Tuesday, September 25, 2018

Tips for Managing Dental Anxiety


A dentist with offices throughout Connecticut and Massachusetts, Julia Faigel, DMD, has overseen operations for Dr. Dental since 2004. Prior to becoming a dentist, Dr. Julia Faigel was a social worker, and she draws on her previous training to comfort anxious patients

By some estimates, nearly one in ten adults have avoided seeing a dentist due to fear. Other studies show this number to be one in five. Below are some strategies for coping with this common fear.

Be Open - Talking to dentist about any fears or concerns can help ease the uncertainty that drives dental anxiety. Most dentists are well-aware of this problem, and will do their best to make patients feel comfortable.

Bring a Friend - Some patients find comfort by asking a friend or family member to accompany them to their dental appointment. This is also helpful if the patient will be undergoing anesthesia and may need support to get home.

Take Breaks - Facing a fear is emotionally taxing and draining. Before starting any procedures, patients should decide on a nonverbal signal they will give the dentist if they need a break from the chair.

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