Up to 3 out of 5 people experience anxiety before a dental visit
You should know that you are not alone in feeling some anxiety or discomfort before your dental visit. Approximately 1-3 out of 5 people experience some form of anxiety or fear before a dental visit, and about 1 in 10 people suffer from dental phobia or fear of the dentist so severe that they avoid going to the dentist.
What is dental fear?
Dental fear and phobia occur at all ages and are equally prevalent among women and men.
Some experience anxiety and discomfort before their dental visit, others experience panic-like feelings to the point that they avoid going to the dentist or dental hygienist even though there is a need, and some have developed a dental phobia (odontophobia).
How does dental fear manifest itself?
How dental fear manifests itself differs from person to person. Some may appear completely calm on the outside while on the inside they are panicking and feeling that the treatment will have terrible consequences.
Others experience physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, nausea, shaking, or sweating at the thought of dental care. Some say they know nothing dangerous will happen, but still experience anxiety and fear.
It’s important to dare to go to the dentist
If you are afraid of dental care, the fear can be so strong that you postpone a visit or completely avoid visiting the dentist even though there is a need, which can lead to serious problems with your teeth and gums.
Your oral health is important for your teeth and gums, but also for your overall health, and should not be neglected due to fear. Therefore, it is important to visit the dentist and/or dental hygienist regularly, even if you are afraid of dental care, to avoid developing preventable dental and gum disease.
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Treatment with nitrous oxide and sedation
We now offer two proven and effective methods to help those who suffer from dental fear.
Laughing gas
Nitrous oxide is a mild form of sedation that is inhaled through a nasal mask. It has been used in dentistry for many years and is particularly appreciated for its rapid effect and high safety profile. Within a few minutes, you will feel calm, relaxed and less sensitive to pain, while remaining awake and conscious throughout the treatment. For example, it will be easier to get anaesthetic and nausea will be reduced or disappear completely. The effect of nitrous oxide will disappear quickly after the treatment is finished, which means that you can usually return to your daily activities immediately afterwards.
Sedation
For more extensive treatments/major procedures or severe dental fear, we can also offer medical sedation, where you receive sedative medication in the form of an oral solution or tablet. You are still awake but are in a very relaxed state and often remember little or nothing of the treatment itself. We most often use Midazolam, which is given as an oral solution about 20–30 minutes before the treatment. It has a calming effect and the effect lasts for about two hours. It is good to know that you are not allowed to drive until at least 12 hours after taking it. This form of sedation requires special medical assessment and supervision by experienced personnel.
When using medical sedation with tablets (Oxazepam), which also have a calming effect, the effect lasts for about 4–5 hours. It is good to know that they can cause side effects, such as drowsiness and dizziness, which can affect your ability to drive.
Who is nitrous oxide and sedation suitable for?
Nitrous oxide and sedation are very safe methods, but should be avoided in certain situations and for certain health conditions. Before we suggest treatment with nitrous oxide or sedation, we always make a careful medical assessment as the treatments are not suitable for everyone.
That’s how it works!
Nitrous oxide and sedation are very safe methods, but should be avoided in certain situations and for certain health conditions. Before we suggest treatment with nitrous oxide or sedation, we always make a careful medical assessment as the treatments are not suitable for everyone.
Dare to take the first step – book an appointment today!
We understand that dental care can be unsettling – and we take it seriously. With the help of modern technology, professional treatment and safe sedation, we create the conditions for a positive experience, regardless of previous experience.
We know it can feel overwhelming to just get in touch, but we are here for you. Contact us for a consultation where we can tell you more about how we can help you overcome your fear of dentistry. Book an appointment online or call us at 08 – 20 06 80
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