Dental Anxiety and Fear
Our Dental Team Eases Your Fear and Anxiety When It’s Time for Dental Treatments
It is incredibly common for patients to experience fear and anxiety leading up to dental appointments. For many people, visions of a drill-wielding dentist in a white lab coat come to mind. However—thanks to advancements in dental technology—this is an unrealistic fear. Today’s dentistry utilizes painless laser beams and other techniques that are a far cry from what many people envision. Dr. Anup Naik and his Dallas dental team strive to ensure each and every patient who walks through our doors is comfortable, relaxed, and educated about the services they are going to receive. We do our best to help people understand that there is nothing to be anxious or afraid of, regardless of whether you are in for regular teeth cleaning, teeth whitening, or porcelain veneers.
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The Cosmetic and Family Dentistry of Las Colinas Difference
We strive to offer the highest quality of services to our patients, which includes addressing dental anxiety and fear concerns. A perfectionist and people person, Dr. Naik is committed to going above and beyond for his patients, regardless of what oral health service they need. Over the years Dr. Naik has worked hard to build his practice based on the best technology and techniques in dentistry. Our entire Las Colinas team is dedicated to building and maintaining relationships with our patients, whether we only see them annually for regular cleanings or if they are in for a comfort dentistry service, such as dental fear and anxiety.
Common Dental Fears
Many people—both teenagers and adults—experience dental anxiety or uneasiness before or during their dental appointments. Some of the most common dental fears that we deal with include:
Embarrassment about the state of the teeth, mouth, or gums
Fear of gagging during a cleaning
Fear of injections (including sedation)
Anxiety surrounding not being able to control the situation
Fear of pain
Anxiety or fear about becoming numb when sedated
Some studies indicate that upwards of 75% of people have at least some fear of dental visits. Unfortunately, this often results in people avoiding the dentist and, in turn, negating their oral health care. We understand that dental anxiety and fear are real and we are here to answer any questions you may have and do everything we can to make you feel comfortable. Your oral health is incredibly important to us, which is why we are committed to working with our patients when it comes to dental fear and anxiety.
How to Overcome Dental Fear and Anxiety
Here are a few tips to help you overcome your dental anxiety and fear:
- Talk With Your Dentist or Dental Hygienist About Your Anxiety – In doing so, they will be able to explain what the procedure entails so that you know what to expect. Dr. Naik and our dental hygienists are here to make your experience as comfortable as possible.
- Bring Headphones and a Smartphone With Music on It – One of the most effective ways to overcome dental fear and anxiety is to listen to calming music during your appointment. Music will act as a relaxant and will also keep you from hearing any anxiety-inducing noises.
- Inquire About Anti-Anxiety Medicine – For some, taking anti-anxiety medication before your appointment will help reduce anxiety during the exam or procedure.
- Use a Throat Spray – If you are concerned about gagging during the cleaning, try using a throat spray to control the gag reflex before your appointment.
- Consider Sedation – If you are still experiencing feelings of anxiety and fear, you may want to ask about sedation. Several different types of sedation may prove to be beneficial.
Get Your Best Smile With Us
For more information on dental anxiety and fear, please do not hesitate to contact Cosmetic and Family Dentistry of Las Colinas today. We'll listen to your concerns and address your questions carefully to put your mind at ease. We can't wait to see you with a healthier, more confident smile.
