How to Help Patients with Dental Anxiety Feel Relaxed in a Cozy Environment at Your Clinic
For several years, we’ve been working closely with dental clinics across the Nordic region. In addition to hearing about their day-to-day experiences, their insights into patient care, and their strategies for handling dental anxiety, we’ve also learned a great deal about what they believe defines a positive patient experience.
But that’s not all. Through our Patient Prize concept, we select a “Clinic of the Month” and “Dentist of the Month,” based on patient satisfaction surveys gathered via our Trustbuilder module. Month after month, our conversations with the winners have provided unique insights into how patients with dental anxiety—and the overall patient experience—are handled at clinics in Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. So, which experiences and approaches keep popping up across practices? And how are nervous patients typically managed in dental clinics throughout the Nordic region? Let’s dive in.
1. Create a Relaxing Space
For many patients, bright and sterile treatment rooms can feel clinical and cold—and that can certainly intensify any nervousness they already feel about potential pain or just the overall experience of visiting the dentist. Naturally, there’s not much you can change about the fundamental design of your treatment rooms—they have to stay sterile and hygienic for the daily procedures you perform.
However, smaller steps can easily help you foster a cozier, more soothing atmosphere for your patients—maybe even distracting them a bit along the way.
Turn on some tunes
Music can be calming and help reduce anxiety. It also masks the sound of the dental drill—whether you go for gentle instrumental melodies, classic Kim Larsen songs, or Denmark’s Top 100 hits. Some dentists have speakers in their treatment rooms, while others encourage patients to bring their own headphones. Either way, music can really set a more relaxed tone.
Decorate the ceiling above the dental chair
Some clinics have had success with pictures, posters, or even maze designs on the ceiling, giving patients something else to look at when they’re in the chair. Many patients find it helpful to have a visual focus during treatment.
Minimize the clinical feel
Plenty of dental clinics work to tone down that stark, “clinical” vibe. They might add fresh flowers, greenery, magazines, or even clinic TV in the waiting area, so patients feel more at ease.
2. Walk Through the Treatment with Your Patient
A thorough, in-depth conversation often forms a strong foundation for the entire treatment process. Many providers mention that patients feel far more secure when they feel seen and heard before any procedure begins.
Tailor the treatment to your patients
Lots of dentists highlight how important it is to explain exactly what’s going to happen so patients have a sense of involvement and clarity about their treatment.
Inform your patient of their different treatment options
Several dentists note how valuable it is for patients to be presented with all potential treatment paths, letting them pick the option that best suits their needs.
Follow up with your patient
A quick follow-up after a procedure—a friendly phone call from the receptionist or a check-in from the dental assistant—can make a big difference and reassure patients that their well-being is a priority.
3. Meet the Patient at Their Level
Dentists often emphasize the importance of understanding the person behind the dental issue, because no two patients are alike. Each individual has different needs, concerns, and wishes.
Show and tell
Some dentists use visual aids to break down complex dental topics in a way that’s easy for patients to grasp. It’s a great way to truly meet patients where they are and help them feel informed.
Get to know your patient
Many clinics devote extra time to learning about their patients during the first visit. This helps the team better accommodate specific needs and tackle any dental anxiety early on.
“It’s okay to be scared of the dentist”
It’s completely normal for patients to feel nervous about a dental appointment. Some clinics make a point of reassuring patients that it’s normal to have these fears. They offer various options for pain relief and actively ask about patient concerns, helping patients feel safe and understood.
By embracing these approaches—creating a more pleasant environment, having transparent communication, and acknowledging each patient’s individual concerns—you’ll be well on your way to helping even the most anxious patients feel calm and comfortable in your clinic. Remember, a little warmth and understanding can go a long way!
