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Dental Anxiety
What Is Dental Anxiety?
Dental anxiety, also known as dental phobia, is a condition in which patients have a debilitating fear of the dentist. People with dental anxiety are aware that their fear is irrational but often have little to no means of managing it. They may be so panic-stricken by the thought of seeing the dentist that they will only go when forced by extreme pain. According to the American Dental Association, dental anxiety is a common condition that affects many patients and can prevent them from getting necessary dental care. Understanding and addressing this issue is the first step toward achieving better oral health and a more positive dental experience.
Signs of Dental Anxiety
Common signs of dental anxiety include:
● Escalating feelings of nervousness in a dentist’s waiting room.● Feelings of intense unease at the thought of a dentist placing objects in the mouth during treatment.● Physical reactions at the thought of visiting the dentist.● Trouble sleeping the night before a dental appointment.
Solutions to dental anxiety are available at Thunderbird Dental Studio in Peoria and the surrounding area. Fear should never get in the way of your health.
DENTAL ANXIETY CONTROL IN PEORIA, AZ
Coping with Dental Anxiety
Find the Right Dentist
Patients should also ask office staff about any recommended coping strategies and agree on a signal to let the dentist know if they need to take a break.
Mindfulness Techniques
Patients may want to try breathing exercises or doing body scans while in the dentist's chair. Others may benefit from distracting themselves by doing things like wearing headphones or occupying their hands.
Children & Dental Anxiety
Parents should maintain a calm exterior as children will pick up on any anxiety displayed by their parents. Dentists have received the training to give simple, non-threatening answers.
TREATMENTS FOR DENTAL ANXIETY
Our Dental Anxiety Treatments
At Thunderbird Dental Studio, we offer same-day comfort solutions that help patients complete needed dental treatment without delay. Depending on your specific situation, we may recommend nitrous oxide, also called laughing gas, prescribed medication, or conscious sedation to encourage deeper relaxation. Our team will review your health history, discuss options, and tailor care that helps you feel comfortable and safe every step of the way.
Relative Analgesia
Also known as “laughing gas,” relative analgesia consists of patients receiving a combination of oxygen and nitrous oxide through a mask fitted to their face. This treatment is quick to take effect and also quick to wear off. Patients remain awake but feel relaxed during the procedure.
Anxiety Medication
Typically, anxiety medication for dental anxiety comes in the form of a pill. It may be prescribed either by a dentist or a doctor. The patient will take a single, short-acting dose about one hour before their dental appointment.
Conscious Sedation
Conscious sedation is a form of intravenous (IV) sedation administered either by a sedation dentist or an anesthetist. Patients under conscious sedation may drift off into a light sleep, making this known as “twilight sedation.”
General Anesthesia
General anesthesia is the most intensive form of sedation, administered through a combination of IV medication and inhaled gases. Patients are put fully to sleep and will require pre- and post-operative visits.
DENTAL ANXIETY TREATMENT PROCEDURE
Dental Anxiety Treatment at Thunderbird Dental Studio
We have designed a step-by-step process for dental anxiety in Peoria that keeps your comfort and peace of mind at the center of everything we do. From your first call to your follow-up visit, our team makes every step clear and reassuring. Here is what you can expect at our Peoria, AZ dental office.
Warm Welcome and Conversation
When you call or schedule online, our coordinators listen carefully to your concerns and set a relaxed pace. When you arrive, you are greeted by a warm, friendly team that respects your comfort level.
Comfort Menu and Coping Tools
We offer cozy blankets, headphones, and music options to help you relax. You can request breaks, ask for a walkthrough, or use a simple hand signal to pause at any time.
Personalized Review and Plan
We review your medical history and previous dental treatment while learning about your fears. Together we tailor a plan with the right sedation options, from laughing gas to conscious sedation, based on your specific needs.
Try-In of Sedation Options
If you choose nitrous oxide, we place a soft mask over your nose and start with a light dose that induces gentle relaxation. If you are using prescribed medication, we will check how you feel before the procedure begins.
Gentle Exam and Imaging
Your hygienist and dentist will go slowly and describe each step in simple terms. You can pause at any time, and we will adjust to ensure you stay comfortable.
Procedure with Ongoing Support
During your procedure, a member of our team will stay nearby to listen and help manage any anxiety. We take frequent pauses, adjust sedation, and check on your comfort often.
Smooth Recovery and Next Steps
With nitrous oxide, patients usually feel normal within hours. For stronger sedation, we provide clear aftercare instructions and check in afterward to make sure you are doing well.
Long-Term Confidence
Our goal is to help you build positive experiences so each visit becomes easier. Many patients find that their anxiety decreases naturally over time, protecting their teeth and improving overall oral health.
WHY CHOOSE US
Why Choose Thunderbird Dental Studio?
You deserve a Peoria dentist who understands dental anxiety and offers practical dental anxiety solutions. At Thunderbird Dental Studio, we combine gentle communication, modern sedation options, and personalized care to ensure every patient receives the best care possible. We are here to support you, keep you safe, and help you feel truly comfortable during every appointment.
Compassionate & Experienced Team
Our friendly team has helped many patients overcome dental fear through empathy and patience. We take time to listen, answer questions, and move at your pace.
Flexible Sedation Options
From laughing gas to conscious sedation, we customize your treatment plan for your comfort. You will know exactly what is being administered and how we will keep you safe.
Personalized Care
Every patient is unique, so we tailor every appointment to your specific needs. We design a comfortable experience that works for you.
Convenience and Clear Communication
We offer online scheduling and easy access to care during flexible hours. You will always know your next step and what to expect.
DENTAL ANXIETY FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What can a dentist do to help my child's dental anxiety?
Dental anxiety among children is common, so many dentists anticipate having to use calming techniques. These include distraction, non-verbal communication, simple instructions, positive reinforcement, voice control, and, in some cases, sedation.
How common is dental anxiety?
According to WebMD, between 9% and 20% of Americans avoid going to the dentist due to dental anxiety. People of all ages and backgrounds can suffer from dental anxiety.
Are there any other words for dental anxiety?
The term "dental anxiety" is most commonly interchanged with "dental phobia." However, other synonymous terms include dentophobia, dental fear, fear of dentists, and odontophobia. These words all refer to the same phenomenon.
Do I really need to go to the dentist if I have dental anxiety?
Putting off necessary dental treatments can be detrimental to your overall health. Patients who refrain from going to the dentist due to dental anxiety are more likely to develop gum disease and lose teeth. These, in turn, may lead to a decrease in self-esteem and negatively affect one's overall quality of life.
Will my dental anxiety get better over time?
Continued exposure and positive experiences with the dentist should lessen your dental anxiety over time. Depending on the severity of your condition, you may also benefit from seeking psychiatric help for your phobia at another facility, along with dental treatment tailored to your needs.
Schedule A Consultation Today!
If dental anxiety in Peoria has kept you from getting the care you need, we are here to help you take the first step toward a confident smile. Call (623) 933-6010 to schedule your appointment with our friendly team. We will listen, discuss your fears, and tailor a plan that fits your life. You deserve to feel safe, comfortable, and supported during every visit. Book now to begin your journey toward better oral health and peace of mind.