Let’s be real, visiting the dentist isn’t everyone’s idea of a good time. For some Aussies, even thinking about sitting in the dental chair is enough to bring on a wave of panic. Whether it’s the smell of the clinic, the sound of the drill, or a bad memory from the past, dental anxiety is surprisingly common, and it can have real consequences on your oral and overall health.
What is Dental Anxiety?
Dental anxiety is a feeling of fear, stress, or unease associated with visiting the dentist. It can be mild, like a few butterflies in the stomach, or more intense, leading to full-blown panic attacks or even avoiding the dentist altogether.
For some people, the anxiety is so strong that they put off treatment for years, even if they’re in pain or uncomfortable.
In fact, research shows that around 1 in 6 Australian adults experience high dental fear, and it’s even more common among those who haven’t had regular check-ups.
What Causes Dental Anxiety?
There’s no one-size-fits-all explanation for dental anxiety. It usually comes from a mix of personal experience, fear, and sometimes even stories from family or mates. Here are the most common reasons we hear from patients:
1. Previous Negative Experiences
One of the top reasons for dental anxiety is a bad past experience, like a painful procedure, feeling like you weren’t listened to, or not being properly numbed during treatment. That memory can stick and make you dread going back.
2. Fear of Pain
Let’s face it, no one wants to feel pain at the dentist. Even though modern dentistry is way more comfortable than it used to be, the fear of pain is still a major trigger for many people.
3. Feeling Powerless or Not in Control
Lying back with your mouth open while someone works away can feel a bit vulnerable. For some, the lack of control or not knowing what’s going to happen next can cause a lot of stress.
4. Embarrassment About Teeth
Worried about bad breath, stained teeth, or gum issues? You’re not alone. Many people avoid the dentist because they’re afraid of being judged. But at Dentists at Surrey Hills, we’re here to help, not to judge.
5. Fear of Needles or Drills
The sight of a needle or the sound of a drill is enough to trigger anxiety in plenty of people. These are common phobias that can be tough to shake, even as adults.
6. General Anxiety Disorders
If you already suffer from anxiety, it can naturally extend to dental visits. Even a routine clean can feel overwhelming if your baseline anxiety is high.
How Dental Anxiety Affects Your Health
Avoiding the dentist might feel like a short-term fix, but it can cause bigger issues in the long run, not just for your teeth, but your general health as well.
1. Worsening Dental Conditions
Skipping check-ups allows small problems like plaque, cavities, or early gum disease to worsen. When you eventually do go to the dentist, the treatment needed might be more complex or invasive, reinforcing the fear cycle.
2. Pain and Infections
Untreated dental problems can lead to chronic pain, infections, and even abscesses. In extreme cases, infections in the mouth can spread to other parts of the body.
3. Lower Self-Confidence
If you’re unhappy with the way your teeth look, it can affect your confidence. People with dental issues might avoid smiling, speaking in public, or social situations altogether.
4. Link to Other Health Problems
Poor oral health could be linked to serious conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory illness. So, looking after your teeth is about more than just keeping your smile nice – it’s a key part of staying healthy overall.
How to Cope with Dental Anxiety
The good news? Dental anxiety is treatable. With the right approach, support, and communication, you can overcome those fears and start taking control of your oral health. Here’s how we help our patients at Dentists at Surrey Hills:
1. Let Us Know You’re Anxious
Sounds simple, but it’s the most important step. Tell us how you’re feeling before the appointment or when you arrive. We’ll take the time to talk through your concerns and adjust the way we work to suit your comfort level.
2. Choose a Dentist Who Gets It
You deserve a dentist who listens and cares. Our team is trained to work with nervous patients – we’re patient, gentle, and we never rush. We’ll explain every step and make sure you’re feeling okay along the way.
3. Bring a Friend or Support Person
Sometimes having a familiar face in the room can make a world of difference. Feel free to bring someone along to sit with you before or during the appointment.
4. Use Relaxation Techniques
Deep breathing, guided meditation, and muscle relaxation can all help reduce tension before and during your visit. Some patients find it helpful to focus on their breathing or listen to calming music while in the chair.
5. Try Distraction Methods
Bring headphones and listen to music, an audiobook, or a podcast. Some patients even watch videos or play calming background sounds on their phone during treatment.
6. Discuss Sedation Options
For those with severe anxiety, we offer sedation options to help you feel more relaxed during your appointment. These may include:
- Happy gas (nitrous oxide): A safe and mild sedative that takes the edge off.
- Oral sedatives: A tablet taken before your appointment to help with anxiety.
- IV sedation: For more serious procedures or extreme anxiety, done under close monitoring.
We’ll talk you through the safest and most effective option for your situation.
7. Start Small
If it’s been a while since your last visit, don’t stress. Start with a basic check-up and clean – we’ll go at your pace. The more positive experiences you have, the easier future visits will feel.
8. Stick to a Routine
Regular dental visits help you stay ahead of problems, and the more familiar you are with the process, the less scary it becomes. Consistency builds confidence.
Helping Kids with Dental Anxiety
Kids can pick up on your stress, so it’s important to keep things positive from the start. Here are some quick tips:
- Use friendly, positive language when talking about the dentist.
- Let them bring a favourite toy or comfort item.
- Choose a child-friendly dentist (like us!) who knows how to keep little ones calm.
- Celebrate small wins with praise or a fun reward afterwards.
You’re Not Alone – and We’re Here to Help
If you’ve been putting off the dentist because of fear, you’re not the only one – and you don’t have to deal with it alone. At Dentists at Surrey Hills, we pride ourselves on providing a caring, calm, and judgment-free environment where your comfort comes first.
We’ll work with you to develop a personalised approach that meets your needs and helps you feel in control every step of the way. Whether it’s been six months or six years since your last visit, we’re here to help you take that first step, without pressure or shame.
Ready to take the fear out of dentistry?
Book an appointment with Dentists at Surrey Hills today and experience dental care that’s calm, caring, and tailored to you.
