Tips To Relax Anxious Patients
In order to keep anxious patients relaxed during dental treatment, you need to first identify the reasons behind their anxiety. This can include anything from a fear of needles to a fear of the dentist. Once you've figured out the root cause, you can then work on ways to help them feel more comfortable. For example, if they're afraid of needles, show them that it's a quick and painless procedure. If they're afraid of the dentist, reassure them that dentists are there to make people happy and healthy again.
Make sure to focus on positives when talking with your patient and provide plenty of reassurance. Explain what will happen before each step of treatment so they know what to expect, which should reduce any fears. It can be hard for anxious patients because they know they don't do well in these situations but you need to try and remain calm in order for them to relax as well.
The best way to go about this is to maintain an open line of communication throughout the appointment. Be honest about everything that's happening and try not to offer false reassurances. Instead, show them pictures or videos of procedures being done successfully. Letting your patient know that other people have felt the same way before may help relieve some pressure and let them see that they aren't alone in this experience
Causes of dental anxiety
Some patients are more anxious than others. The most common anxiety triggers for dental treatment include, fear of pain, fear of the unknown not knowing what to expect, fear of needles, and fear of the dentist. Some anxious patients are also afraid they won't be able to get out of the dental chair after treatment is over. As a result, they may have trouble breathing, feel dizzy or faint, and experience panic attacks. One way to help alleviate some of these fears is by implementing self-hypnosis during dental care. One study found that hypnosis reduced perceived pain during a surgical procedure by almost 50.
Another study found that it could help people relax during root canal therapy, as well as reduce their levels of discomfort at the end of treatment. A third study found that hypnosis can also help people recover from anesthetic medications quicker, too. There's no reason for anxious patients to dread going in for their next visit.
What are some symptoms of dental anxiety?
It is not uncommon for patients to experience some level of dental anxiety. Symptoms may include, but are not limited to shortness of breath, chest pain, rapid heart rate, dizziness and dry mouth. Those who have a more severe fear may be experiencing a panic attack. A patient's level of anxiety often correlates with the level of pain they feel during treatment. If a person feels comfortable and confident in their dentist and team members, it can help reduce their anxiety which in turn helps reduce their discomfort. That being said, sometimes no matter how much time you spend with your anxious patients before treatment starts or what reassurances you give them that they're safe in your care they just won't relax during treatments like others will. For further information visit Dentista.
