Recent surveys from the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry found that 71% of women and 58% of men agreed that teeth are the first thing they notice in a potential partner.

When thinking about everyday scenarios such as socializing with friends, going on dates or a first job interview, we want to be as confident in ourselves as we can… Right? The first step to showing off your confidence is your body language, aka your SMILE! 

What is Dental Anxiety?

Dental anxiety is fear or stress that is associated with the concept of a dental setting. This means, even the idea of getting a small filling may scare someone away from scheduling their next dental appointment. The problem with that is the dental damage that will occur after that small cavity becomes a large one, eating away at the teeth until it becomes rotten (and stinky)! To be confident, we need to look and feel the part! That means, taking the necessary steps to improve your oral health so you can show off that wonderful, confident, smile!

Dental Anxiety sheds light in many different ways, here are the most common symptoms:

• Crying 
• Sweating 
• Racing Heart Beat
• Hostility 
• Heart Palpitations 
• Low Blood Pressure 
• Panic Attacks
• Fainting  

What Helps with Dental Anxiety?

1. Always communicate with your dentist how you are feeling!
2. Try breathing exercises. 
3. Talk out loud about your feelings. 
4. Find a dentist you are comfortable with.
5. Take advantage of your dentist’s coping mechanisms they provide for patients like you.