Dental Anxiety Treatment – Smilemakers Dental Practice

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Dental Anxiety

Treatments and Therapies for Dental Anxiety

Conquering the Drill:

Relaxation Techniques: Your Inner Calm

Before delving into medication, mastering relaxation techniques empowers you to manage anxiety on your own. Consider these powerful tools:

Deep Breathing: Inhale deeply through your nose, feeling your belly expand. Exhale slowly through your mouth,picturing tension leaving your body. Repeat, focusing on your breath and calming your mind.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Tense and release different muscle groups, starting with your toes and moving upwards. Hold the tension for a few seconds, then release, feeling the tension melt away.
Guided Imagery: Imagine yourself in a peaceful setting, like a beach or a forest. Engage your senses, making the experience vivid and distracting.
Mindfulness: Focus on the present moment, observing your thoughts and feelings without judgment. This helps de-escalate emotional responses and promotes calm.

Nitrous Oxide: The Laughing Gas Option

Nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas,” is a mild sedative inhaled through a mask during your appointment. It induces feelings of relaxation and euphoria, reducing anxiety and discomfort. Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, allowing you to drive yourself home safely.

Oral Sedatives: For Moderate to Severe Anxiety

For more intense anxiety, your dentist may prescribe oral sedatives like temazepam. These medications relax you but don’t render you unconscious. You’ll remain responsive to your dentist’s instructions and have minimal memory of the procedure. Remember, oral sedatives require a responsible driver to accompany you home.

Additional Therapies:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This therapy helps identify and modify negative thought patterns contributing to anxiety, teaching coping mechanisms for effective management.
Acupuncture: This ancient practice uses thin needles inserted into specific points on the body to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
Hypnotherapy: This technique harnesses the power of suggestion to help create a calmer state of mind during dental procedures.

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Choosing the Right Approach:

The best approach depends on the severity of your anxiety, your preferences, and your dentist’s expertise. Discuss your options openly with your dentist to find the most suitable solution.

Remember:

You’re not alone. Dental anxiety is incredibly common.
Communication is key. Discuss your fears and preferences with your dentist.
Relaxation techniques are powerful tools, even outside of dental settings.
Don’t neglect your oral health due to anxiety. Seek professional help and reclaim your smile!

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare professional before starting any new treatment or medication

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Smilemakers
86 Railway Parade Leura 2780 Ph: 02 4784 2560 Fx: 02 4784 3788 Email: info@smilemakers.com.au

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Opening Hours

Monday 9.00-5.30

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday
8.30 -5.30

Friday 9.00-5.00

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Our services include the following: white fillings, extractions, children’s dentistry, preventative dentistry, ceramic fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures (both full and partial), mouthguards, nightguards, bite treatment, tooth bonding, ceramic fillings (cerec), non-surgical gum treatment, tooth whitening (both in surgery and at home), oral hygiene instruction, tooth cleaning, caries management, and immediate replacement of teeth.

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