Millions of people across the country suffer from dental anxiety. Dental anxiety can prevent people from seeking the dental care they need to keep their smiles healthy and looking good. Dental anxiety is a real problem that should not be ignored. If you struggle with dental anxiety, we encourage you to confront your fears with knowledge and helpful coping tools.

What is Dental Anxiety?

Dental anxiety is any form of fear or apprehension produced by the thought of visiting the dentist. Dental phobia, dental fear, or Odontophobia are other common names for dental anxiety. According to the World Health Organization, more than 20% of the adult population suffers from Odontophobia or another form of dental anxiety.

It is also important to note that there is a clear difference between having dental anxiety and having a phobia like Odontophobia. Someone with dental anxiety may express displeasure with a dental appointment but still show up, while someone with a phobia may be too scared even to make the appointment.

Who is Most Likely to Suffer from Dental Anxiety?

There are several reasons why someone may suffer from dental anxiety. Here are a few of the most common ones we have found.

• Children
• Mental health disorders (depression, anxiety, etc.)
• Major dental work required
• Bad experiences in the past

How to Treat Dental Anxiety

Fortunately, if you suffer from dental anxiety, there are things you can do to help elevate the effects symptoms. Treating your dental anxiety is the best way to keep your oral health in check. Here are some things that make a hug difference in combating dental anxiety.

Having an Attentive Care Team

A significant source of dental anxiety is feeling a lack of control over the situation. If you had a better understanding of the dental procedures and how they will impact you will help you reduce any dental anxiety. For example, our dental team at Main Street Dental will often take breaks during a dental procedure to explain what we are doing and give you an opportunity to rest or ask any questions you may have.

Using Modern Technology

The world of technological innovation is booming. One industry that has enjoyed major leaps forward is the dental industry. Thanks to dental technology, many procedures that used to take a significant amount of time or caused discomfort have been replaced with quicker and more comfortable measures.

Your Next Steps

Dental care is not only important for your oral health but your overall health as well. That is why it is vital to take care of your teeth. Here at Main Street Dental, we understand that dental anxiety can be tough to get through. That is why we provide ourselves in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere to relieve your anxiety. Our team of professional staff will work with you to make sure you are comfortable every step of the way.

When it comes to things like dental anxiety and understanding the health of your teeth it is best for your overall oral health not to wait. Schedule an appointment with our general and family dentistry team by clicking Contact or call now: 503-665-8283.