Putting an End to Dental Anxiety

Do you feel a sense of panic at the thought of a visit to the dentist? Does a man in a white coat with bright lights and sharp tools give you a scare? If you answered yes, you’re not alone. Millions of people across the globe suffer from dentist anxiety. In fact, some people are so afraid, they avoid the dentist completely, putting their oral and total health at significant risk. Overcoming distress over dental visits is not easy, but it is possible.  For some, it may require professional help or visiting a specialty dentist. For others, understanding why they fear the dentist can be a stepping-stone to ending the fear associated with the dentist. Following are some common causes of dental anxiety:

• Fear of pain and discomfort. A survey of adults ages 24 and older revealed that six percent of people in this age group avoid the dentist over fear of pain. Subjects had skipped a full year of dental visits to avoid the possibility of discomfort in the dentist’s chair. Researchers speculate that this may be related to traumatic dental experiences prior to current advances in dentistry. These advances now deliver a relatively pain-free dental experience for a majority of patients.

• Negative dental experiences in the past. Previous dental experiences that were a particular source of discomfort—mental or physical—can ignite dental anxiety that transcends the years. Whether it was extensive pain or bad service, it can be tough to overcome such memories.  Professional counseling may be necessary to reverse the dentist anxiety.

• Feeling embarrassed. Crooked teeth, bad breath, and stains can lead many people to feel embarrassed about a dental visit. For some people, having a stranger poke around in their mouths can feel invasive. This fear leads them to skip visits. However, you should know that your dentist is not judging you, but is there to help you overcome your dental anxiety and keep you in good health.

• Feeling vulnerable. Many phobias are correlated with a person’s belief that they have no control over the situation. When reclined in the dentist’s chair, a light shining in your eyes, mouth agape, and someone standing over you with sharp tools, asking you not to move, well, you may feel a little vulnerable and not in control. Some people get anxious in situations like this and skip visits to the dentist to avoid this scenario.

To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in Flint, call Family Dental Group today at (810) 515-8952 or make an appointment.

Family Dental Group offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in Flint. With 4 affiliated practices throughout Flint, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At Family Dental Group, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at Family Dental Group.