Fear of the Dentist
We all need to go to the dentist, but, for some, this can lead to insurmountable levels of fear and anxiety. This can cause not only a fear of the dentist, but also, unease at anything to do with dental care. A common thing people say when they fear going to the dentist is that it is too expensive. True, the dentist can be costly, but this is usually a cover for the underlying feelings of fear. This section aims to help you overcome your fear of the dentist, in order for your teeth to get the dental care that they deserve.
Don’t leave it till it’s too late
Even if a person who holds a fear of the dentist has a problem with their teeth, they will still likely leave it until there it is too late. This can then lead to further traumatic experiences at the dentist, due to the dental treatment needed, which will only impact negatively on the person’s fear.
What causes a fear of the dentist?
There are many reasons why people hold a fear of the dentist, and they are more common than you may think:
- Negative stories - As you grow up you are bound to hear many horrifying stories about visits to the dentist. This can lead to some people being fearful when their next dentist appointment comes around.
- Fear of needles - You may hold a fear of needles. This will not only affect your dental treatment but also that given at the hospital. A fear of anaesthetic is also quite common.
- The unknown - This is mainly found in children who have not been to the dentist before. On a child’s first visit to the dentist the whole scenario may seem quite daunting to them, what with all the strange instruments and people in white coats. It is therefore best to take your child with you on your check ups before they even have an appointment, in order to demonstrate that there is nothing to fear about the dentist.
- Pain - If on your last visit to the dentist you had a tooth removed, then you will likely have experienced some level of pain. This can then cause an aversion to future visits to the dentist.
How to overcome your fear
Though it may not seem plausible, you can overcome your fear of the dentist:
- Search for a sympathetic dentist - Your dentist practitioner does not need to be your worst enemy. By finding a dentist who specialises in the treatment of fearful patients, the whole experience can be made easier. Do not be afraid to inform your dentist if you are afraid, as they will then be able to assess your previous dental work and find a way to put you at ease. A caring and communicative dentist is essential.
- Special sedation service - There are some dentists who offer a sedation service in order to help you relax during dental treatment. This will be given by way of gas or intravenous methods. The patient will still be able to communicate.
- Trust - If you are to be relaxed while at the dentist then you must be trustful of your dentist. It is up to you and your dentist to build up this trust. As long as your dentist is caring of your fear then this trust can easily develop.
- Comfortable setting - If your dentist is in a dilapidated condition, the employees are not very nice or the waiting room is overrun with crying children, then this can lead to an aversion of the dentist. Shop around for a dentist where you feel more comfortable in the surroundings.
- Be open - Do not hide your fear from your dental practitioner. This will only lead to your anxieties worsening. Be open of your fear and your dentist can then help you to get through it.
- Therapy - It may seem like a dramatic step, but if you are unable to go to the dentist due to fear then this may be the best option. A therapist can help you to get to the root of your fear and help you overcome it.
