Dental Anxiety

So What is Dental Anxiety?

This is a very common problem that we hear a lot. It’s a general feeling of uneasiness about going to visit the dentist which can often lead to patients delaying or in some cases completely foregoing treatment or check-ups.

What is the Cause of the Anxiety?

There can be a myriad of reasons; childhood fear that could have been passed on from a parent or sibling. Fear of loss of teeth or even a feeling of an invasion of your privacy and space, all the way down to simple embarrassment at the condition of their teeth.

Signs to look Out For

The signs can manifest themselves in numerous ways but some of the more common ones to look out for are:

Distress during treatment
Trouble regulating breathing, increased heart-rate, sweating or palpitations
Feelings of nausea
Issues with sleep leading up to procedure

How can this Affect Oral Health?

Avoidance is definitely not the answer when it comes to your dental health, regular visits allow the dentist to flag any early warning signs.

What can my Dentist do to Help?

Talk to your dentist, let them know how you’re feeling. Open dialogue and discussion about upcoming procedures can often put a patient at ease.

And if I Still Feel Anxious?

There are still options open to you:

Sedation – talk with your dentist about this procedure

Hypnotherapy – whilst this sounds a bit extreme, hypnosis has proven to be most effective with patients who are nervous

Distraction – Stress balls, music or even visual distractions, whatever helps you get through the procedure please mention to your dentist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the dental check-up process?

Firstly, your dentist in Smile Hub will ask you some medical questions. Existing patients may be asked to confirm any changes since their last visit. It is important that your dentist is aware of any changes to your medical history.

Oral Examination:

Your dentist will examine inside and outside your mouth including your jaw joint. Your dentist in Smile Hub will examine your teeth, your gums, tongue, cheeks, roof of your mouth and floor of your mouth. Both existing restorations such as fillings and crowns will be assessed including teeth that are unrestored. Your dentist will also examine your bite and if you wear a removable partial or complete denture this will be inspected.

Gums:

Your dentist in Smile Hub will examine your gums. Your gums are as important as your teeth as they are the “support structure” for your teeth.

X-rays:

At frequent intervals your dentist may require x-rays as part of your dental check-up. These are small, low dosage x-ray images which help your dentist to assess your tooth/teeth structure, supporting bone and existing filling and crown restorations. Your dentist in Smile Hub may also require a large full mouth x-ray called an OPG. Please inform your dentist if you’re pregnant prior to having x-rays taken.

Teeth Cleaning:

At Smile Hub your dentist may recommend that you have your teeth cleaned during your dental visit. A simple scale and polish or airpolish procedure is important to better assess your teeth and gums. Occasionally plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth making assessment of your teeth and gums more challenging.

What happens after my dental check-up?

Once your dental exam is over a treatment plan will be discussed with you. This treatment plan is a list of dental treatments required and their associated costs. A printed copy of this treatment plan will be given to you. Advice on all aspects of your treatment is available with your dentist at all times.

When will my recall appointment be scheduled?

After your treatment is completed and if your check-up requires no intervention, your dentist will recommend the appropriate time for the next dental check-up/recall. The reception staff will have your details on file and will ensure that you are called back at the appropriate time. If you need to see us sooner than that, please contact Smile Hub Dental Clinic on 01 5253888 or Book Online Now and we will help organise this for you.

How long does a dental exam take?

The length of a dental exam depends on the patient and the dentist. Here at Smile Hub Dental Clinic, it usually only takes a few minutes to examine the teeth and take x-rays if they are needed. If the dentist finds anything that may need treatment during the examination, they will take their time to explain to you in detail what it is and the possible treatment options available. You can also ask the dentist any queries you may have regarding treatment. A treatment plan will then be made and given to you at the end of your appointment.

Can treatment be done on the same day as an exam?

In some cases, treatment can be done on the same day as an examination. If it is a short examination appointment and the dentist has other patients after this they may suggest coming back in for treatment. If you have just booked in for an exam but the dentist has time free after your appointment, they may be able to do the treatment there and then. In the case of an emergency appointment, we will always give extra time for emergency treatment to be completed as soon as possible.