Do you avoid visiting the dentist out of anxiety and fear?
Visiting the dentist can be a difficult and stressful experience for many patients. Some patients may even avoid scheduling their routine oral exams because of their dental anxiety.
If you struggle with a fear of the dentist, you are not alone, and at the office of Rogers dentist Dr. Heather Adams, we understand. We strive to provide our patients with the most comfortable and welcoming environment where patients feel at home. Through patient education and relationship-based dentistry, Dr. Heather Adams helps patients understand and find ways to overcome their dental anxiety. In fact, dental anxiety is one of the dental concerns that Dr. Adams can resolve.
Solutions for Dental Anxiety in Rogers, AR
We provide individualized treatment plans and take the time to get to know our patients. Our one-on-one dental health exams include a personal consultation with Dr. Adams who will listen to your concerns, and cosmetic goals, and answer any questions you may have about your oral health.
Dr. Adams will explain all the necessary treatments so that you have a thorough understanding of what you will experience. We empower our patients so that they can make informed decisions about their oral health.
For patients who have had a negative past experience, or experience dental anxiety that prevents them from visiting the dentist, Dr. Adams offers sedation dentistry. Sedation dentistry can help patients to feel completely calm and relaxed during their visit to our dentist’s office. Patients remain alert but will have little to no memory of their time spent in the dentist’s chair.
We offer nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation to patients. Nitrous oxide is a gas administered through a mask that provides pain-free treatment for patients as soon as it is used. As soon as we remove the mask, the gas no longer takes effect. For oral conscious sedation, patients take a pill before treatment.
Patients will remain conscious but feel totally relaxed during their dental procedure. We can use these treatment methods for complex dental surgeries or routine examinations, depending on the patient’s comfort or anxiety level. Our dentists want patients of all ages to feel comfortable and welcomed when they visit our office.
Request a Consultation
Whether you have been avoiding the dentist due to dental anxiety, or you are looking for a more personal dental care experience, Dr. Adams can help you restore and enhance your natural, healthy smile. Taking care of your smile can help you enjoy a better quality of life. Routine dental exams should not be avoided.
If you have a fear of the dentist, contact the office of Dr. Adams to learn more about how we can help you manage your anxiety, and improve your smile. We invite patients of all ages to experience the difference that high-quality, compassionate dentistry can make in their lives. Contact our Bentonville, AR dentist office at (479) 431-4212, or request your next in-person oral health consultation online. If you have any more questions about your treatment options, feel free to ask us. We will be happy to assist you.
Fear of the Dentist FAQs
What will happen if I avoid dentist appointments due to fear of the dentist?
It is impossible to properly care for your teeth without the help of a dentist. We understand that many people suffer from fear of the dentist and we want to help them receive the dental care they need. If you avoid the dentist, your teeth, gums, underlying bone, and overall health will suffer. Dr. Adams will suggest using sedation dentistry methods to help you receive treatments and avoid major problems from developing.
How can I prepare for my dentist appointments?
If you suffer from dental anxiety or fear of the dentist, we suggest finding ways to help deal with it. This may include meditation, yoga, music therapy, or counseling. Talking through your feelings towards dental care is proven to be helpful for people who have had bad dental experiences in the past. You may also bring a comfort item to the appointment such as a weighted blanket. We offer a warm, welcoming, and non-judgmental atmosphere to help patients deal with their fear.
Can I drive myself home after the appointment?
If you choose to use sedation dentistry to get through your dentist appointments due to fear and anxiety, then you may need to get a ride to and from your dentist appointment. Oral conscious sedation involves taking a prescription medication and you will not be able to operate a vehicle. The medication will be fully worn off after 24 hours. However, nitrous oxide is administered through a mask and as soon as it is removed, the effects will wear off. You should be able to drive home after your appointment.