Are you avoiding the dentist because of past trauma, fear of the setting, or anxiety? If you’ve been staying away from the dentist because you’re scared or anxious, you’re not alone. Many people skip dental visits because of fear, which is a big reason why routine check-ups, crucial for good oral health, get put off.
Unfortunately, small dental issues can quickly turn into bigger, painful problems if left untreated. This can lead to needing more costly and complex treatments. You can trust us at Valley Dental Health because we treat you like family.
At Valley Dental Health in Hunt Valley, Dr. Roham Rafat and Dr. Ashley Izadi are here to help you feel relaxed and confident during your dental visits. Our staff is skilled in working with patients who feel anxious about dental care. We’ll take the time to talk with you about any worries you have and discuss your treatment options.
Sometimes, just explaining a dental procedure and talking about anesthesia choices can help ease your anxiety. Knowing what to expect can make a big difference in how comfortable you feel.
Dental anxiety, or fear of the dentist, is a common reason for poor oral health in many adults. At Valley Dental Health, we work closely with patients who are anxious to understand their fears. Whether it’s due to a past bad experience, pain, or being in a medical setting, we help address these issues and make you feel more at ease.
For more complex procedures, Dr. Rafat or Dr. Izadi might suggest sedation options. Sedation can help you stay calm and relaxed during your treatment. You’ll be awake but won’t remember much of the procedure afterward.
We offer different types of sedation, including nitrous oxide, IV sedation, and oral sedation. Nitrous oxide is popular because it doesn’t require an injection, which can be a common fear. It helps you stay awake but pain-free during the procedure. This type of sedation wears off quickly, so you can drive yourself home after your appointment.
Sedation Dentistry In Hunt Valley
Dental sedation can help you stay calm and relaxed during your procedure, while still being awake and able to respond to us. We offer different types of sedation, including IV sedation for those who want to be deeply relaxed or “asleep” during treatment. Dr. Rafat is one of the few dentists in the Baltimore area trained and certified to give IV sedation.
Before choosing the best sedation for you, we’ll review your medical history and discuss your concerns and fears. Our goal is to help you maintain or improve your smile without causing you stress or anxiety.
Good dental health not only enhances your smile but also supports your overall health and well-being. Dental sedation options include:
- Oral Sedation: This comes in pill form and helps you stay relaxed and in control during your procedure. You’ll be awake but feel calm and comfortable.
- Nitrous Oxide: Known as laughing gas, this is given through a mask and makes you feel relaxed and calm. The effects disappear quickly once you stop breathing it in.
- IV Sedation: This involves giving medication directly into your bloodstream for immediate relaxation. The effects wear off quickly after we remove the IV, with fewer side effects compared to oral sedation.
Fear Of The Dentist FAQs
How Do You Get Over The Fear Of Going To The Dentist?
Many people have a fear of the dentist, and it’s common. Talking to your dentist can help ease this fear, as they can offer solutions to make your visit more comfortable. Try breathing slowly, listening to music, or using hand signals if you feel uneasy.
What Are Some Symptoms Of Dental Anxiety?
Some signs of dental anxiety include:
- Feeling nervous or worried before a dental appointment
- Trouble sleeping the night before a dental visit
- Increased heart rate or sweating while at the dentist’s office
- Feeling physical discomfort or pain when thinking about going to the dentist
- Avoiding or delaying dental appointments due to fear
- Feeling dizzy or lightheaded while at the dentist
- Having a sense of dread or panic when sitting in the dental chair
- Having difficulty sitting still or feeling restless during a dental procedure
- Feeling nauseous or a funny feeling in your stomach before or during a dental visit
- Having a strong urge to leave or escape the dentist’s office
Does Anxiety Affect Your Mouth?
Yes, anxiety can impact your mouth and oral health in several ways. People with anxiety might have dry mouth, grind their teeth, get canker sores, or even face gum disease.
Dry mouth, or xerostomia, happens when anxiety reduces the amount of saliva in your mouth. This can lead to bad breath, tooth decay, and other oral health problems.
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is another common issue linked to anxiety. It can wear down your teeth, make them sensitive, and cause jaw pain. Stress or anxiety can also trigger canker sores, painful ulcers inside the mouth.
Anxiety can also weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off gum disease and other infections. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, therapy, or medication can keep your oral health in good shape. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are also important to prevent and address problems related to anxiety.