6 Tips for Managing Dental Anxiety

Prioritizing your oral health is an essential part of maintaining your overall well-being. Our goal is to help you take care of your smile with confidence—without fear or hesitation. Remember, dental visits are centered around you and the long-term benefits to your health. Keeping this perspective in mind can be a powerful step toward overcoming dental anxiety.

At Hygge Laser Dentistry, your comfort is our top priority. We understand that dental visits can sometimes bring anxiety, and we're here to support you every step of the way. To help you feel more at ease, we’ve put together some simple tips to manage dental anxiety and make your visit as smooth and stress-free as possible.

6 TIPS FOR MANAGING AND OVERCOMING DENTAL ANXIETY

# 1 Acknowledge Your Fears

The first step in managing dental anxiety is identifying exactly what is causing it. Ask yourself, “What am I afraid of?” Being honest about your feelings is key to understanding and addressing them in a healthy way.

Consider these questions:

• Is it the discomfort of keeping your mouth open for a long time?

• Are you worried about pain?

• Does the sound of dental tools make you uneasy?

• Do you feel uncertain about the dentist or the treatment plan?

Pinpointing the source of your anxiety makes it easier to find effective ways to cope and allows your dental team to support you better.

# 2 Discuss Your Anxiety With Your Dentist

At our practice, Dr. Gordon along with our wonderful team of dental professionals, are dedicated to making sure you have an exceptional experience. When you arrive for your appointment or consultation, we warmly invite you to share any questions, anxieties, or concerns with our dentists. Our caring team is here to provide the personalized care and special attention you deserve, helping to make your visit as calm and comfortable as possible. 

At Hygge Laser Dentistry, we offer modern dental techniques using laser dentistry. This alternative to traditional dental tools, such as drills and scalpels, offers a more comfortable patient experience.  

# 3 Familiarize Yourself With Your Surroundings

Feeling anxious when stepping into a new environment is natural. Arriving a bit early for your appointment is a great way to give yourself some time to get comfortable in our office. Plus, taking a moment to chat with the friendly office staff can really help you relax and feel more at home before your visit. 

Don’t hesitate to ask questions! It’s always a great idea to chat with your dentist about the various tools and treatments that will be used during your procedure. Feel free to inquire about the technology, too! If the tray of tools worries you or if the sounds are a bit unsettling, don’t hesitate to ask about which tools will be used, what they’re called, and why they’re important. Understanding what’s around you, along with knowing your dentist's expertise with those tools, can really help make the whole experience feel much less intimidating.

# 4 Bring A Friend With You

Think about inviting a close friend or family member to join you for your appointment! Whether they wait for you in the lobby or sit with you in the room, having a trusted companion by your side can really make you feel safer and more relaxed. If you're having a procedure that involves sedation dentistry, it's usually a good idea to have someone with you to drive you home afterward. A supportive person nearby can help you feel much more at ease and comfortable throughout the experience.

# 5 Practice Good Dental Hygiene

Maintaining good dental and oral hygiene between visits can enhance your confidence and awareness about your oral health, creating a more positive atmosphere when you arrive at the dental office.

• Brush and floss twice daily. 

• Use mouthwash. 

• Avoid tobacco. 

• Rinse your mouth with water after eating or drinking foods or drinks that are acidic or high in sugar.

# 6 Know That You are in Control

Dental anxiety can sometimes arise from feeling a bit discouraged about your oral hygiene. But don't worry! You can conquer that fear by creating healthy habits starting today. If you’re ever unsure about whether your oral and dental hygiene practices are on track, feel free to reach out to us or chat with Dr. Gordon during your next visit. We're here to help you feel confident and empowered in your daily routine!

Experience the Difference of Comfortable, Patient-Centered Laser Dentistry at Hygge in Ballard, Seattle

We believe every dental visit should be centered around you. Our patient-first approach ensures that you feel informed, supported, and empowered throughout your dental care journey.

Our expert team provides gentle, comfortable dental care using advanced laser dentistry technology, minimizing discomfort and reducing recovery time. If you ever feel uneasy or experience discomfort during your visit, just let us know—your comfort is our top priority.

We also offer personalized sedation dentistry options to help ease anxiety and create a relaxing environment. Whether you're here for a routine exam, a laser gum treatment, laser teeth whitening, or a more advanced procedure, you can count on us for compassionate care and exceptional results.

Contact Hygge Laser Dentistry today to schedule your appointment and discover how our skilled team and advanced laser technology can transform your dental experience.