What is Dentophobia?
Dentophobia, or the fear of the dentist, is a surprisingly common phobia that affects many people. It can range from mild discomfort to severe panic at an upcoming visit or procedure. Symptoms can include rapid heartbeat, sweating, nausea, trembling, and avoidance of dental care. This can make it difficult for people with dental phobia to maintain oral health.
Common causes of dental phobia are related to past experiences such as painful procedures or traumatic events; fear of needles; feeling out of control in vulnerable situations; and anxiety about general health issues. For those with dentophobia, seeing a dentist can bring up feelings of intense fear and dread which can be crippling and hard to overcome.
Those with dentophobia must cope with their fears to get the proper dental care they need. Many times this involves searching for an everyday practice setting where you will feel more comfortable; finding a skilled professional who understands your concerns and is willing to work with you; and making sure you have all the information you need before any procedure so there are no surprises and you know what to expect. Other helpful tips may include deep breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, visualization practices, and finding support from family members or friends before your appointment.
Although dentophobia may seem overwhelming at times, it is essential not to let it prevent you from getting necessary dental care. With understanding, patience, and willingness to seek help when needed, there are many ways that dentophobia can help themselves manage their fears so that they have healthy teeth and gums for years to come!
Do you have dental anxiety?
Many patients have some form of dental anxiety; researchers estimate about %9-%15 of Americans avoid dental care altogether due to stress and fear. When we put off going to the dentist for routine preventive care such as cleanings and exams, we might end up hurting ourselves further down the road because dental issues are left undetected or not caught early on.
Are you interested in sedation?
Many people have had bad dental experiences, fear of the unknown, or fear of pain from a procedure. We don’t want to hurt anyone or make them uncomfortable coming into the dentist, so we always offer sedation as an option for tx! In our office, we use nitrous oxide ( laughing gas). This form of sedation is very minimal and can help reduce your anxiety. The other option would be taking oral medication; this combined with the nitrous, would help make your appointment more enjoyable and easygoing if you are nervous about having treatment done. These options should be discussed with your dentist before treatment to help you decide the best options for you.
Bring a friend!
If bringing a friend or family member to your dental appointment will help put you at ease, then bring them in! Sometimes it’s nice to have someone nearby to support you and make you feel safe.
Arrive at your appointment early!
Sometimes, rushing out the door can cause us to get worked up and add to our anxiety. Arriving early is a great way to reset and prepare for the appointment, and you’ll have plenty of time to ask questions before you return!