people beautiful smile with coffee, North Peace Dental and Implant Centre, Fort St John, BC, Canada

Caring for Dental Anxiety

Anxious about dentistry? That is okay, and you are not alone.

Dental Anxiety

It’s okay. You are not alone.

Are you terrified to visit the dentist? Have you had a negative experience in the past that still haunts you? Are you delaying necessary dental care because the thought of stepping into a dental office fills you with dread? You’re not alone. Research shows that 75% of Canadians experience some level of dental-related fear, with at least 30% avoiding dental care altogether due to this anxiety. This widespread fear can stem from past trauma, fear of pain, or simply the anticipation of the unknown. Understanding that you're not alone in these feelings is the first step towards seeking help and finding a compassionate dental team that can support you through your care.

Dental Anxiety_North Peace Dental and Implant Centre_Fort St John, BC, Canada

Caring for Dental Anxiety

Often, anxiety can be managed with a collaborative effort

At North Peace Dental and Implant Centre, we are experienced in working with patients with various levels of dental anxiety using a selection of calming techniques. We ensure you are well-informed throughout your procedure, keeping you aware of each step to avoid surprises, and proceed at a pace that is adjusted to your comfort level. If you experience discomfort or have a question, let us know by raising your hand so we can give you a break or to answer your questions. We also guide you through deep breathing exercises to help regulate your heart rate and reduce anxiety. Your comfort and peace of mind are our top priorities.

Caring for Dental Anxiety_North Peace Dental and Implant Centre, Fort St John, BC, Canada

Oral Sedation for Dental Anxiety

Other times, mild oral sedation can be very helpful

For patients with more severe anxiety, we find that oral sedation provides a better experience for them. If thinking and listening to dental discussions already makes you nervous, ask us about oral sedation. Oral sedation uses medication to induce a mild state of sedation, during which the patient is not fully asleep but relaxed enough to not be bothered by the discomfort, smell, noises, or mental stress associated with the procedure. Oral sedation does not replace freezing; therefore, we would still ensure that the patient is fully frozen for the procedure required. Patients who receive oral sedation often believe that they slept through the procedure, even though they are fully awake. Oral sedation poses minimal risk of medical complication and is suitable for majority of patients with dental needs. See our website for more information about oral sedation (sleep dentistry).

Oral sedation for dental anxiety_North Peace Dental and Implant Centre_Fort St John, BC, Canada