Nervous About the Dentist? You’re Not Alone.

For some people, making a dental appointment is easy.

For others, simply picking up the phone can create anxiety.

Maybe you’re worried about discomfort. Perhaps you’ve had a difficult dental experience in the past. Or maybe you’ve avoided the dentist for several years and feel embarrassed about the condition of your teeth.

Whatever the reason, you’re not alone.

Dental anxiety is common

The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research reports that nearly 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience moderate to high dental fear or anxiety that can interfere with seeking oral healthcare.

So avoiding the dentist isn’t necessarily a matter of simply “not caring” about dental health.

For some patients, anxiety is a genuine obstacle.

Start by talking about your concerns

One of the simplest steps can be telling your dental team what makes you nervous.

Are you worried about pain?

Do you dislike uncertainty?

Have you had a bad experience previously?

Are you embarrassed that you’ve waited so long?

Knowing what concerns you can help your dental team communicate more clearly and explain what to expect.

You don’t have to solve everything at once

If you’ve avoided dental care for years, your first appointment doesn’t have to mean making every treatment decision immediately.

An examination can be an opportunity to understand what’s happening, discuss your concerns and learn about your options.

The important thing is taking the first step.

At Brilliant Dental Care in Bellevue, patients can discuss their concerns openly with their dental team and work toward an appropriate plan for their individual needs.

If dental anxiety has been keeping you away, don’t let embarrassment prevent you from asking for help.

Contact Brilliant Dental Care and start with a conversation about your concerns.