If you fear going to the dentist, you are not alone. Between 9% and 15% of
Americans say they avoid going to the dentist because of anxiety or fear.
People with dental anxiety have a sense of uneasiness about the upcoming
dental appointment. They may also have exaggerated worries or fears.
Dental phobia is a more serious condition that leaves people panic-stricken
and terrified. People with dental phobia have an awareness that the fear is
totally irrational but are unable to do much to change this. They exhibit
classic avoidance behavior; that is, they will do everything possible to avoid
going to the dentist. People with dental phobia usually go to the dentist only
when forced to do so by extreme pain.
Other signs of dental phobia include:
- Trouble sleeping the night before the dental exam
- Feelings of nervousness that escalate while in the dental office waiting room
- Getting to the dental office but being unable to enter
- Crying or feeling physically ill at the very thought of visiting the dentist
- Intense uneasiness at the thought of, or actually when objects are
placed in your mouth during the dental appointment or suddenly feeling like it is difficult to breathe
Fortunately, there are ways to get people with dental anxiety and dental phobia to the dentist.
What causes dental phobia and anxiety?
There are many reasons why some people have dental phobia and anxiety. Some of the common reasons include:
Fear of pain – Fear of pain is a very common reason for avoiding the dentist.
This fear usually stems from an early dental experience that was unpleasant or
painful or from dental "pain and horror" stories told by others. Thanks to the
many advances in dentistry made over the years, most of today’s dental
procedures are considerably less painful or even pain free.
Fear of injections or fear the injection won’t work – Many people are
terrified of needles, especially when inserted into their mouth. Beyond this
fear, others fear that the anesthesia hasn’t yet taken effect or wasn’t a large
enough dose to knock out any pain before the dental procedure begins.
Fear of anesthetic side effects – Some people fear the potential side effects
of anesthesia such as dizziness, feeling faint, or nausea. Others don’t like the
numbness or "fat lip" associated with local anesthetics.
Feelings of helplessness and loss of control – It’s common for people to feel
these emotions considering the situation -- sitting in a dental chair with your
mouth wide open, unable to see what’s going on.