| By :
Mark Etinger
Are you afraid of going to the dentist? You're not alone. Some survey's estimate over 80% of American's experience anxiety over going to the dentist… regardless of how many dental hygiene products they use. In this article, we'll examine "Dentophobia" and ways you or your loved one can conquer their fear of dentists. The first step with a broad fear…. as it is with most phobias… is to discover what aspect it is that creates anxiety for you. Did you have a troubled past experience? Do the sights, sounds, and smells of dentist supplies give you the creeps? Or is it the idea that someone is sticking dental supplies deep into your mouth, up-close-and-personal with an intimate part of your face that makes you uncomfortable? It could even be anxiety over the cost of the examination. Whatever it is, it's important you discover what specific aspect is causing these emotions. There are several basic options for those experiencing lower levels of anxiety during their trips to the dentist. Some people create a hand-signal with their dentist that symbolizes their requesting the dentist stop. Often patients don't even need to use the hand-signal, they just feel an increased level of comfort knowing that the "stop" option exists. Some basic options intended for distraction purposes include listening to headphones or watching television. For those with a seemingly unconquerable fear of dental procedures, there is always the option of being sedated. Some patients feel uncomfortable requesting sedation from their dentist, a discomfort they should not experience, since as we previously mentioned, vast majorities of American's are afraid of their dentist. For some people, sedation means taking an anxiety pill a little before your appointment. For others, it could mean Lorazepam or nitrous oxide, i.e. "laughing gas." These dentist supplies are specifically designed to make your visit an anxiety-free one. Of course, all of these tips and bits of advice are irrelevant if you don't trust your dentist. That's why it's stressed that you find a dentist that is not only professional and courteous, but he or she has your complete and utter trust. If you have even the slightest ill-will towards the person charged with supplying your dental hygiene products, it's time to find someone new. You'll never conquer your fear of your dentist if you don't even like them. If you're looking for someone new, ask your friends and relatives they go to. Specifically, ask individuals who are aware of your anxiety in seeing a dentist. Explain to them what it is you've discovered that makes you nervous about seeing the dentist, and use them to help you find the doctor that's right for you. Remember: Just because a dentist helped your friend conquer their fears, don't necessarily mean they're right to help you conquer yours. Make sure your new dentist is experienced in assisting with the problems YOU are going to have to face. By attacking the problems and fear head on, you'll be well on your way to helping yourself conquer the fear and anxiety you experience when going to your dentist.
|
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://www.articlesbacklink.com/images/icon_Rss.png "XML Feed For RSS"){kind=icon}
Category Rss Feed
Print This Article
Add To Favorites
