Dental Phobia

Dental phobia or dentophobia keeps many from getting much needed dental care.

Do you love going to the dentist? God bless you....you are in the minority. Most of us find ourselves in the middle of the road.... don't love or hate it but get through our dental visits just fine.

However, you may afraid or even traumatized at the thought of stepping into a dental office.

Whether the dentist or hygienist annoy you or you are seriously afraid, visit this

dental fear forum to share your story or hear how others have overcome dental fear.

Reasons for fear

Maybe you had a very unpleasant dental appointment. Now you don't want to go back....to any dentist or hygienist.

Unfortunately there are some bad dentists and dental hygienists out there. One bad dentist can do so much damage not only to his client but to everyone they tell. Bad dental news travels fast.

Because most dentists and hygienist understand how important it is for you to have a good experience, your comfort is a high priority. If you hate going to the dentist so much that you stay away for 10 years we have done more harm than good.

Sedation dentistry is the only way for some dental fears to be overcome. Others may just need a few distractions along with a little patience and understanding.

Heard it from a friend:

If you hear about a bad dentist or hygienist don't write us all off. Keep asking around until you find someone who loves their dentist or hygienist. We are out there and we want to take good care of you...painlessly.

Can't get numb:

No doubt some people take longer to get numb. Dental anesthetics have come a long way. There are more choices. Old fashioned novacaine has been replaced. Newer anesthetics work better and quicker. Getting numb is doable and shouldn't be a deal breaker for you.

Some suggestions:

• Use an ipod - replace dental noises with your favorite tunes.
• Watch a movie - some offices have monitors mounted on the ceiling for easy viewing from the chair.
• Ask to sit up - if you are a little claustrophobic being flat on your back adds stress. A good dentist or hygienist will accommodate you.
• Lights out - turn off bright flourescent lights. The dental light provides enough light to work and is focused on your mouth....not in your eyes.
• Room with a view - find an office with lots of windows. Natural light makes you happy and helps you relax. A nice view? All the better.

Medications

• Nitrous oxide - laughing gas is not funny but does take the edge off your dental anxiety. Sometimes there is an extra charge for nitrous...well worth it if it helps.
• Numbing rinse - for scaling and root planing or deep cleanings sometimes all you need is a numbing rinse. No needles!
• Oraqix - a numbing gel that is painlessly placed in your gum pocket before scaling and root planing.

• Local anesthetics - we don't use novacaine anymore. Lidocaine or septocaine are the best choices.
• Sedation dentistry - also known as sleep dentistry. Wake me up when it's over...you don't really sleep. Just seems like it.

You can absolutely overcome dental phobia. Find a gentle, caring, and patient dentist or hygienist who is experienced in helping anxious patients. Good dentists and hygienists love nothing more than helping you make dentophobia a thing of the past:)

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