Relax Your Way to Better Dental Health
Let’s face it—nobody loves going to the dentist. But for some, dental anxiety is more than just a little uneasiness; it can lead to avoiding appointments altogether, which only makes oral health issues worse. The good news? A recent study published in the European Journal of Oral Sciences highlights a surprisingly simple way to calm those nerves: relaxation techniques.
The Study in a Nutshell
Researchers took 68 patients with gum issues (aka periodontal patients) and dental anxiety and split them into two groups. One group tried something called progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) — a fancy term for a guided session where you systematically tense and relax different muscle groups to feel calmer. The other group just got a standard oral health education session.
Each week, over four weeks, the relaxation group spent 20 minutes unwinding with PMR before diving into 15 minutes of dental care tips. Meanwhile, the other group stuck to the 15 minutes education-only approach.
The Results? Relaxation Wins!
By the end of four weeks, the PMR group wasn’t just feeling less anxious—they were measurably calmer:
Anxiety levels plummeted compared to the control group, and the benefits stuck around even three months later.
Their stress markers (like heart rate, blood pressure, and even cortisol levels) improved too.
Bonus: They reported feeling less down in the dumps—reduced symptoms of depression!
Why Does This Matter?
Dental anxiety doesn’t just make you sweat in the dentist’s chair—it can keep you from getting the care you need. And while dental professionals do their best to create a calming environment, tools like PMR might be the extra boost patients need to feel more at ease.
Make Relaxation Part of Your Practice
As a dentist, you know a calm patient is a cooperative patient. That’s where something like Calmpak Express can help. With its anonymous, easy-to-access stress management experiences—like guided breathing and relaxation techniques—it’s a perfect addition to your new patient welcome packages.
Each Calmpak Express subscription provides 20 units per month, featuring popular experiences like “Relax” and “Breathe.” Patients can use the included keyfob to scan a QR code and instantly access calming exercises anytime, anywhere—whether they’re gearing up for an appointment or unwinding afterward.
Incorporating Calmpak Express into your practice shows patients you truly care about their comfort and well-being, while helping them build stress-reducing habits that benefit their overall health.
Could PMR (or Calmpak!) Work for You?
The best part about relaxation techniques like PMR—and Calmpak—is that they’re simple, accessible, and effective. Whether you’re a dentist looking to improve patient care or someone dreading your next appointment, a little relaxation might go a long way toward making that dental visit feel less daunting—and your smile will thank you!