Feeling nervous about visiting the dentist? You're not alone. This World Mental Health Day, we're exploring dental anxiety, why it happens and the small steps that can help make dental appointments feel more manageable. For many people, visiting the dentist can bring feelings of worry, nervousness or even fear. In fact, according to dentalphobia.co.uk, 53% of people in the UK experience fear or anxiety about visiting the dentist, with 17% avoiding appointments altogether.
On World Mental Health Day, we're recognising that dental anxiety is a very real experience that can affect people of all ages. Whether it's a previous unpleasant experience, a fear of discomfort or simply feeling uncertain about what to expect, these concerns can sometimes make it difficult to get the dental care you need.
Ingrid Perry MBE, National Oral Health Prevention Lead at mydentist, shares her advice on understanding dental anxiety and the practical steps that can help both adults and children feel more comfortable in the dental chair.
Why do we feel anxious about visiting the dentist?
Dental anxiety can develop for several reasons, and everyone's experience is different. For some, it stems from a difficult childhood experience. Others may feel nervous about particular sounds, sensations or treatments, while some simply don't like feeling out of control during an appointment.
Ingrid commented: "It's true, the thought of the dentist can send shivers down many spines, whether you're 5 or 55. But understanding why we feel this way can help us take steps towards making dental appointments a more positive experience.
"Anxious patients often have had a previous unpleasant experience at the dentist, usually during childhood. Thankfully, dentistry has advanced significantly over the years, but those memories can remain with us for a long time."
How dental anxiety can affect your oral health
When something makes us anxious, avoiding it can feel like the easiest option. But when it comes to our oral health, putting off dental appointments can sometimes create further worries. Regular dental check-ups help your dentist identify potential problems early, often before they develop into something more complicated.
Ingrid commented: "Dental phobia is a real thing for many, and it can often kickstart a rather unhelpful chain reaction. If we're scared, we avoid the dentist. By doing so, our teeth may begin to suffer, and then we're even more scared about what might need fixing.
"This can lead to putting off necessary treatments, turning small issues into bigger, more complicated ones down the line."
Recognising these feelings and talking openly about them can be an important first step towards breaking this cycle.
Five ways to make dental appointments feel more manageable
If you experience dental anxiety, there are several simple things you can try to help make your next appointment feel more comfortable.
- Tell your dental team how you're feeling - You don't need to hide your nerves or feel embarrassed about them. Letting your dental team know what makes you anxious gives them an opportunity to understand your concerns, explain what to expect and discuss ways to support you.
- Ask questions before your treatment - Sometimes, knowing what to expect can make a big difference. If you're unsure about any part of your appointment, ask your dentist to explain what will happen before they begin.
- Agree on a signal to take a break - If you're worried about feeling uncomfortable or overwhelmed, speak to your dentist about using a simple hand signal to let them know when you need a pause.
- Try simple relaxation techniques - Slow, steady breathing can help you feel calmer before and during your appointment. You could also ask whether you can listen to music through headphones to help distract you from unfamiliar sounds.
- Take things at a pace that works for you - Building confidence can take time, particularly if you've avoided appointments for a while. Talk to your dental team about your concerns so they can work with you to make your experience as comfortable as possible.
Helping children feel more comfortable at the dentist
Dental anxiety doesn't just affect adults. Children can experience similar worries, sometimes becoming tearful, clingy or reluctant to attend appointments. Our own feelings can also influence how children approach dental care.
"For parents, your feelings can be influential," commented Ingrid. "If a child sees you looking worried or upset at the dentist, those feelings can easily transfer. Even casual chats about a bad dental experience, or well-meaning phrases like 'It won't hurt' can make a child think about pain inadvertently, planting seeds of anxiety."
To help children build a positive relationship with dental care, Ingrid recommends a few simple approaches:
- Start early: Take your child to the dentist when their first milk teeth appear, or by their first birthday, to help them become familiar with the environment.
- Make it familiar: Play dentist at home using a toothbrush and their favourite toys to introduce the idea of having their teeth checked.
- Keep things positive: Use calm, reassuring language and avoid sharing negative experiences of dental treatment around children.
- Bring something comforting: A favourite toy or book can help children feel more relaxed during their appointment.
- Talk to the dental team: Let them know about any worries your child has so they can help make the experience feel less overwhelming.
Dental teams may also use a 'tell-show-do' approach, explaining what they're going to do, showing children the equipment and helping them become comfortable with each step before proceeding.
You're not alone in feeling anxious about the dentist
On World Mental Health Day, it's important to recognise that looking after our wellbeing also means feeling supported when accessing healthcare. Dental anxiety isn't something to be embarrassed about, and there's no single approach that works for everyone.
Ingrid commented: "The important thing for all patients with dental anxiety is to uncover the root cause," explains Ingrid. "If you can share either yours or your child's concerns with your dentist, they can guide you step by step throughout the appointment. This communication can help minimise any worries and build trust between the patient and the clinician."
Speak to your local mydentist practice
At mydentist, we're committed to creating a welcoming, supportive environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns and receiving care at a pace that works for them.
Whether you're booking your first appointment in years or helping your child feel more confident about their next visit, our teams are here to listen, understand and support you.
If you're new to mydentist or looking for a practice, find your local mydentist today. You can also explore our full range of treatments and services online.