’re here to help ease fears of the dentist in our Virginia Beach, VA, office.
Avoiding the dentist for years because of fear can lead to more dental issues. A small issue can get worse if it’s not treated. We understand anxiety is a common dental concern. That’s why we work hard to make sure your visit is calm and comfortable. Talking with our dentists can also help ease the fear of the unknown.
Treating Dental Anxiety in Virginia Beach, VA
Some patients fear the office, dental tools, or even the dentist. Common fears include:
- Loud noises
- Needles
- Pain
- Gagging
We know some patients may have had bad experiences at the dentist before. Our goal is to replace those with positive, comfortable visits. Dr. Cappy Sinclair, Dr. Mark Reichley, and our team are here to make sure you feel at ease.
Pain-Free Dental Care with Sedation
Sedation is a great way to help patients feel no pain or discomfort during treatment. We may suggest sedation even for regular cleanings if anxiety is severe. Sedation options include:
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas): This is mixed with oxygen to help you feel calm and relaxed. Some people even feel happy or giggly.
- Oral-conscious sedation: You take medicine before your treatment. You stay awake but don’t feel pain.
- IV sedation: Medicine is given through an IV, which helps you deeply relax. This often works with other sedation types.
When sedated, patients aren’t fully awake and don’t feel pain. They may not even be aware of what’s going on. General anesthesia is similar, but patients are completely unconscious and unaware during treatment.
Accommodations for Dental Anxiety
If you’re nervous, contact us before your visit. We can make special arrangements to meet your needs. Here are some ways to help ease anxiety during your visit:
- Talk to us beforehand: We’ll help manage your anxiety and make sure you’re comfortable.
- Listen to music: Bring your phone and headphones to listen to your favorite music.
- Use noise-canceling headphones: If you don’t want to hear anything during treatment, you can bring headphones.
- Bring a stress ball or calming object: Keeping your hands busy with a stress ball or fidget toy can help distract you.
- Take breaks: We can pause treatment when needed. Before we begin, we can agree on a signal to stop.
- Bring someone with you: A friend or family member can wait with you before your appointment.
You can also schedule a visit to tour our office and meet the team. Getting familiar with the office ahead of time can help you feel more at ease.
Dental Anxiety FAQs
Here are some common questions about dental anxiety and fear:
What are the signs of dental anxiety?
You might have dental anxiety if you:
- Can’t sleep the night before a dental visit
- Panic or have trouble breathing in the dental chair
- Notice your heart races at the dentist
- Avoid the dentist because of fear
How can I go to the dentist if I have dental anxiety?
Talking with your dentist can make it easier to visit the office if you’re anxious. Let them know what makes you nervous, and they’ll help you manage your fear.
We don’t judge patients who avoid the dentist. Our goal is to make sure you get the care you need in a comfortable environment.
Can medication help with dental anxiety?
Yes, dentists can prescribe medication if you have dental anxiety. Some sedation methods use anti-anxiety medicine to help you feel calm during treatment.
How can I calm my anxiety before I visit the dentist?
Here are some ways to feel calmer before your appointment:
- Avoid caffeine and sugar
- Practice breathing exercises
- Listen to a guided meditation
When you arrive, feel free to talk with your dentist. They’ll listen to your concerns and help you feel relaxed during your visit.
How does dental anxiety impact oral health?
Many people with dental anxiety avoid regular dental visits. However, seeing the dentist every six months is important for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. These visits help catch and treat problems early.
If you avoid the dentist, small problems can get worse over time. This might lead to more complex and costly treatments.
Why is dental anxiety common?
Dental anxiety is common because people often think dental visits will be painful. But modern dentistry offers pain-free care. Dentists can numb the mouth, use sedation, and apply advanced tools for painless treatment. The dentist, dental assistants, and staff all work together to make sure you have a positive and pain-free experience.
Schedule a Dental Appointment
Do you avoid the dentist because of fear? Call Coastal General Dentistry at 757-216-9914 or schedule an appointment online. We’re here to help you manage your dental anxiety in our Virginia Beach, VA office.
If you have any questions about your visit, let us know, and we’ll work to make you feel more comfortable.