Managing Nervous Patients in Dentistry

Author: Advanced Hygienist Naz

Dental anxiety, or dental fear, is estimated to affect approximately 36% of the population, with a further 12% suffering from extreme dental fear. This anxiety can have serious repercussions in terms of an individual's oral health, and it is considered to be a significant barrier to dental attendance resulting in poor attendance. This is known as dental avoidance and can lead to poor oral health or the necessity for specialist dental care. 

Why are people afraid of dental care professionals/dentists? 

The research evidence suggests that the causes of dental fear, dental anxiety or dental phobia are related to exogenous factors such as direct learning from traumatic experiences, vicarious learning through significant others and the media, and endogenous factors such as inheritance and personality traits. 

Top Techniques to Manage Nervous Patients

Create a Comfortable Environment

• Welcoming staff: A kind, understanding approach helps ease anxiety.
• Soothing practice setup: Relaxing music, and a calm atmosphere.
• Non-rushed approach: Give patients time to adjust before treatment starts.

Communication & Trust-Building

• Listen actively: Allow patients to express their fears. 
• Explain procedures in simple terms: Use calm and non-technical/medical language. 
• Set expectations: Let patients know what to expect at every step.
• Use a signal system: Allow them to raise a hand if they need a break.

Relaxation & Distraction Techniques

• Deep breathing exercises to reduce anxiety. 
• Distractions like music, TV, or podcasts during their treatment.
• Comfort items (relaxing balls, weighted blankets, pillow, clear safety glasses) to help relaxation.