Overcoming Dental Anxiety
We specialize in helping anxious patients.
Dr. Snyder understands that dental anxiety or phobia can keep some individuals from seeing the dentist regularly. If their dental phobia is severe enough, they may even put off seeking help when they have a severely decayed tooth or are suffering from a painful toothache or injury.
We don’t want dental fear to prevent anyone from taking care of their oral health. Our dental care team has invested a great deal of time and energy into finding ways to help our patients cope with dental anxiety and overcome their fears. When you visit our office for any procedure, we take the time to put you at ease and make your dental care a relaxing, stress-free experience.
Compassionate Dental Care You Can Trust
At Brian H. Snyder, DDS, we provide gentle, compassionate care with honesty and integrity. Your comfort and well-being are our top priorities. Schedule your appointment today and experience dental care you can truly trust.
What is Dental Anxiety?
Dental anxiety is fear or apprehension caused by the thought of dental procedures or going to the dentist. It is not always about fear of pain. It may be associated with a past unpleasant dental experience, a fear of the unknown, or temporary loss of control. If you have dental anxiety, you are likely to feel nervousness or a sense of unease when you think about going to the dentist. It is believed that between 10 and 20% of the population has some form of dental anxiety.
In its most severe form, anxiety becomes a dental phobia, which is more intense and can be debilitating. Dental phobia leads to an irrational fear that is incredibly powerful, difficult to overcome, and may lead to an individual ignoring the need for care even when it is obvious.
Signs and Symptoms of Dental Anxiety
- Sweating
- Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
- Fainting or low blood pressure
- Distress or signs of panic
- Repeated missed dental appointments
- Nausea or dizziness
- Chills
- Shortness of breath
- Insomnia before a dentist’s appointment
- Crying or having a panic attack at the thought of seeing a dentist
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How Dental Anxiety Can Affect Your Oral Health
Putting off dental visits can let small problems turn into bigger ones, sometimes leading to emergencies or complex, expensive treatments. It can also make dental anxiety worse, creating a “vicious cycle” that can be difficult to break. As dental problems worsen, embarrassment about your dental health may make you hesitant to seek care.
Most dental issues are linked to daily habits and can be avoided. When you skip check-ups, you’re not only risking tougher treatments down the line, but you’re also missing tips that could help you keep your mouth healthier every day.
How Dr. Snyder Helps Patients Overcome Dental Anxiety
Dr. Snyder always has his patients’ best interests at heart. He understands that dental anxiety and dental phobia are very real issues that can be difficult to overcome. When a patient schedules an appointment for the first time and lets us know they have dental anxiety, our dental care team takes the time to make them comfortable, reassure them, and address their concerns. We also offer amenities that put you at ease and relax your mind, making treatment a less intimidating experience.
- Dr. Snyder explains each procedure in detail and answers your questions before beginning any dental procedure, taking the time to put you at ease.
- Our spa-like atmosphere and soothing surroundings are relaxing, and even anxious patients enjoy the serene environment.
- Blankets are provided for warmth and a safe, “cocooned” feeling.
- We encourage you to bring your own music to listen to during procedures, or we provide music to relax you.
- Oral anxiety medication may be offered to ease your tension an hour prior to treatment to take the edge off of your anxiety.
- Nitrous oxide or sedation can be administered to relax you and put you at ease. These can also make you drowsy, drifting in and out of semi-consciousness.
Schedule Your Anxiety-Friendly Consultation Today!
Call our office at Brian H. Snyder, D.D.S. Phone Number 954-753-4101 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Snyder. Mention that you have dental anxiety, and we will arrange extra time for Dr. Snyder to work with you to alleviate your fears and ensure you understand every step of any needed treatment.
