Dental anxiety is more common than many people realize. If the thought of sitting in a dental chair makes your heart race or leads you to cancel appointments, you are not alone.Â
At Exceptional Dentistry of the Golden Isles, patients are cared for by top-tier professionals like Dr. Robert Lancaster, a Brunswick native, Army veteran, and graduate of the Dental College of Georgia, where he finished second in his class. Patients also benefit from the expertise of Dr. Angela Britt, Georgia’s only dentist to hold both AACD Accreditation and LVI Fellowship credentials.Â
Avoiding the dentist can lead to serious oral health issues and take a toll on your confidence, but with skilled, compassionate care, fear doesn’t have to hold you back.
What Causes Dental Anxiety?
There are many reasons someone might develop anxiety about dental visits. Common triggers include:
- Past negative or painful dental experiences
- Fear of needles, drills, or pain
- Feelings of helplessness or loss of control
- Embarrassment about the condition of their teeth
This type of anxiety can range from mild uneasiness to severe dental phobia, where even scheduling an appointment feels overwhelming.
How Anxiety Impacts Oral Health
When regular cleanings and necessary treatments are avoided due to fear, problems that could have been easily addressed often become worse. Some of the long-term consequences of untreated dental issues include:
- Tooth decay and gum disease
- Persistent bad breath or infections
- Tooth loss and shifting teeth
- Difficulty eating or speaking
- A decline in self-confidence
Postponing care can also limit cosmetic treatment options for those hoping to enhance their smile.
Sedation Dentistry Makes Treatment Easier
For patients in Brunswick, GA, sedation dentistry provides a safe, effective solution to help ease dental anxiety. Sedation options vary depending on the level of fear and the procedures involved. Some of the most commonly used methods include:
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to promote relaxation during treatment
- Oral sedation in pill form to reduce fear and anxiety
- IV sedation for deeper relaxation during more complex procedures
These options allow patients to feel calm and comfortable, often with little or no memory of the appointment. Sedation dentistry also allows more work to be done in fewer visits, which is ideal for those with busy schedules or complex treatment needs.
Discover a Calmer Dental Experience in Brunswick, GA
Dental anxiety should never stand between you and the smile you deserve. With sedation dentistry and a compassionate team by your side, even the most nervous patients can feel at ease throughout their care. Whether you are looking to improve your health, boost your confidence, or finally achieve the smile you’ve always wanted, it all begins with a conversation. Schedule your consultation with Exceptional Dentistry of the Golden Isles today by calling 912-264-5550.
