Is Dental Anxiety Keeping You from a Smile Makeover?

You’ve always hated that large gap in between your two front teeth. You dream about having straight teeth like your best friend. You think you’d get that sales job at work if you had a whiter, more balanced smile. What’s holding you back? Smile makeovers aren’t just for the rich and famous. Cosmetic dentistry is available to all types of patients, including you.

A smile makeover, which can include veneers, teeth whitening, bonding or even implants, can be a life-changing investment. A more attractive smile can boost your self-esteem, improve your chances of corporate success and make you look younger. Unfortunately, many patients have an obstacle that is standing in the way of their dream smile – dental anxiety.

Dental anxiety (or dental phobia) is a very real condition. In fact, it has been estimated that 9% to 15% of Americans avoid seeing the dentist because of anxiety and fear. While the primary concern with dental anxiety is patients not getting the preventive and restorative dental care they need for their oral health, it also means they are likely shying away from cosmetic dentistry too.

Reasons for Dental Anxiety

Dental anxiety can vary in severity. While some patients may experience sweaty palms or a racing heart in the waiting room, others may encounter a paralyzing fear at the mere thought of sitting in a dental chair. There are also different reasons why patients experience anxiety, ranging from the sights and smells of a dental office to a fear of needles or sensitive gag reflex. When it comes to a smile makeover, the length of the overall procedure may be longer than a routine dental cleaning or other general dentistry service. This is a common reason why many dental phobia patients dismiss the idea of getting a complete smile makeover.

What You Should Know

Before you count yourself out for a new beautiful smile, you should know that there are ways to combat your dental anxiety. First, ask for sedation dentistry. Sedation dentistry was designed to help anxious or fearful patients relax in the dental chair. Second, consider breaking up your cosmetic dental procedures into multiple visits if the thought of a lengthy procedure causes anxiety. Lastly, always discuss your specific concerns with your dentist.

At Cosmetic Dentistry of Hayward, we want to know how we can make your smile makeover more comfortable. In fact, we want you to feel pampered and relaxed throughout your entire visit. If dental anxiety is what is holding you back from improving your smile appearance, we can help!