What is Dental Phobia and Dental Anxiety? Find Out –
Dental anxiety is described as a feeling of fear or nervousness when going to the dentist. This anxiety can manifest in various ways and can have varying degrees of severity. Dental phobia is a universal phenomenon, with nine to 20 percent of Americans refusing to visit their dentist because of fear. There are several ways for you to have dental phobia and feel anxious about getting dental treatments. Below are some of the most common reasons:
- Fear about specific treatments that cause dental pain
- The feeling of loss of control
- Anxiety about the intimacy of a checkup
- A previous negative experience at the dentist
- Phobia with needles
- The distaste of the sterile smell and the clinic environment as a whole
Fortunately, whatever your reasons for the discomfort might be, there are ways for you to deal with and overcome dental anxiety. It is important to remember that forgoing your regular dental checkups can be very damaging to your oral hygiene. So what can you do at your dental appointment if you are nervous? Try the suggestions below.
- Talk to your dentist. Perhaps the best way is to talk with your dentist before the treatment. Ask him as many questions as you can to have a thorough understanding of what to expect.
- Try the distraction technique. Because dental phobia is basically psychological, distracting yourself is a great strategy to use. Try to watch a DVD or listen to music to help you relax.
- Bring someone along. One great way to boost your confidence is to bring a friend for support. Most sufferers of dental anxiety feel better when they are not alone.
- Use the dental wand. A dental wand is a device that delivers local anesthetic without using the traditional needle injection. The want gradually numbs the gums, reducing any discomfort.
- Get yourself sedated. Dental sedation leaves you in a state of heightened tranquility, further relaxing you. This can come in the form of oral or intravenous sedatives.
Aside from the specific methods listed above, you might want to consider taking early appointments so you do not spend the whole day worrying about your appointment. Also, get regular checkups to diminish your unease and make you more used to being in the dental office. If you think you have dental anxiety, talk to your dentist to help you overcome your concerns, feelings, and fears with dental consultations and treatments.
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