If you had a bad experience with the dentist before, don’t worry! We’re here for you and won’t judge. Dr. Keith Boenning and Dr. Nathan Dancykier are local Prosthodontists. We work one-on-one with anxious and fearful patients.
Our dentists will identify your oral health needs, help you address your stressors, and get you the care you need. Some patients avoid biannual dental checkups because they are anxious about visiting the dentist. However, patients who avoid the dentist may not get the treatment they need quickly enough. This lets minor dental concerns grow into complex issues.
Regular dental visits can lower your chance of developing dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Boenning and Dr. Dancykier treat patients with dental anxiety in Towson, MD. Our dental office offers a variety of options to help you relax while we treat your dental concerns.
Solutions for Dental Anxiety
Dr. Boenning and Dr. Dancykier discuss treatment plans with each patient before their care. Our dentists want you to better understand your procedure so you know what to expect. As dental specialists, Dr. Boenning and Dr. Dancykier offer the latest in modern dental care. Our dentists have also continued their education to keep up with the latest dental procedures and methods.
Sedation dentistry helps patients with dental anxiety feel at ease during routine care or complex procedures. Our dentists will discuss your medical history, goals, and concerns before sedation. They make sure that patients feel comfortable before their treatment.
They’ll review options with you before choosing the appropriate method. Sedation dentistry allows patients to feel relaxed when they receive dental care. You can get pain-free care with little to no memory of your procedure.
Nitrous Oxide
Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is a safe way to feel total relaxation when you get dental treatments. We will place a small mask over your nose to deliver the gas throughout the dental appointment. The gas will relax you and take effect immediately.
Even though you will be in a deep state of relaxation, you will still be able to communicate and control your body movements. Once we remove the mask, the effects will quickly wear off.
Oral Conscious Sedation
We use oral conscious sedation for patients with severe anxiety problems. Before your appointment, we will prescribe an oral medication that you will take about an hour before you arrive. This type of sedation will take some time for the effects to kick in because you take it in pill form.
The medication will put you into a deep state of relaxation, but you will not be asleep. You can still move and communicate, but you will not feel panicked or anxious. The medication may take several hours to wear off after your appointment. You will need to have transportation to and from your appointment.
Dental Anxiety FAQs
Patients with dental anxiety may not know where to start. But our dental health professionals are here to help you get the dental care you need.
To begin, read through our dental anxiety frequently asked questions section. If you have further questions, contact our office and we will do our best to help you.
How common is dental anxiety?
Dental anxiety is a prevalent issue in the United States. Some estimates suggest that at least 30% of Americans experience some form of dental-related phobia or fear. This includes people who experience mild uneasiness and those with severe dental phobia.
Dental anxiety can also stem from past negative experiences at the dentist. General concerns about pain or embarrassment during a procedure can be a trigger, too. We’re aware of this issue and offer strategies to help patients manage their anxiety.
Can dental anxiety prevent me from getting the care I need?
Yes. Dental anxiety can make it hard to visit the dentist regularly. When people avoid dental visits, small problems like cavities or gum disease can get worse over time. This can lead to more complicated and painful treatments later. Our Towson dentists understand these fears and work with anxious patients to provide gentle, comfortable care so you can get the treatment you need and keep your smile healthy.
What is the most feared dental procedure?
Many patients fear root canals and tooth extractions. Root canals can feel more invasive than treatments like fillings or crowns, which can make patients nervous. People may be afraid because of past negative experiences, worries about pain, or misunderstandings about the procedure.
Today, dentists use special techniques so you can feel calm and comfortable. You won’t feel any pain during these routine treatments.
Do dentists judge you for having cavities?
No, dentists do not judge their patients for having cavities. Our dentists understand that cavities can develop because of genetics, diet, and oral hygiene habits. Cavities are a common dental issue, and we have the training to provide treatment and care without judgment.
Dentists are there to help you improve your oral health and prevent further dental problems. Be open and honest with us about your concerns or issues.
We’ll also educate you on what you must do to achieve better dental health. Most dentists are compassionate professionals striving to create positive dental experiences.
Can dentists tell if you have anxiety?
Yes, dentists can notice physical signs, such as dry mouth, sweating, trembling, or rapid breathing. Dentists also notice behavioral signs like nervousness, avoidance, or hesitation.
But we welcome you to openly share your concerns with our dentists. Our dentists are understanding and empathetic toward patients with anxiety. If you have dental anxiety, please communicate with our office first. We can provide support and accommodations.
What can I do to prepare for my dental visit if I have anxiety?
You can do several things to prepare if you feel anxious about a dental appointment. First, write down any questions or concerns you have so you won’t forget to ask our dentist. Bring a friend or family member with you for support if that helps you feel more comfortable. Try to arrive a little early so you can relax before your appointment starts.
We also welcome you to let us know about your anxiety. Our staff can explain each step of your procedure and suggest ways to help you feel calm. Taking these steps can make your visit less stressful and help you get the care you need.
Can I request sedation at the dentist?
Yes, you can request sedation at our dental office. Different levels of sedation are available and range from mild to deep sedation. Discuss your needs with us before we make any decisions. We want to prescribe the most effective type of anesthesia for your comfort and safety.
What can I take for anxiety before dental work?
If you have been diagnosed with anxiety, you can get anti-anxiety medication, such as a benzodiazepine (Valium or Xanax), from a doctor. This anti-anxiety medication can help you feel more relaxed. Always follow our dentist’s advice and obtain a prescription when necessary.
Request a Consultation Today
You don’t have to struggle with dental fear or anxiety. Call 410-324-2294 or schedule an appointment with our dentists online anytime. Dr. Boenning, Dr. Dancykier, and our dental team are passionate about assisting our patients with all their dental needs. We aim to create a warm and friendly environment in our Towson dental practice.