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Conquering Dental Anxiety: Creating Positive Experiences for All Ages

Writer's picture: Encompass Dental and WellnessEncompass Dental and Wellness
Dental Implant

Don’t you just love the calming sound of a dental drill or the delightful feeling of a needle poked into your gums? Exactly, no one does!


If you’re like most people, dental visits make you anxious, and you're not alone. Dental anxiety is a common issue that prevents many from seeking the care they need, leading to more significant oral health problems over time.




The Scope of Dental Anxiety


Dental anxiety affects people across various demographics, with some groups experiencing higher levels of fear:


  • General Population:** Approximately 36% of people in the U.S. experience some degree of dental anxiety, with 12% having extreme fear.

  • Children:** Around 20% of children suffer from dental anxiety, often stemming from early traumatic experiences with poor dental providers.

  • Teens and Young Adults:** Dental anxiety tends to peak during adolescence, with studies showing about 15% of teens are highly anxious about dental visits.

  • Adults:** Women are generally more likely to experience dental anxiety than men, with 49% of women reporting moderate to severe anxiety compared to 36% of men.


Child Anxiety and Early Dental Trauma


Childhood experiences play a crucial role in shaping one’s perception of dental care. Negative experiences during early dental visits can lead to long-lasting anxiety. Children who encounter rough or inattentive dental providers are more likely to develop a fear of dentists that persists into adulthood. This fear can prevent them from seeking regular dental care, leading to poor oral health outcomes.


Tips to Overcome Dental Anxiety


Overcoming dental anxiety is essential for maintaining good oral health. Here are some tips to help ease your fears and ensure a positive dental experience:


  1. Communicate Your Fears: Let your dentist know about your anxiety. A good dental team will listen to your concerns and tailor their approach to make you feel comfortable.

  2. Choose the Right Dentist: Look for a dentist who specializes in treating anxious patients. Read reviews and ask for recommendations to find a provider known for their compassionate care.

  3. Bring a Comfort Item: Bring something that makes you feel relaxed, like a stress ball, headphones for listening to calming music, or a favorite blanket.

  4. Practice Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing exercises, meditation, and visualization can help calm your nerves before and during your appointment.

  5. Consider Sedation Dentistry: For those with severe anxiety, sedation dentistry can be a game-changer. Options like nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedatives, and IV sedation can help you relax during procedures.

  6. Explore Laser Dentistry: Encompass offers options like laser dentistry, which can be a needle-free and drill-free alternative for some procedures, reducing discomfort and fear.

  7. Schedule Regular Visits: Regular dental visits can help desensitize you to the experience. The more you go, the more familiar and less intimidating it becomes.


Our Commitment to Your Comfort


At Encompass Dental, we understand dental anxiety and are committed to creating a welcoming atmosphere where you feel supported every step of the way. Our team listens to your fears, answers your questions, and customizes your care to ease your worries. We go above and beyond to ensure a pain-free and comfortable experience, using the latest technology and techniques to minimize discomfort.


For those with severe anxiety, we offer sedation options to help you relax. Additionally, our cutting-edge laser dentistry provides an alternative to traditional drills and needles, ensuring a gentler experience.


Together, let's conquer dental anxiety and ensure a positive experience for you. Don’t let fear keep you from achieving optimal oral health. Contact us today to schedule your visit and take the first step towards a healthier, happier smile.


Encompass Dental is your trusted family dentist in Auburndale, FL. Renowned as the best dentist in Auburndale, FL, Dr. Thurston, Dr. Duke, and Dr. Vik are commitment to comprehensive dental care extends to every member of your family. At Encompass Dental and Wellness, we go beyond traditional dentistry, offering specialized services as a cosmetic dentist in Auburndale Fl and implant dentist in Auburndale, FL.

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Welcome to Encompass Dental is a Private Practice and your premier laser dentist in Auburndale, FL, offering comprehensive dental care with a focus on your family's well-being. As a trusted Family Dentist in Auburndale, FL, we are dedicated to providing top-quality services that cater to patients of all ages, ensuring healthy and beautiful smiles. At Encompass Dental, we take pride in being your go-to dentist in Auburndale, FL, offering a wide range of treatments and procedures, including Invisalign, root canals, teeth whitening, and implant Dentist in Auburndale FL. Our cutting-edge techniques and advanced technology ensure world-class treatment and exceptional results. We understand the importance of restful sleep, which is why we specialize in addressing sleep apnea, insomnia, and narcolepsy concerns. Our expertise in sleep-related issues allows us to provide effective solutions, including CPAP alternatives, to help you reclaim your restful nights. As the best dentist in Auburndale, FL, we are your partner in achieving a confident smile and offer cosmetic dentistry services like smile makeovers. With compassion and care, we provide personalized treatments, including sedation dentistry, ensuring your comfort throughout your dental experience. For those in need of dental implants or dentures in Auburndale, FL, we have the expertise to restore your smile's beauty and functionality. Additionally, if you're in Winter Haven, FL, our dental implant services can address missing teeth, enhancing your oral health. Encompass Dental is more than just a dental practice; it is a place of care, compassion, and community. Our experienced team continuously reinvents and grows to meet the diverse wellness needs of our patients. For VA Community Care or VA Dental for 100 disabled veterns, we respect on honor our country's Veterans and are now proud to be a VA Dental Care Provider. We harness the true essence of humanity in complete dental and wellness care. Experience the difference between personalized and cutting-edge dentistry - your path to a radiant smile and optimal oral health starts here. We also accept carecredit or Care Credit which allows interest-free financing options. Our Dentists; Dr. Thurston and Dr. Duke are dedicated to delivering compassionate care to all. Dr Thurston founded EDW in 1980 and since begun to pass his in-depth knowledge to Dr Duke.

Dentist Near Me? Our principle location is at 308 East Park Street Auburndale, FL 33823

To learn more about how Encompass Dental and Wellness can serve you and your family, contact us at (863) 967-7548 or email us at info@edwcare.com

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