Say goodbye to dental anxiety

Millions of people across Australia experience dental anxiety. It’s a common reason for people to avoid the dentist, which can lead to more serious problems in the future. Thankfully, there are ways to reduce the effects of dental anxiety, so you can make an appointment to get the dental care you need. 

At The Practice dental clinic in West End, Brisbane, we have years of experience helping patients overcome dental anxiety. We know it’s a real condition that needs understanding and compassion. Making our patients feel comfortable is a high priority; we will do everything possible to help. 

To help you prepare for your next dental appointment, here are some tips for saying goodbye to dental anxiety, and hello to regular dental care and healthy teeth and gums. 

Understand the cause of your anxiety

Before you can overcome dental anxiety, you need to understand the source. People experience dental anxiety for many reasons, including previous negative experiences, embarrassment and fear of pain. 

Once we understand the reason behind your dental anxiety, The Practice team can work with you to develop a personalised treatment plan that considers your fears.

Communicate your fears

Experiencing dental anxiety is nothing to be ashamed of. When you book your appointment, you must speak up and let our team know that you are experiencing anxiety. We will note it on your file and let your dentist know so they can ensure your appointment is as comfortable as possible. 

Find a distraction

If you’re feeling stressed, it might help to bring something to distract your mind during your dental appointment. At the Practice, we encourage patients with dental anxiety to listen to music, or a podcast, or bring along a fidget to distract yourself during treatment. 

Our resident therapy dog, Fergus, has been through hours of training and is available to help young or anxious patients. If you think he could help, you can book him in advance. 

Agree on a signal

Some patients feel anxious due to their inability to communicate during their dental treatment. If it makes you feel better, we can decide on a signal, such as tapping your knee or raising your hand. If you feel anxious, you can signal and we’ll take a break. 

Consider sedation dentistry

Sedation dentistry can be an effective way to manage dental anxiety for some patients. At The Practice, we offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas). This can help you relax and feel more comfortable during your appointment. 

If you fear pain, sedation dentistry is helpful, especially if you need more complex treatment. Our dentists will work with you to determine the best sedation option and ensure your safety and comfort during your appointment. 

Practice mindfulness

Practicing mindfulness may be helpful if you’re feeling anxious before your dental appointment. Take a few minutes before your appointment to breathe in and out and relax. This can help reduce your stress and calm your mind before your appointment. 

Starting your day right can also help to reduce anxiety. Ensure you get enough sleep the night before your appointment, eat well and exercise to help you feel more relaxed.  

Choose the right dental practice

Choosing the right dental practice is vital in helping you overcome dental anxiety. When choosing a dentist, you must find a practice you are comfortable with and a dentist who understands your unique needs and concerns. 

At The Practice, we’re dedicated to ensuring you are comfortable and have created a welcoming environment for all our patients. We always take a gentle, compassionate approach to dental care, with special consideration for patients with dental anxiety. We’re committed to building strong and trusting relationships with our patients and will help you, however, we can. 

 We’re committed to providing a comfortable environment and personalised care for all our patients. With open communication and understanding, we’ll help you say goodbye to dental anxiety and ensure you have a happy, healthy smile. 

To make an appointment at our West End dental practice, call 07 3733 3223 or book an appointment online.