Dental anxiety is something that is frequently experienced in this field of practice. Initially when I hear of about dental anxiety, I perceive it as something based simply off of a bad experience at a dental visit. I would consider this negative experience at the office as a reason for them to feel uncomfortable and unsafe during their visitation. One of the most popular fears seen in the dental office is when it comes to injections, followed by the noises. As hygienist it is critical that we connect with these patients so that they feel comfortable with us and begin to open up and trust us more. 

Although as we have learned dental anxiety is not always based off of a negative experience in the dental chair, it could be something that is much deeper than that. This is why it is so important for health care providers especially in the oral health field to be as educated as possible on dental anxiety and trauma informed care. Understanding that all individuals have experience all moments of life is important, one patient may not need a step by step of how the appointment is going to go whereas another patient may need to be more informed on what is going on so that they can feel more comfortable. 

Whether it is dental anxiety from a negative experience in the office or based off of other traumatic experience, it is important to have an open mind in regards to how the patient may be feeling and what important steps need to be taken to assure the most optimal care for them.