How Dental Experts in Brookhaven Handle Dental Fear in Patients?

Dental fear is quite a common concern for many people. Many patients fear and almost expect a dental visit to be unbearably painful. This reaches such extremes that even those who desperately need dental attention choose to avoid dentists completely. 

Naturally, such fear is unjustified. Dentists practice tirelessly to achieve mastery over their skillset. They work in a manner that is as pain-free as possible. And when pain is unavoidable, other supplements are used. According to an expert at a Brookhaven, GA dental practice, dental fear is best-approached head-on with direct alleviation methods. This involves discussing and implementing various strategies to help manage fears. Here’s what they involve…

Encourage Ear Plugs / Headphone Use

For many patients, the sounds associated with dental procedures – such as drilling or suction – can heighten anxiety. One effective way dental experts help alleviate this is by encouraging patients to use earplugs or listen to music through headphones during their appointments. The ability to tune out the unsettling sounds of dental equipment can significantly reduce stress and create a more relaxing experience.

Agree Upon a Signal

Open communication between the patient and the dentist is vital to managing dental fear. Many dentists in Brookhaven encourage patients to agree upon a hand signal before starting the procedure. This signal serves as a non-verbal cue that allows the patient to indicate when they need to take a break or if they are feeling discomfort. Having a signal in place gives patients a sense of control over the situation, which can significantly ease anxiety. 

Spray The Throat to Control Gag Reflex

A common source of discomfort and fear during dental procedures is the gag reflex. Some patients have a sensitive gag reflex, which can make dental work particularly uncomfortable. Dental experts may use a throat spray to numb the area, controlling the gag reflex and preventing discomfort. By controlling the gag reflex, patients can relax and focus on getting through the procedure without worrying about gagging or choking. 

Consider Sedation

In cases where dental fear is particularly severe, and chances of pain are high, dentists recommend sedation. Sedation dentistry offers several options, from mild sedation (such as laughing gas) to deeper sedation techniques like intravenous (IV) sedation. This can make the entire experience far more manageable for patients who struggle with high levels of anxiety. Sedation helps patients relax while still remaining conscious during the procedure. Depending on the type of sedation used, patients may feel completely at ease and even forget parts of the procedure afterward. 

Honest and Open Conversation

Perhaps one of the most important strategies employed by dental experts is focusing on honest and open communication. Before any procedure, dentists will discuss the process in detail, addressing any concerns or fears the patient may have. Being open about what to expect can significantly reduce fear, as many patients find that their anxiety stems from a fear of the unknown. This trust is essential for alleviating anxiety and creating a positive dental experience. 

Dental fear is at its worst when a major dental concern is ignored purely due to fear. This makes addressing any concerns of fear or anxiety imperative for effective dental assistance. As such, these strategies are recommended by expert dentists to foster a safe and comfortable environment. Firstly, it encourages more people to get treatment for their dental concerns. Secondly, these strategies also help dentists treat a concern more effectively. 

So, remember, if you’re feeling uneasy at the thought of an upcoming dental visit, you’re not alone! Simply consider these strategies and go with the one that you feel most comfortable with. An expert dentist will handle the rest!