A little apprehension about going to the dentist is normal, but for some people, their misgivings can be downright debilitating. Fear of the dentist, also known as odontophobia, refers to a level of anxiety that can escalate to panic when going to the dentist - or even thinking about it. Persons who have a dental phobia often put off going to the dentist for years, much to the detriment of their oral health.
What follows is a discussion of the most common factors of a dental phobia, along with a potential solution to help quell or alleviate it:
1. Fear of Pain and Discomfort
This is the most common fear related to dental phobia. Educating oneself about the different ways your dentist can numb the area being worked on can go a long way in alleviating fear of pain. In most cases, patients feel no more than mild discomfort due to the numbing agents used during dental work. Sedation dentistry is also available in some dentist's offices.
2. Fear of the Unfamiliar
If this is the first time going to a particular dentist or an unfamiliar procedure is about to be undergone, imagination can sometimes be your worst enemy. Meeting the dentist beforehand or having a discussion with the hygienist about the upcoming procedure can help to dispel the mystery. Developing a more personal relationship with your dental professionals can help to build trust.
3. Trouble Breathing Through Your Nose
"Mouth breathers" or those afflicted with seasonal allergies may fear not being able to breathe through their mouth while in the dentist's chair. Taking an antihistamine, using nasal spray and/or adhesive nasal strips can help to open the nasal passages for free, unrestricted breathing while at the dentist.
4. Sensitive Gag Reflex
Getting x-rays can be trying for those with a very sensitive gag reflex. Fortunately, many dentist offices now have digital technologies that take panoramic x-rays with no need to hold an uncomfortable apparatus between the teeth.
5. Misgivings About the Dental Equipment
The tools and machinery used in modern dentistry can be intimidating to some patients, especially children. Asking your dental professional to explain the use of each instrument in layman's terms can help to promote a higher comfort level.
6. Fear or Queasiness About Noises During Dental Work
Some people are put off by the sounds of the dental drill or even the cleaning equipment. Wearing ear plugs or playing music on headphones can help the dental visit to be a more pleasant experience. If you or someone you know suffers from severe dental anxiety or a dental phobia, it's most likely related to one or more of these six factors. Consider the solutions presented, and have a much less stressful time at the dentist.
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