It’s one of the most common phobias in the world, and it can keep people from seeking out much-needed dental care. Why do people fear the dentist? Whether it’s due to previous negative experiences or simply hearing scary stories from friends, there are millions of people who avoid going to the dentist altogether because they’re scared. If this sounds like you, don’t worry – you’re not alone!
Fear of pain at the dentist
This is another common fear that can keep people from seeking dental care. It’s true that dentists do a lot of things that can be uncomfortable or painful, but there are ways to minimize this. If this is one of your major concerns, speak to the dentist about it. Openly communicating your fears will help them find the right solution for you.
Fear of needles
For some people, the fear of needles is even greater than the fear of pain. It is called trypanophobia, and affects as much as 25% of the population. If this is your fear, be sure to let the dentist know. They may be able to use a different type of anesthesia that doesn’t involve needles.
Bad experiences at the dentist
This is one of the most common sources of anxiety – particularly going all the way back to childhood. If you’ve had a bad experience in the past, it’s natural to be scared of going back. But remember that not all dentists are the same – there are plenty of great ones out there who will make you feel comfortable and at ease.
Not only are dentists doing their best to address concerns like this for people, but technology has also improved. Much of this technology makes going to the dentist less invasive and uncomfortable than ever before.
Fear of unknown at the dentist
This is a common fear that applies to many different aspects of life. When you don’t know what to expect, it’s natural to feel scared or anxious. Unfortunately, the dental world is one that a lot of people know very little about. And because of that, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or confused when you start thinking about making an appointment.
Again, this is where doing your research comes in handy. Talk to your friends and family members who have gone to the dentist recently – what are some of the good experiences they have had with dentists? What made their experience better?
Nightmare scenarios
Many people hear terrible stories on the news or dream up terrible scenarios of their own that make them scared to go to the dentist. While it’s important to be aware of potential risks, it’s also important not to let these scare you away from getting the dental care you need. You are at much greater risk from not being treated than you are from some sort of mistake that may happen.
Remember that the vast majority of dentists are highly skilled professionals who want nothing more than for their patients to have a good experience. If you’re still feeling anxious, talk to your dentist about it – they may be able to provide some reassurance and guidance.
How to get over your fear of the dentist
There are many reasons why people fear the dentist, but it’s important to remember that there are ways to address these fears. Here are some of the best ways to deal with your fears and get the dental care you need:
- Talk to your dentist about your fears. This is the best way to start addressing them. Dentists are skilled professionals who want nothing more than for their patients to have a good experience. They will be more than happy to talk with you and help you find a solution that works for you.
- Consider sedation or sleep dentistry. If you are really struggling with your fear of the dentist, sedation or sleep dentistry may be a good option for you. This type of dentistry involves using medication to help you relax and feel calm during your appointment.
- Do your research. Knowing what to expect from a dental appointment can go a long way in helping you overcome your fear.
- Get comfortable with the dental environment. Familiarizing yourself with the sights and sounds of a dental office can help you feel more at ease when you are there.
- Consider dental phobia clinics. If your fear of the dentist is really holding you back, there may be a clinic near you that specializes in helping people with dental phobias.
- Get regular dental care. This may seem like an impossible task if you are scared of the dentist. However, by staying proactive with your dental care, you are decreasing the risk of needing extensive dental restoration procedures.
Conclusion
If you are one of those people who fear the dentist, remember that you are not alone. Many people share your fear of the dentist. You can find support from friends, family members, and online communities who understand what you are going through.