It’s not uncommon for people to have unsettling tales of painful procedures and unpleasant dentist experiences. These narratives often instil a deep fear of the dentist, but there is such a thing as gentle dentistry, and plenty of ways to ease dental phobia. According to the team at The Dental Studio, you can have a comfortable dental experience.
Fear of the dentist
Did you know that:
- One in three people suffer from some degree of anxiety when visiting the dentist
- Painless dental visits are possible with gentle dentistry
- There are tools and techniques to help bring anxiety levels down
A fear of the dentist means that many people avoid or delay seeking necessary dental care. This can have detrimental effects on their oral and overall health in the long run. It’s important to recognise that not all dental experiences are negative, and there are steps both patients and dental professionals can take to create more positive and comfortable dental visits.
A good place to start is to opt for a clinic that caters to anxious patients, and has a compassionate and empathetic approach towards dental care. With gentle dentistry, the individual needs and anxieties of each patient are acknowledged and addressed with care and understanding.
6 gentle dentistry approaches to help manage your fear of the dentist:
#1 Guided imagery
This involves visualising yourself in a tranquil and serene setting, such as a peaceful beach or a serene forest. By immersing yourself in this mental imagery, you can effectively distract yourself from any fears or anxieties you may have about your dental appointment, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation. An overhead TV is excellent in helping to facilitate this, leading to a more comfortable dental experience.
#2 Listening to a guided meditation
By calming the mind and soothing the nervous system, a guided meditation can help you manage your fear of the dentist. Meditation allows you to cultivate a sense of inner peace and calmness, making it easier to face dental procedures with a greater sense of calm and control. You can do this both before your appointment and during your visit using the clinic’s headphones or your own if you prefer to listen to a meditation from your personal device.
#3 Tapping techniques (EFT)
Tapping draws on the ancient Chinese practice of acupuncture, which is based on the understanding that energy travels along specific pathways in the body known as meridians. By applying gentle pressure on these meridian points and bringing awareness to your negative thought patterns, you can bring your stress levels down and start to feel calmer and more relaxed for a comfortable dental experience.
One of the better-known points is what’s known as the Union Valley Point. This lies at the junction between the thumb and index finger. Individuals can gently rub this point whilst taking slow deep breaths in and out. This is ideal in periods of heightened stress and worry, such as when sitting in the waiting room, or when getting an injection.
#4 Hypnosis
Dentists who are familiar with treating anxious patients recognise the significance of using a calming voice and positive language to create a more reassuring environment. Gentle dentistry involves using affirming phrases, soothing reassurance, and encouraging language. In this way, dentists can help alleviate your anxiety and instil a sense of confidence and relaxation during dental procedures. This approach aims to shift the focus away from fear and discomfort towards more positive thoughts and feelings.
#5 Inhalation sedation
Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, produces feelings of euphoria and relaxation, making dental procedures virtually painless. Administered through a mask placed over the nose, nitrous oxide helps you remain calm and cooperative during treatment.
#6 Medication
Medication (such as anxiolytics) can be prescribed and taken the day of the appointment. It helps you feel more at ease on the day of your dental visit. Alternatively, medication can be administered through a vein – this is known as intravenous (IV) sedation or sleep dentistry. IV sedation induces a deeply relaxed or sleep-like state, ensuring a painless experience even during extensive procedures.
Why Choose The Dental Studio for gentle dentistry?
DR KIRAN KAUR ARORA, senior dental associate at The Dental Studio, is well aware of the anxiety that many patients face when seeking dental care. “At our clinic, we understand the importance of providing painless dental treatments in order to provide compassionate and supportive care. Our commitment lies in ensuring a positive experience throughout every step of your dental journey,” says Dr Kiran. “Remember, you are not alone in your fear of the dentist. With the right support you can take control of your oral health journey and achieve a brighter, healthier smile.”
Reach out for an initial consultation at The Dental Studio to see how gentle dentistry could help you overcome your fear of the dentist.
The Dental Studio has branches at Paragon, OUE Downtown Gallery and Potong Pasir
dentalstudio.sg
Written in collaboration with The Dental Studio
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