Dental Anxiety Management
The overwhelming fear of dental appointments can be a common cause of anxiety. Many people visualize a drill-wielding man in a white coat just waiting to cause pain and remove teeth. The reality, however, is very different. The comfort, relaxation and happiness of the patient are embedded deep at the heart of Spring Creek Dental.
The staff at our Fort Collins dental practice will do whatever they can to reduce anxiety, allay fears and provide painless, quick treatments. We’re not just another Fort Collins dentist. For the dentists and hygienists at Spring Creek Dental it is about gentle dentistry and quality of care.
How Can One Overcome Dental Anxiety?
Dental anxiety and fear can become completely overwhelming. It is estimated that as many as 35 million people do not visit the dental office at all because they are too afraid. Receiving regular dental checkups and cleanings is incredibly important. Having regular routine checkups is the easiest way to maintain excellent oral hygiene and reduce the need for more complex treatments.
Tips to Help Reduce Dental Fear and Anxiety:
Talk to your Spring Creek Dental dentist and hygienist – Though it can be hard to talk about irrational fears with a stranger, the dentists and hygienists at Spring Creek Dental can take extra precautions during visits if fears and anxiety are communicated.
Bring a portable music player – Music acts as a relaxant and also drowns out any fear-producing noises. Listening to calming music throughout your appointment at Spring Creek Dental will help to reduce anxiety.
Agree on a signal – Many people are afraid that the dentist will not know they are in significant pain during the appointment and will carry on the procedure regardless. The best way to solve this problem is to agree on a “stop” hand signal with the dentist. Both parties can easily understand signals like raising the hand or tapping on the chair.
Spray your throat – Throat sprays (for example, Vicks® Chloraseptic® Throat Spray) can actually control the gag reflex. Two or three sprays will usually keep the reflex under control for about an hour.
Bring a mirror – Not being able to see what is happening can increase anxiety and make the imagination run wild. Watching the procedure can help keep reality at the forefront of the mind.
Sedation – If there is no other way to cope, sedation offers an excellent option for many people. There are several types of sedation, but the general premise behind them is the same: the patient regains their faculties after treatment is complete.
Your Fort Collins Gentle Dentists
If you have questions or concerns about how Spring Creek Dental can help you overcome anxiety and fear, please contact us at (970) 482-8883.
We'd love to have you as a new patient
Spring Creek Dental can help you begin your journey to a healthy, beautiful smile. The genuine care and comfort of our patients is our highest priority!
Hours
Monday–Thursday:
8am to 5pm
Friday:
8am to 2pm
