Helping Patients Navigate Panic Attacks and Anxiety in a Clinical Setting -[AGD Code# 153]

Course overview

Learning Objectives: Upon completion of this class the participant will: *Be able to understand what "Anxiety Disorders" are. *Be familiar with the thought process of a person with an Anxiety Disorder *Understand techniques that can be used to prevent and overcome a "panic attack" *Implement skills that can be used by the dental team to comfort and aid this patient group *Convey a positive and productive environment for these patients Course Description: Most classes focus on the anxious patient, which could be every patient that visits a dental office. This program addresses the patient that has an anxiety disorder. An increase in awareness of Anxiety Disorders and how prevalent they are in society makes it necessary for every dental professional to understand this type of patient. Understanding what Anxiety Disorders are and how to treat this group of patients so they have a positive dental experience. The techniques used to prevent and overcome a "panic attack" which can easily be used in any dental office will be discussed. Coping skills, muscle relaxation, breathing exercises, and dealing with irrational thought patterns will be discussed. The use of the sensors to change how a person reacts to dentistry and make the experience a positive one. Understanding how disabling anxiety can be and learning the techniques to help this increasing population will help the dental team treat patients with an Anxiety Disorder in a positive and productive manor.