How To Defeat Dental Anxiety

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By Joplin Family Dental

For people with dental anxiety, the prospect of an appointment with the dentist can be so intimidating that they’d rather suffer tooth pain in silence than get it treated. That’s why we’re dedicating this post to helping our patients triumph over their dentist-related fears!

DON’T LET POP CULTURE GIVE YOU THE WRONG IDEA ABOUT DENTISTS

Whenever dentists appear in movies and TV shows, we tend to be portrayed in a very over-the-top way that can make us seem much scarier than we are. These fictional stereotypes are relics of the pre-World War II era, before anesthetics were the norm. Our modern dental office has high standards for the care and comfort of patients.

Source: Teeth Talk Girl

DON’T BE EMBARRASSED; DENTAL ANXIETY IS NORMAL

If you’ve been struggling with a fear of the dentist, that’s nothing to feel embarrassed about. Between 9 and 15 percent of Americans are so nervous about the idea of going to the dentist that they avoid it completely! But just because it isn’t uncommon doesn’t mean it’s healthy. Preventing serious dental problems through regular, twice-a-year cleaning appointments is always better than allowing those problems to develop further.

FOR OVERCOMING DENTAL ANXIETY

Before you even set foot in our dental office, you must recognize any fears or anxieties you may have surrounding dentistry. After acknowledging these fears, please speak to one of our helpful front-office workers about your feelings. Be vocal about your apprehensions, fears, and anxiety is best. This way, you’re giving Dr. Kirk a way to gauge your situation and tailor an action plan to your needs.

HOW OUR PRACTICE CAN HELP

With the use of safe oral medication, we will take good care of you and help you be completely comfortable during your appointment. Our #1 goal is your comfort. For people who are nervous or apprehensive, this can be a miracle.

Oral Sedation Dentistry allows you to feel calm and peaceful and experience a carefree state of relaxation with little or no memory of your appointment. Imagine being able to smile confidently and enjoy eating all your favorite foods.

Patients who have experienced dentistry using these medications tell us they were relaxed and comfortable, and it was the best dental appointment they ever had. They are excited to begin a lifetime of having healthy, beautiful teeth and a smile they want to share with others.

Dr. Kirk has done extensive continuing education with DOCS (Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation). In addition to his Missouri State Sedation License, Joplin Family Dental has a Site Certification License. His ACLS (Advanced Cardio Life Support) certificate is renewed every two years.

GET TO KNOW OUR TEAM!

If you or someone you care about struggles with dental anxiety, feel free to schedule a time to come to our practice, meet our team members, and get used to the facility. We want you to feel safe and comfortable with us, and we’ll answer any questions!

To schedule an appointment with Joplin Family Dental, contact our dentist’s office in Joplin, MO, at (417) 781-2900.