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Overcoming Fear, Anxiety and Phobia in the Dental Office

"I know what the dentist is going to do, been there, done that - I'm scared" which triggers a fight-or-flight response when confronted with the stimulus of a dental visit. Fear is a natural instinct that helps us survive in the face of danger. When the body responds, it does not know if the danger is real or imagined. Therefore, the mind can be tricked to react even when a danger does not actually exist. This can happen when you see a shadow at night causing you to become frightened enough to cause your heart to beat rapidly, bring about a faint feeling, or make you start to sweat. Many people begin to have this physical reaction when they think of going to the dentist office. It is easier to address the patient’s fear than turn off the body’s reaction. Dental fear needs to be addressed before it becomes an unmanageable component of the procedure.

Dental anxiety is a reaction to the unknown of what might happen during a dental procedure, as well as a loss of control during the procedure. This type of anxiety can often be reduced if the patient is given information and knowledge in advance, thus eliminating as many unknown factors as possible. It is important to assess the patient’s level of anxiety through body language and conversation before beginning the procedure. This will prevent an escalation of anxiety that might have been handled easily if addressed earlier. It is essential to address all questions and concerns and ensure that the patient is ready to begin any procedures deemed necessary.

A phobia” is traditionally defined as “an irrational severe fear that leads to avoidance of the feared situation, object, or activity.”

In most cases, a dental phobia develops in a person who already suffers from anxiety, and such people avoid dental care at all costs until the pain becomes overwhelming. Dental phobias present a greater challenge and need to be addressed in advance using hypnotic reprogramming, medication or professional counseling and not just simple relaxation techniques or information.

The ability to categorize these three types of dental fear reactions allows the dentist to prepare appropriately. Dental fear is a strain on the dentist and staff as well as the patient. Developing a protocol to address each type of fear in advance promotes a smoother day in the office.