How to manage dentist anxiety

Looking after your oral health is important, and going to the dentist for regular check-ups is a key part of this. However, for many people, these check-ups are a significant cause of anxiety. This means they’re more likely to skip their visits, which can lead to worsening oral health.

If you have dental anxiety, it’s important to find ways to manage your anxiety so you can still receive effective dental care. Some strategies to help include:

• discussions with your dental team
• relaxation techniques
• music
• cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

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Tips for managing anxiety at the dentist

There are several strategies you can take to ease your anxiety before a dentist’s appointment. It’s important to discuss your anxiety with the dental team so they’re aware and can try to make the experience more comfortable for you. In some cases, you may be able to be sedated for your appointment if you and the dentist feel this will help.

In other cases, you might try therapies with other healthcare professionals to manage your anxiety. These may involve CBT, muscle relaxation, guided imagery, and breathing techniques.

What to do before your next appointment

Here are some practical tips to implement before your next appointment:

• Tell the dental office about your anxiety when booking.
• Ask for a consultation to discuss your concerns before any treatment.
• Agree on a hand signal for pauses during the visit.
• Bring headphones and calming music (if allowed).
• Bring a support person with you, such as a friend or family member.
• Request that the dental team explain each step before starting.
• Schedule your appointment at a time when you feel less rushed.

How can online care help?

Online care services, including Optum Perks Online Care, may make getting treatment easier. With these services, you can submit an online form answering a few questions about your symptoms, and a US-licensed healthcare professional will respond soon after to prescribe a treatment plan.

In most cases, you will need to see a dentist in person for the right care. But online care may be available for some cases of tooth pain, with prescriptions for antibiotics or medicated mouthwashes.

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