Fear of the dentist – what to do when an appointment becomes a burden?
Fear is widespread – especially when there is already a dental emergency. Many people feel uncomfortable before a dental visit. Some are tense, others are very worried about potential pain or remember unpleasant experiences from the past.
The situation becomes particularly difficult when a dental emergency has already occurred: severe toothache, swelling, an injury, or another acute problem. This often creates an internal conflict:
"I need help – but I'm afraid of the treatment."
It is important to know: you do not need to be completely free of fear to seek dental help. The first step is often to talk openly about your concerns.
Speak openly about your fear
Many patients try to hide their fear. Openness helps. Inform the practice when making the appointment that you are worried or afraid of the treatment. During the appointment, the following also applies:
- Ask questions.
- Say when you feel uncomfortable.
- Ask for an explanation of the next steps.
- Agree on a signal for a break if needed.
Your treatment team can better address your needs if they know what is on your mind.
Reducing fear – small steps can help
Fear activates the body. Breathing often becomes faster and shallower, muscles tense up, and the feeling of loss of control increases. A simple breathing technique can help you regain some calm:
- Inhale slowly through your nose.
- Then, consciously exhale for a longer duration.
- Repeat these calm breaths several times.
A prolonged exhalation can help the body slowly recover from the stress response. The goal is not for the fear to disappear immediately. It is about regaining some safety and control.
Don't wait – an emergency should be clarified despite the fear
Fear can cause people to postpone a dentist visit. Especially with acute symptoms, however, this can lead to the situation worsening. A prompt dental assessment is particularly important in cases of:
- severe or increasing toothache
- swelling in the mouth or face area
- secondary bleeding
- tooth injuries after an accident
- knocked-out or broken teeth
The first step does not have to be the treatment. It often begins with a conversation.
Dental anxiety in children – parents can influence a lot
Children experience the dentist visit differently than adults. They look to their parents or accompanying persons for cues. They perceive not only words, but also mood, body language, and insecurity. Therefore, the way the dentist is talked about is particularly important.
Well-intentioned – but sometimes unconsciously counterproductive
An everyday example: If you go to the supermarket with your child, you probably wouldn't say:
"You don't need to be afraid, the supermarket isn't dangerous."
Why? Because the child might not have even thought that a situation could be dangerous. It can be similar at the dentist. Statements like:
"You don't need to be afraid."
"It definitely won't hurt."
are meant lovingly. However, they can unconsciously bring the thought of fear or pain into focus in the first place. A child might wonder: "Why should I be afraid?" "Why should it hurt?"
Better: speak calmly, positively, and matter-of-factly
More helpful are phrases like:
- "The dentist will look at your teeth."
- "She will explain to you what is being done."
- "You can ask questions at any time."
- "We are going together."
The dentist visit should be conveyed as a normal everyday situation whenever possible.
Tips for parents and accompanying persons
- Remain calm and provide security.
- Do not tell your child about your own negative dentist experiences.
- Use positive and neutral words.
- Take your child's worries seriously.
- Avoid exaggerated attempts at reassurance.
- Do not promise that absolutely nothing will be unpleasant.
- Encourage your child to ask questions.
Supportive, trusting company can help build positive experiences with dentistry.
The most important step: talk about it openly
Whether for adults or children – fear is not unusual. If your treatment team knows that you or your child are feeling insecure, they can respond better. An open conversation builds trust and helps to overcome a difficult situation together.
zahnarzthilfe.ch – Guidance in a dental emergency. This information is intended to help you find the next step in a stressful situation. It does not replace a personal examination, consultation, or treatment by a dentist. In case of severe symptoms or a suspected dental emergency, please contact a dental practice or the responsible dental emergency service promptly.