-
Huntington Beach: 16052 Beach Blvd Ste. 112, Huntington Beach, CA
BOOK AN APPOINTMENT
Emergency: (714) 600-4456
Huntington Beach: 16052 Beach Blvd Ste. 112, Huntington Beach, CA
Fountain Valley: 17991 Euclid St, Fountain Valley, CA
How Art Helps Reduce Stress and Anxiety in Dental Care
Feb 21, 2023
Art has been used as a form of therapy for centuries, but its therapeutic benefits have only recently been recognized in modern medicine. In particular, the use of art in healthcare settings has been found to have a positive impact on stress and pain reduction. This is especially relevant in dental care, where anxiety and pain are common concerns among patients, the use of visual art, such as paintings or pictures, has been found to be particularly effective in distracting patients from their discomfort.
Stress and pain are common experiences in healthcare, especially in dental care. According to the American Dental Association, approximately 22% of people in the United States report feeling anxious or afraid when visiting the dentist, while up to 85% of patients experience some degree of pain during dental procedures. These experiences can negatively affect a patient’s overall health and wellbeing, as well as their willingness to seek necessary dental care.
Art therapy has been found to be an effective intervention for reducing stress and pain in healthcare settings. A study published in the Journal of Health Psychology found that art therapy reduced pain and anxiety in patients with chronic pain, and improved their overall quality of life. Similarly, a study published in the Journal of Applied Gerontology found that art therapy reduced stress and anxiety in elderly patients with chronic illnesses. In dental care, art therapy has been shown to reduce anxiety and pain during dental procedures. A study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association found that patients who listened to music during dental procedures reported less anxiety and less pain than those who did not listen to music. Another study published in the Journal of Contemporary Dental Practice found that patients who viewed art during dental procedures reported less pain and anxiety than those who did not view art.
Art therapy can take many forms, including visual arts, music, dance, and writing. In dental care, visual arts are the most commonly used form of art therapy. Art can be displayed on the walls of the dental office, or patients can be given the opportunity to create their own art during dental procedures. The act of creating art has been found to have a calming effect on the body and mind, and can distract patients from their pain and anxiety.
In addition to its therapeutic benefits, art therapy is a low-cost and non-invasive intervention that can be easily implemented in healthcare settings. It requires minimal training for healthcare professionals and can be adapted to meet the needs of individual patients.
In conclusion, art therapy has been found to be an effective intervention for reducing stress and pain in healthcare, particularly in dental care. Studies have shown that art therapy can reduce anxiety and pain during dental procedures, as well as improve the overall quality of life for patients with chronic pain and illnesses. Art therapy is a low-cost and non-invasive intervention that can be easily implemented in healthcare settings, making it a valuable tool for healthcare professionals to consider incorporating into their practice. At Oceanic Dental, we understand the importance of creating a relaxing and soothing atmosphere for our patients, and we use a range of visual art techniques, along with other stress-reducing techniques, to help our patients cope with dental procedures. We are committed to providing the highest level of care and attention to our patients, and we embrace every available tool and medically proven method to ensure that our patients have the best possible dental experience.
Oceanic Dental
References:
1/ American Dental Association. (n.d.). Patient Anxiety and Fear of Pain. Retrieved from https://www.ada.org/en/~/media/ADA/Publications/Files/ADA_PatientSmart_Anxiety_Fear_Pain.pdf
2/ Kaimal, G., Ray, K., & Muniz, J. (2016). Reduction of Cortisol Levels and Participants' Responses Following Art Making. Art Therapy, 33(2), 74-80.
3/ Kwekkeboom, K. L., & Gretarsdottir, E. (2014). Systematic Review of Relaxation Interventions for Pain. Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 46(3), 214-223.
4/ Navazesh, M., & Rich, S. K. (2011). Music in the Dental Office: A Review of the Literature and Practical Considerations. Journal of the American Dental Association, 142
Welcome to Invisalign Day at Oceanic Dental
Embrace the journey to your most radiant smile with Oceanic Dental's exclusive Invisalign Day. Discover the art of subtle transformation and experience the elegance of Invisalign's clear aligners. Join us for a day dedicated to enhancing your smile's natural beauty, with personalized consultations and special offers tailored just for you.
Elevate your smile, elevate your confidence. Welcome to a new era of dental perfection.
Misconceptions in dental health can lead to the neglect of dental care and the proliferation of preventable issues. This article aims to shed light on these common myths and provide straightforward, actionable advice to foster a healthier smile.
Before setting off on your sun-soaked summer sojourns, safeguarding your dental health is a key aspect of your pre-trip planning. Dental emergencies can put a damper on your much-anticipated adventures, being both costly and discomforting. However, a comprehensive dental care guide, designed with input from top dentistry experts, can ensure your smile stays radiant throughout your travels. These easy-to-follow, practical tips will help you dodge potential pitfalls, allowing you to explore the world with an unblemished smile. First Stop: Pre-Trip Dental Check-Up Before you immerse yourself in exotic locales and fascinating cultures, prioritize a pre-trip dental check-up. This check-up ensures your dentist can assess your oral health, manage any existing concerns, and perform a meticulous cleaning. By commencing your journey with an all-clear from your dentist, you significantly reduce the risk of unforeseen dental complications, allowing you to bask in your travel experiences undisturbed. Packing 101: Travel-Sized Dental Essentials Dental care shouldn’t pause while you're hopping across continents. Be sure to pack travel-sized dental necessities: a toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss. Consider a compact, travel-friendly toothbrush with a protective case for maximum hygiene. Having these essentials within easy reach ensures you maintain proper oral hygiene, irrespective of your geographical coordinates. Stay True to Good Oral Hygiene Habits Traveling may upend your everyday routine, but your oral hygiene regimen should remain non-negotiable. Maintain your regular brushing and flossing schedule, brushing at least twice daily for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste. Don’t neglect to floss every day to dislodge plaque and food particles from hard-to-reach areas. By adhering to these habits, your smile will remain fresh and vibrant, even on the longest of voyages. Watch Your Plate: Diet and Hydration While you're eagerly sampling local gastronomic delights, remember your dental health. Be mindful of sugary and acidic foods and beverages, which can spur tooth decay and enamel erosion. Opt for a balanced intake, including fresh fruits and vegetables, and hydrate frequently with water to maintain optimal oral health. Staying adequately hydrated encourages saliva production, which helps rinse away food remnants and maintain a healthy oral pH. Guard Your Smile During Outdoor Activities Your summer escapades may include adrenaline-pumping outdoor sports and activities. Don't let the fun jeopardize your oral health; use mouthguards or other dental appliances tailored to the activity you're participating in. Be it biking, hiking, or surfing, sporting a mouthguard can shield your teeth from unexpected impacts, preventing dental injuries. Be Prepared: Research Emergency Dental Services at Your Destinations Despite top-notch precautions, dental emergencies can strike. Arm yourself with information about emergency dental services available at your destinations. Keep their contact details and locations handy for quick accessibility. Prompt professional intervention can relieve pain and prevent further complications, ensuring your travels remain on track. Conclusion: For the discerning traveler, maintaining dental health during summer explorations should be on top of the to-do list. By prioritizing a pre-trip dental check-up, packing travel-sized dental essentials, adhering to good oral hygiene practices, staying conscious of dietary choices, protecting your smile during active pursuits, and researching emergency dental services, you can embark on your adventures with peace of mind. Your radiant, healthy smile will be your best companion as you etch unforgettable memories across the globe. Bon voyage!
About Us
With so many dental offices to choose from in Orange County, it’s difficult to find the one that’s ideal for you. At Oceanic Dental, compassion and expertise come together to provide concierge-level dental care that will help you achieve the smile you love.