How to Treat Dental Anxiety

Dental anxiety or dental phobia is a real problem for many people, preventing them from seeking the dental care they need. Unfortunately, this often results in complex dental problems, including tooth loss, that has a detrimental effect on daily quality of life. We provide sedation dentistry options to enable those who suffer from dental anxiety to feel relaxed and comfortable during their treatment in our Arlington Heights, IL office. Sedation dentistry can also be used to perform several dental treatments during a single visit.

Many patients tell us all the time about how much they used to dread going to the dentist before finding our office. Our goal is to create a positive patient experience so that you are able to sit back, relax, and look forward to your upcoming dental appointments and procedures. We have some tips to help patients with dental anxiety overcome their fears of the dentist. Here are three things you can do to help you relax at the dentist’s office.

Dental Anxiety in Arlington Heights, IL

Come Prepared!

A big stressor that many patients experience is settling in at a new dentist’s office. There will be some paperwork to fill out, and we may ask for certain documents from you to ensure we are able to provide you with the care you need. Being well-prepared for your appointment will ensure that the doctor has all of the needed information to provide the best possible care for you. It will also help relieve any unnecessary dental anxiety you may be feeling.

If you are planning on scheduling your first appointment with AH Smiles, we have made it easy for you to be prepared for your appointment. You may access all of our patient forms below:

Don’t Hold Back; Ask Questions

Another factor that contributes to dental anxiety is not knowing what to expect when you sit down in the dental chair. We recommend asking questions before, during, and after your appointment. If you need further information about your dental health procedures, please let us know at any time!

We prioritize patient education initiatives and do our best to answer all of your questions so that you feel confident about your dental procedures and treatments received. An informed patient is a healthier patient. That’s why we provide you with everything you need to know about your dental health care.

Dental Sedation for Anxiety in Arlington Heights, IL

We use nitrous oxide. Known as “laughing gas”, nitrous oxide allows patients to feel completely relaxed during treatment while also remaining awake and cooperative. The effects of sedation are only experienced while the mask is in place, subsiding quickly once removed. For additional measures, you can also consider bringing a trusted friend along with you to your appointment. You may also bring in headphones and listen to your favorite music while we work on your teeth.

If you are looking for a compassionate and comprehensive dentist in Arlington Heights, IL, come visit Dr. Brent Engelberg at AH Smiles. Dr. Engelberg will discuss your personal concerns and fears prior to your treatment and recommend the appropriate sedation option. If you have been avoiding the dentist for some time, schedule a dental appointment to begin the process of restoring your natural smile.