So what if you’re afraid of the dentist?! Can’t you just brush your teeth every day and be fine? Learn about the causes of dental fear and how a sedation dentist can help you overcome that fear.
What is dental anxiety?
First off, let’s address the elephant in the room.
There is no shame in being afraid of the dentist. In fact, it is estimated that 3 out of 4 people are afraid of the dentist.
Really, people who enjoy going to the dentist are a rare commodity in today’s society!
On the other hand, about 15% of Americans who are afraid of the dentist, report feeling what is described as a dental phobia or an unduly and irrational fear of visiting the dentist. This very real emotion becomes so intense that they simply choose to avoid dentists altogether.
As you can imagine of someone purposely avoiding yearly physical exams, something eventually could catch them by surprise and force them into serious and rigorous medical treatment.
Thus, avoiding the dentist thinking that your oral health will be in top shape all the time is not such a wise course.
Neglecting your oral health will most likely lead to damage that will cause more embarrassment and even life-threatening health problems down the line!
What causes such fear of dentists?
The Real Causes of Dental Fear and Anxiety
A fear of dentistry could spring form many things, mostly bad experiences in the past. Other factors that might contribute to excessive anxiety while at the dentist are:
- Overly-sensitive teeth
- Shame or embarrassment due to past criticism
- Hypersensitive gag-reflexes
- A phobia of needles, drilling sounds, or associated smells
- An aberration of pain
- Negative experiences in the past
- The sense of not being in control
- And many of the like
If you can identify with any of the above conditions, what tools do you have available to overcome your anxiety and get the gentle care you need?
Visit your sedation dentist in Harrisonburg, VA, Dr. Kenneth Eye II
You are not alone in how you feel. Nor are you left without options to overcome your fear. Dr. Kenneth Eye II welcomes new patients to experience a new type of dentistry, one that is relaxing and memorable.
If you have been avoiding your needed dental checkups, speak with us today. We will never judge, only help you to keep your smile safe, bright, and healthy.
During your dental visit, you and your sedation dentist in Harrisonburg, VA can see which options will work best for you in overcoming your fear.