Fear can be inhibiting, if not debilitating. However, if you experience dental fear, phobia, or anxiety, you may be able to overcome these feelings under the care of a compassionate, understanding, gentle dentist who believes that dental fear is real, not imagined.
After all, you deserve to enjoy a healthy, strong, beautiful smile and high quality of life–just like everyone else. You deserve teeth that don’t ache and gums that don’t bleed. If you fear going to the dentist, the team at Signature Smile Arts of Homewood is here to help restore your oral health and function, as well as your faith in good dentistry.
If you’re nervous about an office visit, start with a virtual consultation. Sign up online, and if you’d like to speak with us, call 708-799-5353.
How Many People Fear Dental Visits?
You are not alone. Studies suggest that between 13 and 24% of the global population experiences anxiety; they fear going to the dentist.
We should be able to trust our dentists. A 2012 poll by Bray Leino reported that 88% of people trust their dentists, a higher number than those who trust their physicians. Still, this means that 12% do not trust their dentists. So why do so many people fear going to the dentist?
Great question!
Why Patients are Scared of Dental Appointments
Each person’s experience is unique, but here are six of the most common reasons people fear going to the dentist.
- Pain in the past: A bad experience with dental treatment can cause a type of PTSD in which those fears drive current action, namely avoiding dental treatments.
- Needles, drills, and pain: Many people have a fear of needles, of the sound and vibration of the dental drill, or encountering pain. Some say dental pain is one of the worst types of pain, so some anxiety is natural. Debilitating anxiety is not healthy.
- Not feeling in control: Some folks get anxious if they’re not behind the wheel of their car. The same is true of dentistry. Lying back in the dentist’s chair with his hands in your mouth can spark a sense of loss of control.
- Embarrassment over oral health: Regardless of the reasons, if your oral health is poor, you may not want dental professionals learning the truth. While embarrassment is natural, we want you to know that stepping into a lifestyle that promotes good oral health can change your life! We are proud of patients who decide to start moving in a healthier direction, so please don’t feel shy about allowing us to do our job. You’re making a wise choice for your future!
- Anxiety about what the dentist may uncover: If you suspect you may need treatment like root canal therapy, extractions, or dental implants, your mind may want to delay learning about the state of your oral health. Fear of expense and pain can feel very uncomfortable. However, we’ll work with you to find attainable solutions to restore your oral health and your unique, beautiful smile.
- A general tendency toward anxiety in life: If you have an anxious nature, the sights, sounds, and scents in a dental office could cause anxiety to increase. We can take measures to help mitigate anxiety during dental appointments if you tell us how you feel.
Why Is Fear of the Dentist So Intense?
Two things come together when a person is scared of the dentist. First, anxiety can initiate a fight, flight, or freeze response in which your nervous system causes physical expressions, like sweating, a racing heart, and tension in the body. Second, visiting a dentist can cause memories of a bad experience to resurface, reinforcing your feelings of fear, over time.
Three things can relieve tense nerves while you’re at Signature Smile Arts of Homewood.
- The dentist will explain what he is going to do before beginning anything. He will stop and respond if you raise your hand during a procedure, just to make certain you’re as comfortable as possible. Don’t feel obligated to hold back your questions or concerns. We are always, always happy to talk through your feelings and adjust accordingly.
- When the nervous system is on high alert, soothing sounds like calming music, a podcast, or an audio book via headphones can distract you from the dentist’s work. Deep, rhythmic breathing and/or using a stress ball or fidget toy will help relieve some anxiety.
- Positive reinforcement takes time, but if you continue attending six-month checkups and cleanings and nothing bad occurs, eventually your mind will realize that Signature Smile Arts is a safe place. It’s best to schedule your visits at times when you won’t feel rushed or tired, because these situations increase stress.
We’re Here to Help You Overcome Fear of the Dentist
Right now, you can schedule an initial consultation in person or virtually as the first essential step toward good oral health, better overall health, and comfortable oral function. Our kind, gentle dental team considers fearful patients to be very brave for prioritizing oral health over their feelings.
Rest assured, we will walk beside you and do all we can to make your experience at Signature Smile Arts of Homewood a positive, rewarding time. We look forward to earning your trust.
