Dental anxiety is excessive fear or stress related to dental procedures. It often starts long before the actual treatment and sometimes just by thinking about it.🧠 Psychologically, it can be explained by classical conditioning:Bad past experiences (especially in childhood) become automatic fear response in the future, even without pain.

What is Dental Anxiety in Psychology?

As a child, I always brought a long handkerchief to the dentist.Why?So I could cover my eyes and avoid seeing the tools. The anxiety started before the procedure even began. Years later, I learned this wasn't me being dramatic. It was a real psychological response.

A Personal Story: The Power of a Handkerchief

Consider it if you:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Often cancel appointments last-minute</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Feel panic or cry while waiting</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Haven’t visited a dentist in years</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Lose sleep or feel sick before a dental visit</li></ul>You can look for dentists trained in anxiety care or ask for minimal-invasive procedures. Mental health support is also a strong option.

When to Get Specialized Help

Fear of dentists is valid, and you're not the only one. What matters is acknowledging it and taking steps. No matter how small, you are capable to deal with it.You deserve dental care that heals both your teeth and your peace of mind.

You’re Not Alone and Help Exists

💡 Identify Your TriggersIs it the tools, sounds, smell, or a memory?💨 Breathe and RelaxTry the 4-count breathing: Inhale for 4 seconds, hold, exhale slowly. Do this before and during the visit.🗣️ Communicate Your FearsTell your dentist or companion. A good dentist will adapt and reassure you.👯 Bring a FriendHaving someone you trust nearby can ease your nerves.🏥 Choose the Right ClinicLook for clinics with soft lighting, calming music, or sedation options.🚑Seek Professional HelpIf it affects your life, talking to a psychologist or therapist can really help.

How to Deal with Dental Anxiety

It’s not just a childhood thing. Adults are also vulnerable, especially if they:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Had traumatic dental visits as kids</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Never developed trust with dental professionals</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Feel a loss of control during treatment</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Ashamed of their dental condition</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Fear being judged by dentists</li></ul>📊 A study <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16669482/">(Armfield, Spencer & Stewart, 2006) </a>found that 16% of adults experience moderate to high levels of dental anxiety.

Why Adults Still Experience It

Cemas dan takut setiap kali ke dokter gigi? Entah karena alatnya atau vibenya? Kenali dental anxiety dan temukan cara mengatasinya di artikel ini!

You’re Not Alone and Help Exists

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