Are you avoiding the dentist because of past trauma, fear of the setting, or anxiety? If you’ve been staying away from the dentist because you’re scared or anxious, you’re not alone. Many people skip dental visits because of fear, which is a big reason why people put off routine check-ups, even if they’re important for good oral health.
Unfortunately, small dental issues can quickly turn into bigger, painful problems if left untreated. This can lead to needing more costly and complex treatments. You can trust us at Valley Dental Health because we treat you like family. We extend a warm welcome to new patients from Timonium, Sparks, Lutherville, Hunt Valley, Phoenix, Cockeysville, and nearby areas.
Why Choose Valley Dental Health?
At Valley Dental Health in Hunt Valley, Dr. Roham Rafat and Dr. Ashley Izadi are here to help you feel relaxed and confident during your dental visits. Our staff is skilled in working with patients who feel anxious about dental care. We’ll take the time to talk with you about any worries you have and discuss your treatment options.
Sometimes, just explaining a dental procedure and talking about anesthesia choices can help ease your anxiety. Knowing what to expect can make a big difference in how comfortable you feel.
Dental anxiety, or fear of the dentist, is a common reason for poor oral health in many adults. Our office works closely with patients who are anxious to understand their fears. Whether it’s due to a past bad experience, pain, or being in a medical setting, we help address these issues and make you feel more at ease.
For more complex procedures, Dr. Rafat or Dr. Izadi might suggest sedation options. Sedation can help you stay calm and relaxed during your treatment. You’ll be awake but won’t remember much of the procedure afterward.
We offer different types of sedation, including nitrous oxide, IV sedation, and oral sedation. Nitrous oxide is popular because it doesn’t require an injection, which can be a common fear. It helps you stay awake but pain-free during the procedure. This type of sedation wears off quickly, so you can drive yourself home after your appointment.
Sedation Dentistry in Hunt Valley, MD
Dental sedation can help you stay calm and relaxed during your procedure, while still being awake and able to respond to us. We offer different types of sedation, including IV sedation for those who want to be deeply relaxed or “asleep” during treatment. Dr. Rafat is one of the few dentists in the Baltimore area trained and certified to give IV sedation.
Before choosing the best sedation for you, we’ll review your medical history and discuss your concerns and fears. Our goal is to help you maintain or improve your smile without causing you stress or anxiety.
Good dental health not only enhances your smile but also supports your overall health and well-being. Dental sedation options include:
- Oral Sedation: This comes in pill form and helps you stay relaxed and in control during your procedure. You’ll be awake but feel calm and comfortable.
- Nitrous Oxide: Known as laughing gas, this is given through a mask and makes you feel relaxed and calm. The effects disappear quickly once you stop breathing it in.
- IV Sedation: This involves giving medication directly into your bloodstream for immediate relaxation. The effects wear off quickly after we remove the IV, with fewer side effects compared to oral sedation.
Patient Review
Fear Of The Dentist FAQs
Patient education is one of the best ways to tackle dental fear. Read answers to patient questions about dental anxiety in Timonium, Cockeysville, and the surrounding areas.
How do you get over the fear of going to the dentist?
Many people have a fear of the dentist. Talking to our dentists can help ease this fear, as they can offer solutions to make your visit more comfortable. Try breathing slowly, listening to music, or using hand signals if you feel uneasy. We also welcome you to ask us questions when you’re in our office.
What are some symptoms of dental anxiety?
Anxiety can manifest in different ways. Some signs of dental anxiety include:
- Feeling nervous or worried before a dental appointment
- Trouble sleeping the night before a dental visit
- Increased heart rate or sweating while at the dentist’s office
- Feeling physical discomfort or pain when thinking about going to the dentist
- Avoiding or delaying dental appointments due to fear
- Feeling dizzy or lightheaded while at the dentist
- Having a sense of dread or panic when sitting in the dental chair
- Having difficulty sitting still or feeling restless during a dental procedure
- Nausea or a funny feeling in your stomach before or during a dental visit
- Having a strong urge to leave or escape the dentist’s office
Please call us if you have anxiety but need dental care. We can give you the tools to feel more relaxed when you visit our office. We’ll be happy to work with you.
Does anxiety affect your mouth?
Yes, anxiety can impact your mouth and oral health in several ways. People with anxiety might have dry mouth, grind their teeth, get canker sores, or even face gum disease.
Dry mouth, or xerostomia, happens when anxiety reduces the amount of saliva in your mouth. This can lead to bad breath, tooth decay, and other oral health problems.
Teeth grinding is another common issue linked to anxiety. It can wear down your teeth, make them sensitive, and cause jaw pain. Stress or anxiety can also trigger canker sores, which are painful ulcers inside the mouth.
Anxiety can also weaken your immune system and make it harder for your body to fight off gum disease and other infections. You can manage stress through relaxation techniques, therapy, or medication can keep your oral health in good shape. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are also important because they prevent and address problems related to anxiety.
Can dental anxiety affect my overall health?
Yes, dental anxiety can affect your overall health. When you avoid the dentist because of fear, small problems like cavities or gum disease can get worse. Poor oral health can also increase the risk of other health issues, like heart disease, diabetes, and infections. Managing your dental anxiety helps keep both your mouth and your body healthy.
Can I get sedation for dental cleanings?
If you have severe dental anxiety, you can get mild forms of sedation during a routine cleaning.
Even if the cleaning itself is not painful, fear or stress can make it hard to sit still or feel comfortable in the chair. Mild forms of sedation, such as nitrous oxide can help you relax. You’ll stay awake and able to respond to the dentist, but you’ll feel calm and more at ease.
Can I bring someone with me to my appointment?
Yes. Having a friend or family member there can help you feel more relaxed and supported, especially if you’re nervous about being at the dentist. Many patients find that having a familiar face nearby makes the experience more comfortable. Just let our team know ahead of time so we can make sure there’s room for your guest during your visit.
Can I listen to music or wear headphones during my visit?
Yes, you can listen to music or wear headphones during your dental visit. Many patients find that music helps them relax and tune out the sounds of dental tools. You can bring your own headphones and playlist or ask if we have options available in the office. Listening to something familiar can make your appointment feel shorter and help ease anxiety.
What if I’ve avoided the dentist for years?
If you’ve avoided the dentist for years, you’re not alone. Many people stay away from the dentist because of fear, embarrassment, or past bad experiences. Dr. Rafat and Dr. Izadi understand how you feel and are here to help, not judge. When you visit our office, we’ll take things at your pace and start with a gentle exam to see how your teeth and gums are doing. Our goal is to make you feel comfortable and supported while helping you get back to good oral health.
Get Stress-Free Dental Care
Has it been some time since your last dental visit? We can help. Treat dental anxiety in Hunt Valley, MD. Call us today at 443-733-6613. You can also request an appointment with us online.