Dental Fear Canley Heights: Tips to Overcome Anxiety at the Dentist

Dental fear is one of the most common reasons for people to avoid their dental check-ups.

The problem is, while you’re putting the dentist off, you’re not avoiding them altogether. If you have dental fear, you’re less likely to visit the dentist regularly, which puts you at a higher risk of dental disease.

Once you don’t visit for long enough, dental diseases like tooth decay, gum disease, and even crooked teeth in children can progress beyond the point of fixing.

That is, your dental fear has severe implications for your smile. People with dental fear often end up presenting when things are too late or after they’ve experienced extreme pain.

Most Common Dental Fears

People often think that dental fear is about being afraid of injections or the drill.

While you may have these fears, there are often other problems, including:

• being humiliated or told off
• not having control
• fear of not getting numb
• choking or gagging
• fear of allergic reactions
• fear of unnecessary treatment
• not being able to cope with the news of what needs to be done

And many more. Visit us at Canley Heights Dental Care for more information and possible solutions to overcome dental fear!

Tips for Overcoming Dental Fear Effectively

Whether you’re ready to face your fear or getting prepared to see the dentist gradually, the following tips can help you stay relaxed during your appointment:

1. Schedule Your Appointment Wisely

Timing can make a big difference when you’re dealing with dental fear. Booking your appointment during quieter times of the day, such as early morning, can help you feel more at ease.

During these hours, the waiting room is usually less crowded, and the clinic is generally calmer. Fewer people around also means fewer distractions and less sensory stimulation from dental tools or background conversations, helping you ease into the environment more comfortably.

2. Bring a Support Person

It can be emotionally uplifting to have someone you can trust by your side. Whether it’s a family member or a close friend, a familiar face in the room can be a great comfort.

3. Communicate Openly with Your Dentist

Don’t be afraid to speak up. Let your Canley Heights dentist know about your fears, even if they feel minor or embarrassing.

Being upfront allows your dental team to tailor their approach to your specific care needs. We welcome these conversations.

We take extra time to explain procedures clearly, avoid surprises, and check in with you often. By working together, we can create a plan that prioritises your comfort and control throughout the visit.

4. Use Distraction Techniques

Listening to calming music through noise-cancelling headphones can help drown out triggering sounds. You can also try guided meditation or visualising a peaceful scene during your appointment.

5. Learn Relaxation and Breathing Techniques

Deep breathing, mindfulness, or simple muscle relaxation techniques can have a profound impact on how your body responds to stress. Practising these methods beforehand can help you feel more in control.

6. Set a Signal for Breaks

The sense of helplessness is one of the biggest causes of dental anxiety. Establishing a hand signal with your dentist gives you the power to pause treatment if you start feeling overwhelmed.

Whether it’s a raised hand or a small wave, this non-verbal cue acts as a safety net. Knowing that you can stop at any time reduces the pressure and helps you feel more in charge of your experience.

7. Consider Gradual Exposure

If your fear is intense, start with short visits. Just coming in to meet the dentist or getting a quick check-up without treatment can help desensitise your fear over time.

Overcome Dental Fear with your Trusted Canley Heights Dentist

It’s okay to be scared and to worry, which is part of the journey of coping with dental anxiety. Be kind to yourself.

When it comes to dental fear, your friendly Canley Heights dentist can help you deal with your concerns by giving the most suitable solution you ever need.

Your dental care partners at Canley Heights Dental Care aim to offer you a comfortable and pain-free dental experience whenever you visit us.

For more information, please call us on (02) 9199 9678 or book your appointment online.

We are located at 1/229 Canley Vale Road in Canley Heights.