Understanding and Overcoming Dental Anxiety: A Guide for Patients

Dental anxiety is a common issue that affects both adults and children. In fact, according to the 2025 State of America’s Oral Health and Wellness Report, more than 1 in 5 Americans (21%) have avoided dental care due to fear. It's natural to feel anxious about potentially uncomfortable situations, but avoiding dental care often leads to poorer oral health, pain and more costly and complex dental procedures in the future. That’s why it’s so important for people with dental anxiety to confront it.  

In this blog post, we'll explore what dental anxiety is, its causes, and how you can manage it effectively. 

What is Dental Anxiety? 

Dental anxiety refers to the fear or stress associated with visiting the dentist or undergoing dental procedures. This anxiety can be triggered by various factors, including past negative experiences, fear of pain, and concerns about oral health or hygiene.  

Causes of Dental Anxiety 

The causes of dental anxiety vary from person to person. Common factors include: 

• Past negative experiences at the dentist, especially during childhood. 

• General tendency to be anxious. 

• Concerns or shame about poor oral health or hygiene. 

• Anxiety about paying for treatment. 

• Fear of possible pain, needles, dental drills, or gagging. 

• Embarrassment regarding the state of one's teeth. 

• Fear of the sounds and smells of the dental office. 

• Generalized anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 

Dental anxiety signs and symptoms 

The signs and symptoms of dental anxiety can range from mild to extreme and are not always easy to identify. However, if you have any of the following issues before or during a dental appointment, then you are likely experiencing dental anxiety: 

• Racing heartbeat

• Sweating

• Signs of stress, including panicking or crying

• Trouble sleeping the night before a dental appointment

• Shortness of breath

• Changes in mood or temper

• Difficulty concentrating

• Excessive worrying

• Feeling weak or tired

• Having the urge to avoid whatever is causing you to feel anxious

Impact of Dental Anxiety 

Avoiding dental care due to anxiety can lead to poorer oral health, pain, and more costly and complex dental procedures in the future. It also extends past just oral health, influencing various aspects of life, such as overall health, career opportunities, social interactions, and self-esteem¹. It's crucial for individuals with dental anxiety to confront their fears to maintain good oral health. 

Managing Dental Anxiety 

There are several strategies to manage dental anxiety effectively: 

1. Communication with Your Dental Team: Be open with your dentist about your concerns. Dental professionals are experienced in dealing with anxiety and can create a relaxing environment for patients. Many dentists have their own strategies for easing their patients’ fears and may offer you pillows, blankets, a warm neck wrap, and more to help you relax. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions about any procedure that is causing you to worry. Don't hesitate to ask questions to eliminate fear of the unknown and discuss care options with your dentist. The dental team wants to help you be comfortable and relaxed.

2. Relaxation Techniques: There are several relaxation techniques you can practice while visiting the dentist that can help ease your anxiety. Try deep breathing exercises like counting your breaths, inhaling and exhaling slowly, or practice body scans where you concentrate on relaxing your muscles one body part at a time from head to toe. Put your imagination to use to feel more relaxed in the technique of guided imagery.

3. Distractions: Use distractions like headphones, stress balls, or thinking about your "happy place" to take your mind off the procedure. Some dental offices offer television or music as distractions.

4. Support from Friends and Family: Bring a trusted friend or family member with you to the appointment, if visitors are allowed.

5. Scheduling and Diet: Schedule your appointment at a time when you're under less stress, such as early morning. Avoid sugary foods and caffeine before your appointment, as they can trigger nervousness. 

Children and Dental Anxiety 

Children also experience dental anxiety, with more than 1 in 4 (26%) parents reporting that their child feels anxious about cleanings and exams. This is especially true for children between the ages of 6 and 12. Common reasons for children's dental anxiety include anticipating pain and discomfort, fear of needles, and the sights, sounds, and smells of the dental office. 

Helping Your Child Overcome Dental Anxiety

As a parent, you can help your child manage and overcome their fears. We’ve included some of our dental anxiety management tips so you can help your children have a positive experience at every dental visit.

1. Take them to the dentist early on: It’s recommended children visit a dentist when their first tooth appears or by their first birthday.

2. Visit a pediatric dentist: Pediatric dentists are uniquely trained in caring for children’s oral health, including helping them feel safe and comfortable during visits. You can find a pediatric dentist covered by Delta Dental plans by using our Dentist Finder and selecting "Pediatric Dentist" under specialty.

3. Let them bring something that comforts them such as a toy or blanket: This helps your child feel more comfortable during their entire visit.

4. Speak positively about dental visits: The way you speak about the dentist can directly impact how your child sees the dentist; so it’s important that you don’t speak poorly about dental visits.

5. Focus on practicing good oral health habits at home: When children are familiar with brushing, flossing, and the importance of oral health, it helps them have fewer oral health issues and more-positive experiences at the dentist.

6. Give positive reinforcement: Before, during, and after dental visits, give your child praise for being able to take the steps required to have a healthy smile.

Final Thoughts

Remember, you're not alone in dealing with dental anxiety. Communicate with your dental team, try out the strategies mentioned above, and continue to schedule regular checkups to maintain great oral health care habits.