Dentists Can Be Scary

Many people are scared of dentists. It’s so common in fact, that a person doesn’t even have to be traumatized by an adverse event at their oral healthcare provider in order to have an inherent fear of them. While jokes are common and the situation is often made light of, being afraid of the dentist is no laughing matter for some folks. So what can you do to overcome your fear and confidently get the oral healthcare that you need?

First, it’s important to look objectively at the situation. Is there a particular event in your past or specific reason you are afraid of dentists? There may not be a specific cause, but knowing a concrete reason can be the first step toward resolution.

It’s also important to take the time to find a dentist that you like and trust. There are a wide variety of dentists and each differ in their level of skill and bedside manner. If you like to talk to people with a good sense of humor that make you feel at ease, then it will be worth your time to find a casual and genial person to do your dental work. However, maybe jokes make you more nervous and it would be better to find a down-to-business professional to work on your teeth. It may be helpful to poll your friends and family for dentists that they like and reasons why they make them feel safe. Dental schools can also be a good source of information and referrals.

Remember that you always have the freedom to leave a dental office at any point if you are uncomfortable. Dentists and their assistants are there to help you and the professionals in their healthcare office should do their best to make you feel comfortable. Trauma and pain are not regular parts of a dental visit and should not be accepted as the norm. Keep your standards high and feel free to shop around to find a dentist that makes you feel safe and secure.

Another option that may be available to people who are afraid to get any dental work done is to ask about sedative dentistry. It is a form of medicated dentistry where the patient is relaxed and kept calm with either oral or IV drugs. It is a safe and popular way to get those teeth clean and healthy.

Next, be sure to visit your dentist regularly. This may sound counterintuitive for someone that is afraid of dentists, but regular visits mean your time – and dental work – with be less each time you walk through the door. Avoiding regular checkups can mean costly and painful dental work in your future. Simple cleanings and checkups every six months can go a long way to preventing major dental problems and keep your visits short.

And so, while many people are afraid of dentists, there are several things you can do to help resolve yourself of that fear. Contact an oral healthcare provider in your area today and make an appointment! Consider it the first step toward getting over your fear of dentists once and for all!