Austin Laser Dentist - Helen Ragsdale DDS, 11615 Angus Rd Ste 101, Austin 78759, United States (US) - Phone: 512 346-4690

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Is Dental Anxiety Genetic? Exploring the Causes of Dental Fear

woman in dental chair with dental anxiety covering her mouth

Many people struggle with dental anxiety, which may keep them from visiting our dentist in Austin, TX, regularly. But skipping dentist appointments can have serious effects on oral health. But have you ever wondered whether dental fear runs in families? The answer may surprise you. 

Some research shows that dental anxiety might have a genetic link. So, if you’re looking for a gentle, understanding dentist in Austin, TX, Dr. Helen Ragsdale is here for you. Contact Austin Laser Dentist at (512) 346-4690 to get calming care in a judgment-free clinic today!

No, let’s explore where dental anxiety comes from and what you can do about it.

What Is Dental Anxiety?

Dental anxiety is the fear or stress people feel about visiting the dentist. It can range from mild nervousness to intense panic. This fear often leads people to skip dental appointments altogether.

Could Dental Anxiety Be in Your DNA?

It might be! Studies suggest dental anxiety can run in families. If your parents or siblings feel anxious about dental visits, you may have inherited that tendency.

It’s not just the genetics. Kids often learn fear by watching others. So, if a parent shows fear at the dentist, a child may start to feel scared, too.

Nature or Nurture?

So, is it genes or your environment? The truth is, it’s probably both. Here’s how it breaks down:

  • Genetics can influence how your brain reacts to stress and pain.
  • Family habits and behavior shape your attitude toward dental care.
  • Past experiences – like a painful procedure – can increase fear.

All these factors work together to shape your feelings about the dentist.

Signs of Dental Anxiety

Think you might have dental anxiety? Look out for these signs:

  • Trouble sleeping before an appointment
  • Feeling sick at the thought of the dentist
  • Panic or tears in the dental chair
  • Avoiding the dentist for years

If this sounds like you, you’re not alone. Many adults and kids go through this, and there are solutions to help you get the care you need without fear and dread.

How a Dentist in Austin, TX, Can Help

A great dentist in Austin, TX, will understand your fears. They won’t rush you or judge you. Indeed, many dentists (including Dr. Ragsdale) now offer gentle options, like:

  • Sedation dentistry
  • Noise-canceling headphones
  • Stress-reducing aromatherapy
  • Warm blankets and calming music

The right dental team makes all the difference.

Tips to Overcome Dental Anxiety

You can take small steps to feel better about the dentist:

  • Talk openly about your fears.
  • Visit the office before your appointment.
  • Bring a friend for support.
  • Practice deep breathing or meditation.
  • Choose a dentist who specializes in treating nervous patients.

The more positive experiences you have, the easier it gets.

Fight Dental Anxiety at Austin Laser Dentist

Whether it’s in your genes or shaped by your past, dental anxiety is real. But it doesn’t have to control your smile. You deserve kind, expert care that makes you feel safe. With the right support, even the most anxious patients can conquer their fears.

If you’re searching for a friendly dentist in Austin, TX, look no further than Dr. Helen Ragsdale at Austin Laser Dentist. Click here for more information and appointments, or call us at (512) 346-4690 to experience compassionate dental care today!

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How do you get over dental embarrassment?

woman covering her face in embarrassment

If you suffer from dental embarrassment, it may have been years since you visited the dentist. In turn, your now poor oral health may cause further shame, contributing to a vicious cycle. As your dental health deteriorates, your embarrassment increases and you are even more reluctant to schedule an appointment. Fortunately, if you’re wondering, “How do you get over dental embarrassment?,” it’s totally possible! 

The most important thing is to find the right practitioner – someone who offers compassionate, non-judgemental care in a relaxed environment. At Austin Laser Dentist, Dr. Helen Ragsdale is passionate about providing her patients with the best possible experience. Her gentle chairside manner and plenty of amenities will have you feeling more confident about dental treatment than you may have felt in years. 

To learn more about how you get over dental embarrassment, contact Austin Laser Dentist today.

What is dental embarrassment?

Dental embarrassment affects nearly one in three Americans aged 50 to 64. These individuals consider their oral health to be so poor that they are ashamed for their dentist to see their teeth up close. For many, embarrassment is linked to finances, since 33.6% of Americans do not have dental health insurance. As a result, they neglect their preventive care, which significantly increases the risk for tooth decay, gum disease, and other issues.

Dental embarrassment can often be an underlying cause of dental anxiety. If you struggle with this type of anxiety, you may experience a racing heart, difficulty sleeping, sweating palms, and other symptoms prior to and during a dental appointment.

Find an Understanding Dentist

The first step in overcoming dental embarrassment is to find the right dentist. Like many, you may wonder, “What if my teeth are the worst my dentist has ever seen?” or “What if she judges me as a person?” The truth is that dentists have likely seen far worse problems than yours! And even if they hadn’t, they got into dentistry to help people! In all likelihood, your oral health concerns arouse feelings of empathy, rather than judgment. 

This is certainly the case for Dr. Ragsdale! She is a fixture in Austin, practicing in the city for over two decades. During that time, she has become known for her gentleness and easy-to-approach attitude. She offers luxuries like warm blankets and pillows, cable TV, headphones, and sound therapy to help you relax. If your embarrassment and anxiety is particularly severe, we can even provide dental sedation.

Find Affordable Care 

Knowing that dental embarrassment is often linked to finances, we are proud to offer an in-house dental plan. For those without insurance, our plan includes free preventive exams and cleanings. Plus, you will receive 20-30% off major treatments and 10-20% off cosmetic procedures, oral surgeries, and dental implants.

Practice Relaxation Methods

Even with the best dentist, you may experience some jitters as you prepare for your appointment. Practice deep breathing, muscle relaxation, or mindfulness techniques before you come in. That way, you have some ready tools to help you combat anxiety in the office. 

Learn More about How to Overcome Dental Embarrassment

Still wondering, “How do you get over dental embarrassment?” Contact us today to learn more! Call us at (512) 346-4690 or send us a message online! 

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How can I stop being scared of the dentist?

If you’re wondering, “How can I stop being scared of the dentist?,” rest assured that there are many ways to reduce anxiety. Finding an understanding dentist is key, and simple breathing and relaxation methods can be very helpful. And for those with more intense anxiety, dental sedation can make things easier than you may have ever thought possible. 

At Austin Laser Dentist, Dr. Helen Ragsdale is known for her gentle techniques, wonderful chairside demeanor, and dedication to patient comfort. She also uses sedation and the latest laser technology to ensure that treatment involves minimal discomfort. 

To learn about our technology and sedation options or to schedule an appointment, contact our office today.

If You’re Scared of the Dentist, You’re Not Alone!

Studies indicate that 50 to 80% of the US population suffers from some degree of dental anxiety. For 9 to 15% of these anxious patients, the fear is so strong that they totally avoid dental care. 

Moreover, this type of anxiety is multifaceted and has many underlying causes. Dental anxiety may result from:

  • Traumatic or unpleasant experiences in the past
  • Expectations imposed by the media or by loved ones
  • A predisposition to general anxiety
  • Other related conditions, such as claustrophobia 

Find a Compassionate Dentist

When the thought of a dental visit sets your heart racing, the first thing to do is to seek treatment from a nonjudgmental practitioner. Dr. Ragsdale knows the prevalence of dental anxiety and understands that it is not your fault. Patient comfort is one of her top priorities, and our beautiful, airy office is equipped with many amenities to help you relax. 

Advanced Technology Can Reduce Anxiety

Many patients are worried about experiencing pain during or after a dental procedure. If this is the cause of your anxiety, you can take comfort from the fact that Dr. Ragsdale is one of the area’s leading experts in laser dentistry. Our hard and soft tissue lasers can remove damaged tissue with minimal impact to the rest of your mouth. Even better, lasers actually seal blood vessels as they go, resulting in reduced irritation and recovery time! 

Learn Relaxation Techniques

Guided imagery, muscle relaxation, and deep breathing can actually lower your heart rate and your blood pressure in the dental chair. Consider learning these techniques from a therapist or other qualified health professional, especially if you suffer from anxiety in other areas of your life.

Consider Sedation

If you’ve tried other techniques, and still feel worried, sedation is a great option! At Austin Laser Dentist, we offer a combination of oral medications and nitrous oxide. These medications will keep you in a sleepy, dream-like state for two to six hours. With our constant monitoring, you will be completely safe, but you will have little to no memory of treatment once the sedation is out of your system.

Contact Us to Ask, “How can I stop being scared of the dentist?”

Don’t let dental anxiety get in the way of the care you deserve. If you’re at your wit’s end, wondering, “How can I stop being scared of the dentist?,” we are ready to help!

Contact us online or give us a call at (512) 346-4690.

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Fight Dental Fear and Anxiety with Sedation Dentistry

nervous woman on blue background

We all have had or know someone who has had a bad dental experience. Unfortunately, these experiences can create a bad reputation for all dentists– even the good ones! This also results in increased dental fear and anxiety for patients of all ages. 

How to Combat Dental Fear and Anxiety

Is it possible to visit the dentist without feeling overwhelmed with anxiety? Yes! Here’s how: 

  1. The first step to a comfortable dental experience is to choose a dentist you can trust. Do some research to find the best dentist near you or ask friends and family about their best dental experiences. When researching, search for a dentist who prioritizes patient comfort, offers sedation dentistry, and has a reputation of being caring and compassionate.
  2. Be honest about your fears. This may require some soul-searching. Most people fear the dentist because of a bad experience, feeling out of control, the sounds of dental tools, or embarrassment about the state of their mouths. Whatever the case is for you, express the root of your fear to your dentist so that she can make you feel as comfortable as possible. 
  3. Schedule an initial consultation to get to know the dentist better. During this appointment, you will simply ask the dentist questions about her experience, how she prioritizes patient comfort, and dental sedation options. You can also take a tour of the dental practice. 
  4. Have a friend drive you to your appointment. Getting to your appointment may be the hardest part. Schedule the appointment for a time when a friend or family member can go with you! Then, plan to do something fun afterward. 

What is sedation dentistry? 

Dental sedation aims to help patients relax during all types of dental procedures. During your initial consultation, Dr. Ragsdale will ask about your level of anxiety to determine the right amount of medication that you need. The levels of sedation range from minimal to deep. Dr. Ragsdale may also recommend general anesthesia in some circumstances. 

  • Minimal sedation: awake but calm
  • Conscious sedation: able to respond to instructions and speak but may forget parts of the procedure
  • Deep sedation: asleep but easily awakened
  • General anesthesia: completely unconscious

Oral sedation is a prescription pill that is taken before a procedure. Patients will receive a dosage that corresponds with their level of anxiety. During the procedure, the patient will experience minimal, moderate, or deep sedation while still being able to follow instructions. Patients who experience moderate to deep sedation will likely fall asleep but will be easy to wake. Following the procedure, patients may still feel a little groggy, so it is important to have a friend or family member who can drive them home. 

Sedation Dentistry in Austin, TX

At Austin Laser Dentist, comfort is our top priority. We understand that patients of all ages may experience dental fear or anxiety. Along with local anesthesia, Dr. Ragsdale often recommends oral sedation to provide a comfortable and relaxed dental experience. 

Is dental sedation right for you? If fear or anxiety has been keeping you from receiving the oral health care you need, you are likely a suitable candidate. Contact our Austin, TX dentist today to learn more! Call (512) 346-4690 to schedule an appointment. 

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5 Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Dentistry

Woman getting laser dental treatment

Laser dentistry is revolutionizing many dental procedures because of the benefits it affords patients. Lasers make dental treatments more comfortable, faster, and cost-effective.

1. What is laser dentistry? 

Laser dentistry is the use of lasers to perform a dental procedure. The lasers create light energy in a very narrow, focused beam. That beam creates a reaction when it comes into contact with tissue which allows the tissue in the mouth to be removed or reshaped.

2. How are hard and soft tissue lasers different?

The wavelength from hard tissue lasers is highly absorbable by hydroxyapatite. Hard tissue lasers also include Erbium Chromium YSGG and Erbium YAG. This allows this type of laser to cut through teeth and bones with a high degree of accuracy. Hard tissue lasers are most often used for procedures such as prepping a tooth for filling, root canal treatment, shaping a tooth for crown placement, and removing decay.

Soft tissue lasers absorb water and hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells, at a high rate. They also include Neodymium YAG, a crystal, in diode lasers, which aids in the killing of bacteria and the regrowth of tissues. Soft lasers seal nerve endings and blood vessels, meaning patients experience little to no pain after treatment. These reasons make soft tissue laser treatments a preferred treatment for many dentists when performing certain procedures such as treating periodontitis, a gum infection that damages soft tissues in the mouth.

3. What are some examples of laser dentistry treatments? 

Laser dentistry is primarily used for two types of treatments: those for hard tissue and those for soft tissue. Hard tissue treatment refers to procedures performed on teeth while soft tissue treatment refers to those performed on gums.

Hard tissue procedures include:

  • Cavity detection and treatment. Lasers can detect cavities early because they are more adept at finding evidence of tooth decay. Additionally, once located, lasers can kill bacteria in a cavity without the need for traditional drilling. That can help preserve the long-term health of a tooth. Lasers also eliminate the need for anesthesia which makes the patient more comfortable.
  • Treating tooth sensitivity. Teeth that are highly sensitive to hot and cold are treated with lasers that seal tubules on the tooth’s root leading to less discomfort.

Soft tissue procedures include:

  • Scaling and root planing. Plaque and tartar are removed from above and below the gumline and then the tooth’s roots are smoothed over to help the gums reattach to the tooth.
  • Gum surgery. Lasers aid in gum surgery as they seal blood vessels which reduces inflammation and sensitivity.
  • Treating a gummy smile. Lasers are used to reshape gum tissue where the gums’ length covers much of the tooth.
  • Teeth whitening. Lasers can also help in teeth whitening as they speed up the bleaching process during whitening sessions.

4. How much does laser dentistry cost? 

The cost of laser treatment varies depending on the procedure and the equipment being employed. Insurers often determine reimbursement costs based on procedures rather than the method the treatment is completed by. However, laser treatments may be less expensive overall than traditional treatments because they can usually be completed in fewer visits.

To be certain, patients should always inquire about their specific policy beforehand any treatment begins.

5. Are there risks associated with laser treatment?

The risks of laser dental treatment are relatively few. A dental professional may have the patient use special glasses to protect her eyes from the laser. It is always important to find a qualified dental professional to perform any laser treatment. Using the wrong wavelength, for example, could damage tissue.

Quality Laser Dentistry in Austin, TX

Dr. Ragsdale is one of the area’s leading professionals on the use of dental lasers. She has taught laser dentistry techniques to many other dental professionals in the area. 

Let her and the team at Austin Laser Dentist show you the many benefits of laser dentistry. Call (512) 346-4690 or book a one-on-one consultation through our website to get started today.