Dental phobia goes beyond normal anxiety. It can make people feel terrified and panic-stricken although they know their fear is irrational. Someone with the dental phobia will demonstrate avoidance behavior by doing everything in their power to avoid the dentist’s chair. In fact, they will only do so if compelled by extreme dental pain.
The cause of dental phobia
- Fear of injections. Many individuals can’t handle the idea of being stuck by a needle, especially when it is being put in their mouth. Beyond that, there is the fear of anesthesia not taking full effect.
- Fear of pain. It is very common for people to have this fear. It typically originates from a bad dental experience they had earlier in life where they felt pain.
- Fear of feeling helpless. Sitting in a dental chair can create a certain amount of helplessness because you can’t see what’s going on.
- Fear of embarrassment. Some people have difficulty with the proximity the dentist or hygienist has to their face. In other cases, they may feel embarrassed by their teeth.
How to deal with dental phobia
The trick to dealing with the dental phobia is to talk about it with your dentist. In extreme cases, therapy may be needed, but typically a conversation with your dentist will ease many of your fears. If your dentist knows about your dental phobia, they will be able to know how to best approach your dental visits to make you feel at ease. If your dentist doesn’t take your dental phobia seriously, find another dentist.
As you talk with your dentist about your fears, you will find that a lot of tension is dismissed. Have your dentist review what will happen during your dental visit and talk with you during the procedure itself. This will enable you to mentally prepare for the visit.
Schedule a consultation
Talk to our team at Broadway Family Dentistry about your dental anxieties and concerns. We understand that dental phobia is a very real thing and are here to help you. You can contact us at 701-839-1299. We look forward to assisting you.
