Strategies for Managing Anxious Patients

Author: Advanced Hygienist Bianca

Dental anxiety refers to the fear or stress associated with dental visits, varying from mild unease to severe phobia. Common causes of dental anxiety include fear of pain, negative past experiences, feeling of helplessness or loss of control, and embarrassment about dental health.

Managing anxious patients requires a thoughtful and personalized approach. Dental anxiety is a common issue that can significantly impact a patient's willingness to seek treatment and adhere to necessary dental care. As a dental hygienist, addressing these anxieties effectively is key to providing quality care and ensuring positive patient experiences.

Management Strategies

1. Build Trust and Establish Rapport: Establishing a strong foundation of trust with patients is essential. Listening to their concerns and acknowledging their fears is crucial. Demonstrating empathy and understanding can help alleviate apprehension associated with dental visits.
2. Effective Communication: Procedures should be explained in straightforward terms, avoiding technical dental language whenever possible. Inform patients about what to expect during the treatment, including potential sensations and noises. Encourage them to ask questions and address any uncertainties they may have.
3. Creating a Relaxing Environment: The atmosphere of the practice significantly impacts patient anxiety. Maintaining a calm and inviting environment is important. Incorporating soothing elements such as calming music, pleasant scents, and comfortable seating can be beneficial. Ensuring that the staff is friendly, welcoming, and sensitive to patient needs is also crucial.
4. Utilising Distraction Techniques: Distraction techniques can effectively divert patients' attention away from their anxiety. Tools such as music, television screens, or calming imagery can engage patients and reduce stress during procedures.
5. Respecting Patient Autonomy: Respect the patient's autonomy by involving them in decision-making regarding their treatment plan. Offer options and explain the pros and cons of each. When patients feel they have some control over their care, it can reduce feelings of helplessness and increase their comfort level.
6. Behaviour Management Techniques: Incorporate behaviour management techniques such as controlled breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation. Teach patients these techniques so they can use them during appointments to help manage their anxiety levels.
7. Following Up and Encouraging Feedback: Following up with patients after procedures to check on their well-being is important. Encouraging feedback about their experience and being open to suggestions for improvement can enhance patient satisfaction and reduce anxiety for future visits.
8. Offering Sedation Options: For patients with severe anxiety or phobia, sedation can be a valuable option. Discuss different sedation methods, such as nitrous oxide, oral sedatives, or IV sedation, depending on the patient's level of anxiety and the complexity of the procedure. Sedation can help patients relax and feel more comfortable during treatment.
9. Considering Behavioural Therapy: For patients with severe and persistent dental anxiety, referral to a psychologist or behavioural therapist specializing in dental phobia may be beneficial. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) techniques can help patients address and overcome their fears associated with dental procedures.

By implementing these strategies, dental practitioners can create a supportive and patient-centred environment that minimizes anxiety and promotes positive dental experiences. Each patient is unique, so tailoring the approach to individual needs and preferences is key to successful anxiety management in dental practice.