Nervous patients
Dental anxiety is real: what actually helps
If you have been putting off the dentist for years, you are in ordinary company and there is nothing to be embarrassed about. What helps depends on what specifically you dread.
By Dr. Ken Goodwin, DMD6 min readUpdated
The short answer
Tell the dental team what worries you before your appointment: an injection, noise, gagging, cost or not knowing what will happen. Ask for an explanation of the visit and agree on a way to request a pause. The right comfort plan depends on the person and the treatment.
Make the first call easier
You can say: “I have put off dental care because I feel anxious. I would like to understand what will happen at the first appointment and discuss ways to make it manageable.” You do not need to explain every previous experience to request that conversation.
If a particular sound, position or procedure has been difficult, mention it. Ask what can be arranged before arriving rather than assuming a specific accommodation is available.
Questions you can bring
- Can you explain the next step before starting it?
- What signal can I use to ask for a pause?
- Which parts of this appointment are an assessment and which are treatment?
- How will discomfort be managed?
- Can we discuss the estimate before scheduling treatment?
Sources and further reading
Ask about comfort without assuming sedation
Local anesthetic and sedation are different. If you want to discuss sedation, ask the practice which options it provides and whether another provider is needed. Do not take medication for an appointment without discussing it with the treating clinician.
A laser may be an option for some care, but it is not a universal solution to anxiety or a guarantee that you can avoid numbing.
Returning after a long gap
Begin by arranging an assessment. Ask the dentist to explain what needs attention, what choices you have and which stages can be scheduled separately. An online article cannot determine how much treatment you need.
Call Park Place Dental at (662) 728-8171 to discuss an appointment in Booneville. If you are in pain, say so when calling so the team can discuss the appropriate next step.
Originally attributed to Dr. Ken Goodwin, DMD. Updated by the practice editorial team. This article is general information, not a diagnosis or a treatment plan for your particular situation. For advice about your own teeth, call the practice on (662) 728-8171.
