TLDR;
Whitney, a dental hygienist, discusses strategies for overcoming dental anxiety and phobia. She emphasises the validity of these fears, which can stem from past trauma, negative experiences, or the clinical environment. Whitney advises open communication with dental providers, exploring the root causes of anxiety, and finding a dental office that suits individual needs. She also highlights the positive impact of dental procedure videos and community support in reducing fear.
- Acknowledge and validate your fears.
- Communicate openly with your dental provider about your concerns.
- Explore the reasons behind your anxiety, whether it's past trauma, specific procedures, or the environment.
- Consider watching dental procedure videos to familiarise yourself with the process.
- Seek support from online communities and dental professionals who understand your fears.
Introduction: Understanding Dental Anxiety [0:00]
Whitney acknowledges that dental anxiety and phobia are valid feelings, regardless of whether the fear is related to a simple cleaning or a more complex procedure. She explains that these fears can arise from various sources, including past traumatic experiences, hearing about negative experiences from others, or unease with the dental office environment itself, such as the sounds of dental drills. Whitney makes it clear that she is a dental health professional, not a mental health expert, and the advice is based on her experience helping patients. She stresses that the video is not a replacement for advice from a licensed therapist.
Levels of Anxiety and Seeking Professional Help [1:22]
Whitney explains that dental anxiety exists on a spectrum. For those who find it impossible to even enter a dental office, she strongly recommends seeking help from a therapist who specialises in anxiety. Even if you can force yourself to attend appointments but still experience nervousness, consulting a therapist is advisable. While therapy is beneficial, Whitney offers advice from her perspective as a dental hygienist.
The Power of Open Communication [1:52]
Whitney stresses the importance of honesty and open communication with dental providers. By expressing your concerns beforehand, dental professionals can better accommodate your needs and make you more comfortable. Identifying the specific cause of your stress, whether it's fear of pain, sensitive teeth, or past trauma, allows the dental team to prepare and tailor the appointment to your needs. Communication helps to ease anxiety. Dental providers want patients to have a positive experience and return for continued care.
Addressing Specific Fears and Concerns [3:25]
It's beneficial to identify specific triggers for dental anxiety. If past experiences are the cause, dental providers can work to rebuild trust through patience and gradual steps. For recent anxieties, like a patient's concern about a lead collar after thyroid surgery, Whitney suggests calling ahead to alleviate unnecessary stress. Whether it's the noises, the procedures, or uncertainty about what's happening in your mouth, communicating your preferences allows the dental team to accommodate you, whether that means providing headphones, explaining each step, or simply maintaining silence.
Managing Fear of Potential Findings [5:17]
Some patients are more anxious about potential findings, such as cavities, than the cleaning itself. Whitney advises informing your dental provider how you wish to be informed of any issues – whether immediately or at the end of the appointment. While dental professionals are legally obligated to disclose any abnormalities, you have the right to choose when you are mentally prepared to hear the news.
Building Trust and Finding the Right Dental Office [6:09]
Whitney acknowledges that having someone work in your mouth can feel intrusive, and trust issues are common. Dental professionals understand this and are willing to work with you. However, if you feel that your dental providers are not genuine, it may be a sign that the office is not the right fit for you. Finding the right dental office can be like dating – sometimes the first choice isn't the best match. Some offices offer therapy animals or nitrous oxide, while others simply provide a kind, non-judgmental environment. When searching for a dental office, ask about their approach to anxious patients.
The Power of Exposure and Community Support [7:20]
Whitney shares two insights gained from making dental videos. First, some viewers have found that watching dental procedure videos reduces their anxiety by familiarising them with the unknown. Second, the comment threads on these videos demonstrate a supportive community where people encourage each other and share words of wisdom. These comments have inspired Whitney to create this video, hoping to empower others to overcome their fears. She encourages viewers to expose themselves to their fears through videos or seek support from others, and assures them that dental professionals are ready to provide care when they are ready.