The fear of the dentist remains a significant barrier to oral health care. It’s more then just pre-appointment jitters; it’s an anxiety that often leads people to delay visits for years, allowing dental problems to worsen. Modern dentistry is responding by focusing on the patient’s emotional experience, not just clinical technique.
During an interview, Dr. Fernando Soria, a specialist in aesthetic and reconstructive dentistry, periodontics and implantology, explained that while conscious sedation is effective, it’s not the only solution for dental fear. “Today,many clinics apply a more humane approach,empathetic and personalized so that each person feels safe from the moment they walk through the door,” he points out.
A cornerstone of this approach is empathetic,non-judgmental dialog.Feeling heard and understood can make a world of difference for patients with dental anxiety.
Distraction during treatment also plays a key role. “Allowing the patient to listen to their favorite music or watch a movie while the treatment is being carried out helps to distract the mind and reduce the perception of stress,” explains Dr. Soria. Choosing your own music or watching a movie can transform the dental experience, especially during longer procedures.
Pacing is another crucial factor. “Some patients just need to be given more time” assures the expert. Frequent breaks, advance warnings before each step, and a pre-agreed “stop button” – a verbal signal to halt treatment when needed – reinforce a sense of control and security.
“Simple breathing exercises before treatment or teaching the patient to control breathing can significantly reduce anxiety”
Simple relaxation or guided breathing techniques are also beneficial. “Including simple breathing exercises before treatment or teaching the patient to control their breathing while in the chair can significantly reduce anxiety,” explains Dr. Soria. The clinic’s physical environment also matters. Aromatherapy,warm lighting,and soft sounds create a less clinical,more welcoming atmosphere. Frequently enough undervalued, smell, light, and sound can be the difference between a stressful and a calmer visit.
These measures demonstrate that, in addition to conscious sedation, there are many tools to reduce fear: empathetic communication, informative visits without pressure, a relaxing environment, a pace adapted to the patient, relaxation techniques, and distractions like music or screens.Dr. Soria believes this comprehensive approach improves the patient experience, promotes treatment acceptance, and fosters long-term loyalty.
MYTHS ABOUT CONSCIOUS SEDATION
Dr. soria also addressed common myths surrounding conscious sedation, which can fuel mistrust. One widespread misconception is that “conscious sedation puts you completely asleep.” He clarifies that it’s not general anesthesia: the patient remains awake and able to communicate, but without fear or stress.
Another common fear is that it’s a dangerous technique. Dr. Soria clarifies: “It is indeed a very safe technique, provided that it is performed by qualified professionals and under the appropriate protocols,” adding that it’s used in millions of treatments annually.It’s also untrue that it’s reserved for complex procedures; it can be used in simple procedures when anxiety, phobia, or an intense gag reflex are present. Dr. Soria dispels the belief that you’re incapacitated all day after conscious sedation. With inhalation sedation using nitrous oxide, “the patient can return to his routine almost immediately, while only with oral or intravenous sedation is rest and accompanying people recommended,” he concludes.
*The contents are prepared by journalists specialized in health and endorsed by a committee of top-level experts. Though, we recommend that the reader consult any health-related questions with a healthcare professional.
