Hi Sarah1989,
Many people experience anxiety while visiting their Dentist. In your case, likely it was the drill's pressure combined with the sound, that caused your body to experience a reaction. There are many options to treat dental anxiety, but the best one is simply finding a way to relax. I offer my patients the opportunity to borrow one of our office iPods. We have them loaded with selections of relaxing music, melodies and even binaural beats. Distracting yourself from the sound of the drill will take one major source of stress out of the equation. If your Dentist does't offer that, consider bringing music with you that you find relaxing or enjoyable.
Another trick is to simply keep reminding yourself that "it doesn't hurt and it won't hurt", often it's the perceived anticipation of pain that will cause people anxiety. Truth is, most dental procedures are painless, however if your mind believes that it'll be painful, that in itself can cause you stress & anxiety.
Education is also effective at reducing your anxiety. Watch a YouTube video of a crown-prep in the comfort of your home. When you return for your next appointment, ask your Dentist to fully explain the procedure before starting. Understanding what's happening, when it's happening will help reduce your fear.
Of course there other medicinal options: nitrous oxide (laughing gas), prescription drugs or sleep dentistry. However it sounds as though you've been successful at the Dentist before (with your previous fillings), therefore I'd recommend that you try again (with the belief that you'll be successful) before opting for medication.
Hope this helps and let us know how your next appointment works out.
Regards,
Dr. Jennifer Thomm
Cosmetic Dentist
Great Lakes Dental
Sarnia, Ontario Canada
