Visiting the dentist can be a source of anxiety for many people, regardless of age. The sound of the drill, the fear of pain, or even the sterile environment can trigger feelings of discomfort. This fear is particularly common among children but also affects many adults. At Willow and Sage Counselling, we understand how overwhelming dental anxiety can be and are here to help you or your loved ones manage these fears and prepare for a positive experience at the dentist.

There are many effective strategies for dental desensitization and practical tips available for both kids and adults to ease their anxiety before, during, and after a dental appointment. If you or your child struggles with dental fear, this blog is for you!

Why do Dental Appointments cause Anxiety?

Dental anxiety is more common than you might think. It can stem from various sources such as:

• Previous Negative Experiences: Past experiences of pain or discomfort at the dentist can lead to a fear of returning to the dentist.
• Fear of the Unknown: Not knowing what to expect can heighten anxiety, especially for first-time visitors.
• Loss of Control: Being in the dental chair can make some people feel vulnerable, which can contribute to feelings of anxiety.
• Sensory Overload: The bright lights, loud sounds, and even the smell of a dental office can be overwhelming for some individuals.

Understanding the root cause of your or your child’s anxiety is the first step in addressing it. Once you identify the triggers, you can begin to implement strategies to manage and reduce fear.

How can I Help my Child Overcome Dental Anxiety?

Helping a child overcome dental anxiety requires patience, understanding, and a few practical strategies. Here are some tips to prepare your child for a dental appointment:

• Start Early with Positive Experiences: Introducing your child to the dentist at a young age can help normalize the experience. Start with a “happy visit” where they can meet the dentist, explore the office, and sit in the chair without any procedures being done. This helps create positive associations with the dentist.
• Use Positive Reinforcement: Praise and reward your child for facing their fears. Offering small rewards, like a favorite sticker or fun activity after the visit, can motivate your child to be brave during their appointment. This helps them to create a positive association between their inner thoughts and visit to the dentist,  making it less scary next time.
• Role-Playing at Home: Turn dental visits into a fun game by role-playing at home. Let your child take turns being the dentist and the patient. Use a toy mirror and flashlight to inspect their teeth. This familiarizes them with the process and reduces fear of the unknown. Providing lots of practice and turn-taking will help increase their comfort level and predictability around this activity.
• Choose a Pediatric Dentist: Pediatric dentists are specially trained to handle children’s dental needs and anxieties. They often create a child-friendly environment with toys, games, and colourful decor, which can help your child feel more comfortable. Feel free to ask around for recommendations of a pediatric dentist that is comfortable supporting children. This can also help ease your anxiety if you have concerns around the dentist’s ability to assist children with autism, anxiety, sensory processing difficulties, or hyperactivity, and can help insure a good fit for you and your family.
• Teach Relaxation Techniques: Simple relaxation techniques like deep breathing or visualization can help your child manage their anxiety. Practice these techniques at home before the appointment so they can use them if they start to feel nervous. Remind your child that they can ask for a break when they are feeling overwhelmed at the dentist.

What if Even Brushing Teeth at Home is too Hard?

For individuals with a sensory processing disorder (SPD) or autism, even the act of brushing teeth at home can be a daunting challenge. The texture of the toothbrush, the taste of toothpaste, or the sensation of brushing can be overwhelming, making dental hygiene a difficult routine to maintain. This difficulty is more common than you might think.

Starting with small, manageable steps can make the process easier. Begin by selecting a toothbrush with soft bristles and a toothpaste with a mild flavor. Gradually introduce the routine by allowing your child to explore the toothbrush without using it. Encouraging them to touch and hold the brush can help reduce fear and build familiarity.

Incorporating sensory-friendly strategies, such as using a comfortable blanket or listening to calming music, can also make the experience more comfortable. For some, it may be helpful to start with just a few seconds of brushing and gradually increase the time as tolerance builds. Creating a consistent routine and providing positive reinforcement can help establish a more manageable and less stressful dental hygiene practice at home.

What can Adults do to Manage Dental Anxiety?

Dental anxiety is not just for kids. Many adults also experience significant anxiety before and during dental appointments. Here are some strategies to help you manage your fears:

• Communicate with your Dentist: One of the most effective ways to manage dental anxiety is to communicate openly with your dentist. Let them know about your worries and fears so they can adjust their approach to make you more comfortable. Many dentists are trained to help patients with anxiety and can offer different sedation and pain management options if that is right for you.
• Bring a Support Person: Having a trusted friend or family member accompany you to the appointment can provide emotional support and make you feel less alone. Some people find that simply having someone to talk to in the waiting room can ease their anxiety.
• Use Distraction Techniques: Distracting yourself during the appointment can take your mind off the procedure. Listen to music, a podcast, or an audiobook during your appointment. This can also help reduce the noises you may hear during the visit which can be uncomfortable for some patients. Some dental offices even offer movies or TV to watch during their appointment.
• Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation: Mindfulness and relaxation exercises can be powerful tools in managing anxiety. Practice deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or guided imagery before and during your appointment. Focusing on your breath or a calming image can help you stay grounded.
• Schedule Shorter, More Frequent Appointments: If lengthy appointments are overwhelming, consider scheduling shorter, more frequent visits. This can help reduce the time spent in the chair and make each visit more manageable. Make sure to talk to your dentist about your options. 

What are the Steps to Dental Desensitization?

Dental desensitization is a gradual process that helps individuals become more comfortable with dental procedures over time. This approach is beneficial for both kids and adults and can include:

• Gradual Exposure: Start with short visits that do not involve any procedures, and then slowly build up to more involved treatments. Gradual exposure to the dental environment can help reduce overall anxiety.
• Desensitization Therapy: Working with a therapist to gradually confront and reduce dental fears can be effective. This may involve visualization exercises, relaxation techniques, or cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) to reframe negative thoughts about dental visits.
• Increased Confidence: As you or your child become more accustomed to dental visits, confidence will grow and anxiety will diminish. This can lead to a more positive outlook on future appointments.

Next Steps

If dental anxiety is affecting your or your child’s wellbeing, and you feel you would benefit from some additional support, Willow and Sage Counselling is here to support you. We can work with you to develop personalized strategies to manage and overcome your fears and phobias. Both Surrey and Burnaby locations, as well as online therapy sessions, can help address dental and other medical worries.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Whether you need help preparing for an upcoming appointment or want to address long-standing dental anxiety, we are here to guide you and your child every step of the way. Remember, overcoming anxiety, dental or otherwise, is a journey, but you do not have to tackle it alone. With the right support and strategies, you can approach your next dental appointment with confidence and calm.

Reach out to Willow and Sage Counselling to take the first step towards a healthier, happier smile.