SEDATION & ANXIETY CONTROL OPTIONS
Why Us?
Helpful Distractions
Our dentists are specially trained to provide effective and stress-free treatments to patients. Some people experience anxiety about their dental appointments. To help relieve anxiety in those cases, our team applies specific techniques that help distract away from the procedure. These distractions are effective at relieving anxiety and helping create a smoother and more enjoyable dental experience.
Gentle Approach
Our dentists take their time to ensure patients receive the best care and cleaning while being extra gentle for a positive and stress-free experience. Whether there is special sensitivity or a routine dental hygiene appointment, all patients are treated with a gentle approach, including offering sedation. Visiting the dental clinic will leave you feeling fresh and healthy, without the pain or stress.
Pre-Treatment Stress Reduction
For some people, the anticipation of a dental appointment can cause excessive stress. Some may experience sleepless nights, stomach pains, and high levels of anxiety leading up to an appointment. Our clinic offers effective methods to help reduce anticipatory anxiety. They are evidence-based and have been shown to help greatly reduce pre-treatment stress.
We Listen. We Care. We Support.
We believe in creating a judgment-free space where you feel heard and supported. Our Maple Ridge team takes the time to understand your concerns, answer any of your questions, and walk you through each step of your treatment. If you feel anxious about any part of your visit, let us know—we are happy to offer reassurance, discuss sedation options, or make small adjustments to help you feel at ease.
For those who need additional support, we offer oral sedation as a safe and accessible option to help you feel more relaxed during your dental care. If you’re interested in learning more about sedation dentistry, contact our Maple Ridge clinic to discuss whether it’s a good option for you.
Mindfulness and Breathing Techniques for Dental Phobias
If you feel nervous about your dental appointment, there are simple techniques that can help calm your mind and body before and during your visit. These methods can be used on their own or alongside sedation options to create a smoother experience.
Deep Breathing Exercises
Focusing on your breath can reduce tension and lower your heart rate. Try this before your appointment or while sitting in the dental chair:
4-7-8 Breathing: Inhale deeply and slowly through your nose for four seconds, hold for seven seconds, and then slowly exhale through your mouth or nose for eight seconds. Repeat a few times to feel more at ease.
Box Breathing: Inhale for four seconds, hold that breath in for four seconds, exhale for four seconds, and hold again for four seconds. This helps regulate breathing and brings a sense of calm.
Grounding Techniques
These simple methods help shift focus away from anxious thoughts and bring awareness to the present moment. We like muscle relaxation because you can use it anywhere!
Muscle Relaxation: Briefly tense different muscle groups in your body and then relax them, starting from your toes and working your way up to your head. This releases physical tension caused by stress.
Visualization
Imagine yourself in a calm setting, like a beach or a quiet forest, or somewhere meaningful to you that you find peaceful. Picture the specific sights, sounds, and smells of this place as you sit in the dental chair. Visualization can help you feel calmer and more comfortable during your dental treatment.
COMFORTABLE VISITS, COMPASSIONATE CARE
Your Concerns Matter—We’re Here to Help
Our dentist works with you to create an appointment experience that works for your needs. Please inquire with the team at Dentistry Thirty Two to see what sedation and anxiety reduction options are a good fit for you.