Dental anxiety can make even routine appointments feel overwhelming. One effective way to regain control and reduce stress is by creating a personalized Calm Lista set of strategies, preferences, and requests designed specifically to support your emotional comfort during dental visits.
At McLevin Dental, we encourage patients to develop a Calm List as part of their dental care plan. This proactive approach helps communicate your needs clearly, empowers you to take charge, and makes each appointment more manageable.
In this blog, well guide you step-by-step on how to build your own Calm List to transform your dental experience.
What Is a Calm List?
A Calm List is a personalized collection of coping tools, preferences, and instructions you provide to your dental team before and during appointments. It outlines what helps you stay calm, what triggers your anxiety, and how the team can support you best.
Think of it as your emotional care blueprinta clear way to ensure your comfort is prioritized every time you visit.
Why You Need a Calm List
Enhances Communication: Clearly shares your needs without needing to explain anxiety every time
Builds Trust: Shows your dental team that youre proactive about your care and comfort
Reduces Surprises: Prepares everyone to avoid or manage your triggers effectively
Promotes Empowerment: Helps you feel in control, reducing feelings of helplessness
Supports Consistency: Ensures your preferences are remembered across visits and providers
How to Create Your Calm List: Step-by-Step
1. Identify Your Triggers
Start by listing what causes you the most stress or fear at the dentist. Examples might include:
Fear of pain or needles
Sensitivity to dental sounds or smells
Feeling rushed or not listened to
Fear of losing control or not being able to pause
Sensory sensitivities (bright lights, touch, gag reflex)
Knowing your triggers helps you and your dental team plan around them.
2. List Your Coping Strategies
What helps you feel calm and grounded? Include things like:
Deep breathing or guided meditation
Listening to music or podcasts
Holding a comfort object or fidget toy
Using noise-cancelling headphones
Requesting breaks during treatment
Visualizing a safe place or positive outcome
Write down as many as you find helpful.
3. State Your Preferences for Communication
Clear communication is key. Specify how you want the team to interact with you, such as:
Explain each step before starting
Use a specific hand signal to pause or stop
Avoid unnecessary small talk or focus on supportive language
Speak slowly and calmly
Check in regularly to ask how youre feeling
4. Include Sedation or Medication Preferences
If you use sedation or medication, note what type and any concerns, such as:
Preference for nitrous oxide, oral sedation, or no sedation
History of medication reactions
Need for extra numbing or allergy considerations
5. Add Any Special Accommodations
Mention any special needs that affect your care, like:
Mobility assistance
Sensory tools or weighted blankets
Appointment timing preferences (e.g., morning to avoid anxiety buildup)
Language or cultural considerations
How to Use Your Calm List Effectively
Share it ahead of time: Send your list to the dental office before your appointment so the team can prepare.
Bring a printed or digital copy: Have it handy during your visit to remind yourself and staff.
Review and update regularly: As you learn what works best, adjust your list accordingly.
Discuss openly: Use your list as a starting point for conversation with your dentist or hygienist.
How McLevin Dental Supports Your Calm List
We embrace Calm Lists as a tool to enhance patient-centered care. Our team:
Reviews your list carefully before and during appointments
Tailors treatment plans based on your preferences
Respects your coping strategies and boundaries
Offers sedation and other comfort options aligned with your needs
Fosters an open, empathetic dialogue about your care
Your Calm List becomes a key part of your personalized dental care plan with us.
Final Thoughts: Take Charge of Your Comfort
Dental anxiety doesnt have to control your care. Creating a Calm List empowers you to take charge of your dental experience and ensures your emotional well-being is prioritized.
At McLevin Dental, were here to support every step of your journeystarting with a plan that honors your unique needs and helps you feel safe, calm, and confident.