We’re not offended that many people are terrified at the mere thought of visiting the dentist. Some experience dental anxiety that is less severe, but continue to cancel dental appointments or put off obvious issues with their dental health. The general public is unaware of the variety of safe new techniques in dental sedation and dental relaxation.
Dental fear and anxiety can be caused by a past experience that was less than pleasant. Or, the dental anxiety could have simply increased over time.
Whatever level of fear or anxiety you many have related to a specific dental procedure or office visit, know that we are committed to making your experience a new one.
In fact, we don’t even want to try and twist your arm to make an appointment. We believe the first step in conquering or dealing with your concerns it to talk to you in person. We’ll carve out some time in our schedule to learn more about your specific situation. Some patients are so concerned about setting foot in our office, Dr. Sigmon has graciously agreed to meet them at a coffee shop down the street. He’s that committed to helping you find a solution because your dental health is a key factor in preventing many other serious health problems like diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s and other conditions.
Solving Your Dental Anxiety or Dental Fear
You may consider a different approach to how you think about a visit to the dentist. Instead of focusing on your fear, try answering these questions and bring them to your meeting with Dr. Sigmon:
- What would my “dream” visit to the dentist look like?
- What personality or traits would my dentist have?
- What would the dentist and staff do during my visit?
- What would the dentist and staff NOT do during my visit?
Each Patient is Different
It’s important to remember that your fears and anxieties are not necessarily the same as another patient. Yes, there are common fears we know about, but your specific dental history is unique. The more detailed you can be in describing your concerns, the more effective solutions we can recommend. We want to learn more about you and what makes you comfortable.
You may have a fear of certain instruments or dental procedures. Maybe your current level of dental anxiety is related to a specific dentist or visit from your past. We want to know the details. Possibly your fear is unrelated to a dental visit but a general fear of medical procedures.
Think about your level of anxiety on a scale from 1 to 10. (1 being very mild and 10 being unbearable.)
You may also think about specific visits to the dentist and what made you uncomfortable. What level of anxiety do you associate with:
- Lying down in the dental chair
- Flossing by the hygienist
- Hands in my mouth or near my nose
- X-rays being taken
- Water or spray being used
- Objects being put in my mouth
- Not being able to swallow
- Gag reflex
- Talking with dentist or staff
- Answering personal questions
- Not knowing how to request a break to breath or swallow
What Do You Believe is the Solution?
We are always curious about your thoughts on a solution. Many request IV Sedation because they’ve done the research and believe this is their only option.
Dr. Sigmon will talk you through the various approaches from minimal sedation, to moderate sedation, deep sedation, and general anesthesia. You might be surprised at the variety of affordable and safe techniques Dr. Sigmon is licensed to perform. You’ll find his thorough and caring approach will give you confidence to look at your dental health in a new way.
Are you ready to take the next step and conquer your dental anxiety for good? Call us today and we’ll guarantee you’ll be taken seriously.
Call our office at (828)385-5155 to determine how sedation dentistry can make your dental visit comfortable and relaxed.
Compass Dental Hickory
Dr. Ryan Sigmon
231 13th Avenue Place Northwest
Hickory, NC 28601
Phone: (828)385-5155
Website: CompassDentalHickory.com
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