A look at how dental anxiety affects patient compliance.
Dental anxiety is a key reason for patient hesitancy when agreeing to treatment. This is because those with dental anxiety tend to overestimate fear and pain.
Anticipation of painful treatments might even deter patients from seeking orthodontic treatment, as they may be aware that some patients experience an aching sensation with traditional fixed orthodontic appliances. In some cases, where appropriate, it may be helpful to discuss the option of clear aligner treatment as a more comfortable alternative. This can be useful for patients who would otherwise decline treatment, helping them to access the care they need. Discussing various treatment options may reduce the anxiety they feel about it and, therefore, improve patient compliance.
The best option for each patient
As clear aligner treatment continues to gain popularity amongst both patients and clinicians, demand is on the rise. While many patients may visit your practice seeking treatment using clear aligners, it is important to ensure that this is the best option for them, as some more complex cases may require a fixed appliance. Where clinically appropriate, offering clear aligners can boost treatment acceptance for patients who may have otherwise declined. This can allow you to provide patients with the best possible outcomes.
But does it hurt?
A common question asked by many patients prior to any dental treatment, including orthodontics, is ‘Will it hurt?’. The prospect of pain during dental treatment can be a source of anxiety for patients, so it is understandable that many would like to know what to expect before they agree to anything. Because of this, it is important that you’re able to answer honestly, describing the experiences they might expect from each treatment option based on research.
Factors like pain are difficult to measure, as it is subjective and influenced by factors such as age, pain threshold, present emotions and stress, and previous experiences of pain. However, research has found that, overall, clear aligners are associated with significantly less pain when compared to fixed appliances during the first week of orthodontic treatment. In general, patients treated with clear aligners experience less pain and discomfort than those treated with fixed appliances and take fewer painkillers during the duration of their treatment.
One study found that treatment using clear aligners may result in mild tooth pain and tenderness in the jaw muscle. However, this is of limited clinical significance, and patients also report mild jaw muscle tenderness at the beginning of treatment. When compared to fixed appliances, it becomes clear that this is a more comfortable option for patients.
Research suggests that lesions caused by fixed appliances were common, at 76 per cent, and severe ulcers occur among 2.5 per cent of patients. This is because patients who have fixed braces may experience broken brackets, excess wire ends, or detached attachments, which can irritate or damage the soft tissue. This can cause patients much pain and discomfort.
Reassuring anxious patients
Communication is an effective way to reduce patient anxiety when it comes to treatment acceptance. Patients must be made aware that it is their decision whether they accept treatment or not, and that they can withdraw their consent at any time. However, they must be fully informed about the treatment options. This is most effective when they have the space and time to ask questions, learn about their options, and discuss any aspects they may be worried about. This is a great opportunity to reassure patients about any concerns they have and discuss the features of the clear aligner system you plan to use. This will help patients to gain a good understanding of the treatment they will receive. Additionally, choosing a system which aims to make the patient experience more comfortable will help you to reassure anxious patients.
ClearCorrect aligners make comfort a priority. The tri-layer design of ClearQuartz material ensures that patients have a more comfortable experience as the flexible inner layer applies a third less initial force on the teeth compared to single-layer material. Additionally, digital manufacturing software from ClearCorrect enhances the trimline design of each aligner to help ensure a more custom, comfortable fit. However, there is no compromise of quality. Clarity and durability are essential for successful clear aligner treatment and improving patient compliance, allowing them to achieve reliable results.
Because many anxious patients may be deterred from accepting treatment due to the fear of pain and discomfort, it is important to recommend the most comfortable options possible to help patients access the care they need. In some cases, orthodontic treatment using clear aligners may be appropriate, which provides patients with a far more comfortable experience. By having open conversations with patients about their treatment options and giving them plenty of opportunities to ask questions and discuss their concerns, you are able to reassure patients about what they can expect during orthodontic treatment and the levels of discomfort they might expect.
For more information visit www.clearcorrect-uk.com