Dentists are trained to look for signs of anxiety in their patients. These signs can include:
- Restlessness or fidgeting
- Excessive sweating
- Rapid breathing
- Difficulty concentrating
- Avoidance of eye contact
- Clenching of the jaw or fists
- Negative self-talk
If a dentist suspects that a patient is experiencing anxiety, they may ask the patient about their feelings or recommend professional counseling.