If you suffer from dental phobia, you’re not alone. Unfortunately, this kind of anxiety and fear can affect your oral and overall health. Failing to receive dental care eventually leads to serious consequences, like cavities, gum disease, bone and tooth loss, and even health conditions that plague the body. Learn what keeps you from getting the care you need so that you can overcome your dental phobia for good.
What Are the Reasons for Dental Phobia?
In a 2013 study titled “Why Are People Afraid of the Dentist? Observations and Explanations,” researchers found that dental phobia is often the result of “exogenous factors,” which can include trauma experiences, media portrayals, and even personality traits.
Some of the most common reasons for this problem include:
- Past dental trauma
- Depression or generalized anxiety
- Fear of losing control or feeling helpless
- Invasion of personal space
- Fear of needles
- Inability to handle the sights, sounds, and smells of a dentist’s office
- A sensitive or strong gag reflex
How Can You Overcome Your Fears?
To avoid declining oral health as a result of your dental phobia, it’s important that you identify ways to overcome your fear. You can practice deep breathing or meditation, but you can also inquire about bringing headphones so that you can listen to music as a form of distraction.
Another solution is sedation. Nitrous oxide can help “take the edge off” while in the treatment chair. Its effects come quickly once the odorless gas is inhaled, creating a comfortable experience. The best part is that once the gas is turned off and the nasal mask is removed, the effects wear off in no time.
Oral conscious sedation is taken as a pill and produces a deep state of relaxation, keeping you unfazed by the events of your appointment. The effects do take longer to wear off and require you to have someone drive you home.
No matter which type of sedation your dentist recommends, or what other types of relaxation you may try to alleviate your dental fears, trust that there is a solution that will work for you. Allowing your dentist to be your ally in this pursuit will ensure you get the oral healthcare you need.
About the Author
Dr. Scott Olson attended the University of Florida Dental School, where he earned his dental degree. After passing his board exams, he and his wife returned to Missouri, and he has since pursued continuing education through the Kois Center, the Dawson Academy, and the Engle Institute. Offering sedation dentistry to those who suffer from phobias, fears, and anxiety surrounding dental care, we aim to create positive, healthy, and comfortable experiences in our office.
If you need help to overcome your dental phobia and enjoy life with better oral health, visit our website or call (417) 823-4900 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Olson.