What Are the Common Signs of Dental Anxiety?
Common signs of dental anxiety include physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, sweating, or a dry mouth when thinking about or preparing for a dental appointment. Patients may feel nervous or restless or have difficulty sitting still before their appointment. Some may experience fear or dread, often accompanied by a sense of impending danger, even when there is no immediate threat. These symptoms can cause significant stress, making it difficult for patients to relax and enter the dentist's office.
In addition to physical signs, dental anxiety can manifest emotionally, with patients avoiding dental visits altogether. This avoidance may be due to a fear of pain, past negative experiences, or a general sense of helplessness in a dental chair. Other signs include frequent cancellations of appointments, excessive worrying days or weeks before a visit, or trouble focusing on anything other than the upcoming appointment. Recognizing these signs early can help both patients and dental professionals take steps to manage and reduce anxiety for a more comfortable experience.
