In severe cases of anxiety, intravenous (IV) sedation or general anesthesia may be appropriate to ensure you can receive the dental care you require. These are generally provided under supervision and monitoring of specialist anaesthetists. Please speak to your dentist to discuss if this is appropriate for your condition.

There are several medications that can help manage dental anxiety. Oral sedatives (such as diazepam, alprazolam or lorazepam) can be prescribed before a dental visit to help induce a state of relaxation. In these cases, you will require someone to help transport you to and from the dental clinic as you are unable to drive after taking these medications.

Deep breathing and relaxation techniques can be very effective in managing dental anxiety. Deep breathing helps to slow the heart rate and promote relaxation. It involves inhaling deeply and slowly through the nose, holding the breath briefly, then exhaling slowly through the mouth. Relaxation techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation or visualising a calming scene, can help distract the mind and reduce anxiety. These techniques can be practiced before and during the dental appointment to help alleviate anxiety and create a more positive dental experience.