Best Dentist for Dental Anxiety in Rockville

Are you afraid of the dentist? Dental anxiety is a common issue for many people in Rockville. If anxiety is preventing you from going to the dentist, there are some things you can do to help cope with your fear. Here are some ways to get the care you need while being considerate of your anxiety.

What is Dental Anxiety?

Do you experience fear, anxiety, or stress in a dental setting? You may have dental anxiety. Needles, drills, or the dental setting can trigger anxiety for many people. However, if dental anxiety is severe, some people may avoid going to the dentist all together. This is classified as a dental phobia.

Signs and Symptoms

People with dental anxiety may experience the following.

• Racing heart
• Sweating
• Fainting
• Low blood pressure
• Visible distress
• Crying
• Withdrawal or using humor/aggression to mask anxiety.

While it is understandable to avoid the things that make us afraid, routine dental care is crucial to your oral health.

What Causes Dental Anxiety and Phobia?

There are many reasons why people may experience dental anxiety in Rockville. This includes:

• A traumatic dental experience or other healthcare experience
• Prior trauma to the neck or head
• Other traumatic experiences include abuse.
• General anxiety, depression, or PTSD
• Trust issues
• Fear of loss of control
• Anxiety associated with other conditions like agoraphobia, claustrophobia, or obsessive compulsive disorder.

Anyone can have dental anxiety. Children who have had a bad dental experience can often overcome their fear through proper management of the situation and future support in dental visits. Adults unfortunately tend to remain anxious throughout life.

However, finding a dentist who is sympathetic and understanding of your situation can help you cope with going to the dentist.

Coping with Dental Anxiety in Rockville

There are many ways to cope and manage dental anxiety. An open discussion with your dentist about your triggers can help your provider create a management plan with you. This may include things like:

• Meditation
• Deep breathing
• Weighted blankets
• Distraction like music
• Happy gas
• Oral anxiety medication
• Conscious sedation (IV)
• General anesthesia (for severe cases)

If you are looking for a dentist that is sympathetic and understanding of your dental anxiety, please contact Hackley DDS.