Having a fear of the dentist is common, with many people finding the prospect of drills and injections off-putting. However, in good news, dentistry is becoming kinder. Less invasive and shorter treatments are becoming increasingly common, aided by technological advancements. This should hopefully reduce feelings of anxiety towards going to the dentist.
For many people, a trip to the dentist can be an uncomfortable prospect. Feelings of nervousness, anxiety, and trepidation are all common.
However, dentistry is changing in a positive way. In fact, it is becoming much kinder, which should ease feelings of anxiety for patients [1].
Kinder and less invasive dental treatments are becoming the norm. Technological advancements are aiding this, with the hope that attitudes towards going to the dentist will improve.
The process of needing dental treatment
In general, dentists recommend that patients should get a check-up at least once every six months. This allows them to check their oral health and to identify any problems.
Tooth decay is a common issue. It is caused by bacteria in dental plaque which produces acids, which eventually results in a cavity developing.
When a cavity does develop, it normally needs to be filled. This is where the fear sets in, as treatment typically involves needles and drills.
Traditionally, the area around the tooth that will be treated is numbed by an injection of local anesthetic. Then, the dentist will remove the decayed part of the tooth with a dental drill. The cavity is then filled with a material, which is known as a filling.
This process results in many people avoiding the dentist. This is normally due to fear of the injection or the drill. In some cases, it is both.
Dental fear is common, with one study finding that 36% of adults in the UK are moderately “dentally anxious” [2]. Some people go years without going to the dentist due to their fears.
Children can be particularly anxious about going to the dentist. If their fear is not challenged, they may get into the unhealthy habit of avoiding the dentist in their older years.
However, times are changing. Needle-free and drill-free approaches are helping to improve the management of tooth decay and ease fears.
Furthermore, there are three particular techniques which are helping dentistry to become kinder. These are Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF), Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART), and the Hall technique [1].
Silver Diamine Fluoride
SDF offers a very different approach compared to traditional techniques. SDF is a clear liquid that is applied directly into the cavity using a small brush.
This process takes only a few seconds, and crucially, does not require the use of needles or drills. Therefore, this represents a much less invasive approach towards treating tooth decay.
In terms of how it works, SDF has antibacterial properties which are capable of killing the bacteria that causes the decay. Additionally, the fluoride in SDF hardens the remaining tooth structure [1].
While it isn’t overly effective in deep cavities, it is effective for shallow cavities. Past research into SDF has found it stopped decay in approximately 80% of cases [3].
However, there is a disadvantages to SDF. SDF causes the treated area to turn black, which is off-putting for many, especially if it involves a front tooth. Despite this, its non-invasive approach makes it a popular treatment.
Atraumatic Restorative Treatment
ART offers another approach to treating cavities. Originally, this approach was developed for use in areas where access to dental equipment was poor. But it is being increasingly used on a widespread basis.
ART involves removing decayed tooth tissue using hand instruments, meaning that no drills or injections are needed. Then, the cavity is filled with a material called glass ionomer cement [1].
Glass ionomer cement is a special material which sticks to the tooth and slowly releases fluoride over time. This helps to prevent further tooth decay.
There are several positives about this approach. For example, it offers a non-invasive and quiet approach and is typically quicker than traditional drilling.
Furthermore, another positive of this treatment is that it can be performed whilst the patient is sat up, which can be particularly effective in young children or those with special needs.
The Hall technique
The Hall technique is also proving to be a popular option in the management of tooth decay. It only works in children, as it is designed for baby/milk teeth.
The Hall technique works by sealing the decayed part of the baby tooth in, rather than removing it. This may seem counterproductive, though there is a method behind it!
The technique involves using a preformed metal crown which is placed over the decayed baby tooth without the need to engage in any drilling, injection, or removal of any part of the tooth.
A special dental cement holds the crown in place. The idea is that the crown will protect the tooth until it naturally falls out and is replaced by the permanent (adult) tooth.
Again, this is non-invasive and easy for children to cope with. Once the crown is in place, in theory no further work should be needed on the tooth.
Looking to the future
These are three approaches that have the potential to be very effective. Having no drilling or injections can be very appealing.
The aim is for patients to be comfortable in attending the dentist. Patient comfort is important for dentists and should result in patients looking after their oral health more.
These kinder approaches can work for both adults and children. For those that have avoided dental care for years, these new approaches may lead to them returning to receive care.
In the future, it is likely that further non-invasive treatments will be created. Hopefully, dental fear will lessen over the next few years.
Thinking points…
[1] We mentioned earlier about when tooth decay occurs, that cavities will develop, resulting in a filling being required. Fillings are very common, but can be avoided. One important element is early detection, as this can help to save as much of the natural tooth as possible. Remember to attend dental check-ups, as your dentist will be able to have a thorough look at your oral health and suggest treatment if needed. Why not book an appointment now?
[2] Further to the above, there are many ways of protecting your teeth from tooth decay. Adopting excellent oral hygiene – through brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing – is crucial. Moreover, avoiding sugary foods and drink can help too! Having a healthy diet rich in nutrients can be very effective. By putting these measures in place, it should maximize the chances of strong oral health!
What we offer at Savanna Dental
Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We provide our patients with a range of treatment options and advice, with the aim of improving oral health and boosting overall wellbeing!
We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a dental check-up. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To try and prevent problems, it is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly.
Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.
In addition, the fees of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.
We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca/!
References
[1] Olegario, I., & Leavy, P. (2025). Three ways to make dental care kinder for anxious patients. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-ways-dental-kinder-anxious-patients.html. Last accessed: 6th June 2025.
[2] National Health Service. (2009). Adult Dental Health Survey 2009 – First Release. Available: https://files.digital.nhs.uk/publicationimport/pub01xxx/pub01061/adul-dent-heal-surv-firs-rele-2009-rep.pdf. Last accessed: 6th June 2025.
[3] Seifo, N., Cassie, H., Radford, J. R., & Innes, N. P. T. (2019). Silver diamine fluoride for managing carious lesions: an umbrella review. BMC Oral Health. 19 (145). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12903-019-0830-5.
