Most of us have had dental examinations and dental treatments at some stage in our lives. However, for a number of individuals, even the thought of dental treatment or visits to a dentist, triggers a number of symptoms, from anxiety through to panic attacks. This is known as dental phobia, dental fear and anxiety, causing people to avoid dental visits where possible.
Dental practitioners recognise dental anxiety and difficulties these patients face and offer alternative options such as sleep dentistry in Geelong.
Dental phobia
A patient may have had a bad experience when younger, which has triggered a fear of dentists. Therefore, they delay or cancel their check-ups and when faced with a problem, continue to ignore it. This may lead to further problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. Finally forced to undergo symptom-driven treatment which by now may be more intensive than if the problem had been caught earlier, this reinforces the person fears and dental phobia.
Symptoms of dental fear
This can present itself in a number of ways. Noticeably, there is the physiological response which leaves someone feeling sick and shaking at the thought of a dental visit. Their heart rate increases and they feel out of breath leading to high anxiety and agitation. Panic mode ensues with feelings of not able to breathe for example and emotional responses of fear and apprehension.
Different ways of management
Some alternative management of dental fear can be provided by the dental practice using sedation or sleep dentistry. Practitioners understand the fears and concerns exhibited by patients. Some patients find a dentist who is understanding and has experience in treating anxious patients. This may start with having a visit to the practice to look around the clinic and get to meet the staff involved. Talking to the dentist about dental fear can be helpful, as well as being able to see the treatment room and to understand the process and procedures that the patient will need.
What is Sleep Dentistry?
Sleep dentistry allows patients to be completely asleep during the dental process. This is useful for patients who are anxious, or need multiple dental work done. With sleep dentistry, the patient can complete their dental treatment without being aware of the sounds or sights of the procedure.
At Geelong West Dental, this form of sedation is administered by our highly trained anaesthetic team, who will be able to take you through the entire process, answer your questions and concerns.
The contents of this post do not substitute professional dental advice. A consultation is needed for further assessment. For more information on sleep dentistry, recovery process and risk assessments, visit https://www.geelongwestdental.com.au/dental-fear/sleep-dentistry/
Contact the friendly and experienced dentist in Geelong today to discuss your sleep dentistry treatment. Using state-of-the-art dental technology and by integrating a patient-centred approach, Geelong West Dental are committed to ensuring your comfort in a welcoming environment.
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