Let’s be honest — going to the dentist isn’t exactly anyone’s idea of a good time. Between the whirring of drills, the intense overhead lights, and that oddly sterile smell in the air, the whole experience can feel a bit… much. And for people who struggle with feeling out of control, just sitting back in that reclining chair can be downright terrifying.
When you’re lying there with your mouth open, unable to talk or move freely, it’s not just uncomfortable — it can feel like panic bubbling up from nowhere. That sense of being stuck, of not having an easy way to say “stop,” can trigger real anxiety, especially for anyone dealing with claustrophobia or a strong need to stay in control.
You’re Not Alone: Dental Anxiety Is More Common Than You Think
A lot of people feel anxious about going to the dentist, even if they don’t always talk about it. For some, it comes from a painful memory or a bad experience in the past. For others, it’s more about not knowing what to expect or feeling powerless during a procedure. And if you already struggle with claustrophobia or anxiety around losing control, those feelings can really take over in a dental setting.
Why Claustrophobia Makes Dental Visits Harder
Claustrophobia — the fear of being in small, confined spaces — can turn a routine cleaning into a stressful ordeal. When you’re reclined in the chair, surrounded by equipment, with someone leaning over you, it can feel like there’s no escape route. That sense of being “trapped” is very real for a lot of people, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of.
It’s Not Just About Teeth — It’s About Control
For many of us, the real struggle isn’t the dental work itself — it’s the loss of control that comes with it. You can’t see what’s going on. You can’t talk easily. You can’t just get up and walk away. That kind of vulnerability can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re someone who needs to feel in charge of your surroundings to stay calm.
How to Make Dental Visits Feel Less Scary
If this all sounds familiar, the good news is: you’re not helpless. There are ways to make dental visits feel safer and more manageable. Here are some tips that might help:
1. Speak Up:
Don’t be afraid to tell your dentist how you’re feeling. A good dentist won’t judge you — in fact, they’ll probably appreciate your honesty. Ask about ways to take breaks during the appointment or set up a hand signal you can use if you need a pause.
2. Get Informed:
Sometimes, fear comes from not knowing what’s going to happen. Ask your dentist to walk you through the procedure ahead of time. Understanding what’s coming next can make it feel less overwhelming.
3. Practice Calming Techniques:
Deep breathing, mindfulness, or even something as simple as listening to your favourite playlist can help ease your nerves. Try a few things at home before your appointment to find out what calms you down.
4. Bring a Support Buddy:
Whether it’s a friend, partner, or family member, having someone there for moral support can make a big difference. Just knowing someone has your back can be incredibly comforting.
5. Customise the Experience:
Ask if you can adjust the chair to a more comfortable angle, wear sunglasses to block the bright light, or bring a stress ball or fidget item. Small changes can help you feel more grounded and in control.
6. Celebrate Progress:
Even getting through a short appointment is a win. Acknowledge your effort, and give yourself credit — you’re doing something hard, and that’s worth recognising.
Take It One Step at a Time
If your anxiety feels too big to manage on your own, you might consider talking to a therapist who specialises in anxiety or phobias. There’s absolutely no shame in that. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as looking after your teeth.
You’re not alone in this, and you’re not weak for feeling anxious. Be kind to yourself — and remember, every visit you get through is a step toward feeling stronger and more in control.
