Do you avoid visits to your dentist because of dental anxiety? Fear of the dentist often prevents patients from seeking the dental health care they need to maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. If you experience dental anxiety, it is important to know that you are not alone. A lot of people have a fear of visiting their dentist because of fears and phobias surrounding dental visits. At Claremont Dental Institute, we cater to our patients who feel anxious about visiting the dentist.
Our dental care team creates a no-pressure environment where we keep our patients well informed and take the time to get to know everyone on a personal basis. Your safety, comfort, and overall well-being are the core values of our dental practice.
We combine dental technology, sedation dentistry, and patient education to help our patients stay calm and comfortable during their dental procedures. This is because we know that avoiding routine dental checkups and cleanings can lead to more complex oral health issues.
It is important to visit the dentist at least two times a year for a regular exam to allow for early intervention of developing issues. Patients who visit the dentist more frequently experience less complex dental concerns and require less costly dental work.
Having a healthy, beautiful smile is important for enjoying your best life. Let the dental care team at Claremont Dental Institute show you how holistic, caring dentistry can make a difference in your life.
Drill Free Dental Fillings & Laser Therapy
Advancements in dental technology have made routine dental procedures less invasive and practically pain-free. Claremont Dental Institute uses the Solea laser for drill-free dentistry. Many patients find the sound of the dental drill anxiety-inducing. Solea eliminates the dental drill and greatly reduces the need for local anesthetic, helping patients who fear needles reduce their stress levels.
Laser dentistry reduces swelling, promotes natural healing, and is practically pain-free. Patients enjoy more precise results with shorter to no downtimes. Our dentists can use laser therapy for drill-free dental fillings, gum contouring, and to treat tooth decay and gum disease.
Sedation Dentistry & Overcoming Dental Anxiety
We provide sedation dentistry for our patient’s optimal comfort. Sedation dentistry is safe and effective while allowing you to remain totally relaxed. Your safety is our most important priority. We closely observe every patient that is under dental sedation.
Patients who choose sedation dentistry will participate in a full medical history review, oral exam, and consultation with their dentist before treatment. The type of dental sedation chosen for you will depend on these factors, as well as the necessary procedures and your preferences.
Patient Review
Dental Anxiety FAQs
Dental anxiety is a common problem, but rest assured that your doctor can help you relax and feel at ease. Here are some of the questions our patients ask most often about dental anxiety.
How can I calm my anxiety before going to the dentist?
The best way to calm anxiety before going to the dentist is to communicate with your dentist about how you feel. They can help to make your experience more comfortable. Patients may also bring a friend or family member to their appointment to help calm nerves. Focusing on your breathing is another great way to calm anxiety.
Here are some tips on how you can overcome your anxious feelings before visiting your dentist:
- Acknowledge that your anxiety is normal. Fear of the dentist is common, and being nervous about a visit isn’t a sign of weakness. In fact, it shows that you care about your dental health and want to do what’s best for yourself.
- Educate yourself and get a clear understanding of what will happen during and after your dental procedure. Many people feel anxious about going to the dentist because they don’t understand what the dentist does or why it is so important. If you know what to expect, this will help reduce your anxiety level.
- Avoid drinking alcohol or taking any medication that can make anxiety worse. Instead, try deep breathing exercises or meditation. Take a deep breath and relax. You can also listen to relaxing music or drink some herbal tea before your appointment.
What causes dental anxiety?
Dental anxiety can develop for many reasons, including fear of pain, past traumatic dental visits, or hearing about negative experiences from others. Some people also feel anxious because of the sounds and smells associated with dental offices. Others may have anxiety triggered by feeling out of control or confined in the dental chair. Identifying the cause helps us tailor care to reduce anxiety and improve comfort.
What are the symptoms of dental anxiety?
Symptoms can include physical reactions such as sweating, rapid heartbeat, or difficulty sleeping before a dental appointment. Emotional symptoms include fear, nervousness, or panic at the thought of dental care. Some patients may avoid scheduling or keeping appointments altogether.
Can dental anxiety affect oral health?
Yes, dental anxiety often leads patients to delay or skip dental visits, allowing small problems to worsen over time. This can result in more serious issues like cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. When oral health declines, treatment often becomes more complex and costly.
Can dental anxiety start at any age?
Yes, dental anxiety can develop at any age, though it often begins in childhood due to early negative experiences. Adults who had painful or stressful dental visits as children may carry that fear into adulthood. Conversely, some adults develop anxiety later in life after a difficult procedure.
Can dental anxiety be completely cured?
While dental anxiety may not disappear overnight, it can be greatly reduced with consistent, positive dental experiences. Each comfortable visit helps replace fear with trust and familiarity. Over time, many patients find they can attend appointments with little or no anxiety. The key is working with a caring dental team that supports you throughout your journey.
Request a Personalized Consultation Today
Our dentists practice Holistic Dentistry and consider all aspects of your well-being. This means that they look at the whole person, not just teeth. They consider all aspects of your well-being and give you the best care possible to help you maintain optimal dental health. We help patients learn to appreciate their routine dental exams and show them how dentistry can be different. To request a dental exam or your next visit, contact our dentist office at (909) 277-6919 or request a consultation online.