Overcoming Dental Phobia

Dental phobia is a common issue in people of all ages. It is an intense fear of going to the dentist, which can prevent individuals from seeking dental care even when they really need it. As a result, they have to live with discomfort and pain, and sometimes may even result in deteriorating oral health.

The good news is that there is a way to treat dental phobia with only a little bit of effort!

Understanding Dental Phobia

Dental phobia may seem silly to someone who doesn’t struggle with it, but it can lead to extreme stress and anxiety for those who do experience it. The fear can become so overwhelming that it may delay or even prevent dental checkups and treatments, which can have severe consequences in the long run.

Overcoming Dental Phobia

There are several causes of dental phobia.

• Previous traumatic experiences
• Fear of pain
• Embarrassment
• Not knowing what to expect

To overcome the issue, the first step is to find a dentist who can handle patients with dental anxiety. The goal is to provide these patients with an environment that they feel more comfortable in, where the dentist understands their perspective.

Gradual exposure can be a great way to ease the fear a bit. Scheduling short, non-invasive appointments can help you become more accustomed to the dental setting, so when you go back for a more extensive procedure, you feel more relaxed.

You may also want to discuss your concerns with your dentist. They can help you deal with the pain, let you know exactly what is to be done and how, and teach you how to relax during your visit.

It can also help to have a trusted friend or family member accompany you to provide emotional support.

At Meadows Family Dentistry, we always take great care to ensure our patients are comfortable and feel safe during the process. You can always let us know when something is bothering you, and we’ll do our best to alleviate the stress you may be feeling.