Many people experience some level of fear or anxiety when going to the dentist. This is completely normal and understandable. However, being overly scared of the dentist can lead to avoiding necessary dental care, resulting in more serious oral health issues down the road. So is there truly any reason to be scared of the dentist? Let’s explore some common fears and whether they are justified.
Fear of Pain
One of the most common reasons people are afraid to go to the dentist is fear of pain during procedures. This is understandable – few people look forward to physical discomfort. However, there are a few factors that make dental pain today less of an issue than in the past:
- Modern dentistry focuses heavily on pain prevention and management. Dentists have access to advanced local anesthetics, nitrous oxide, and other pharmacological comfort measures.
- Many common procedures, like cleanings and checkups, should not cause any pain at all.
- For procedures that may cause some discomfort, like fillings or extractions, the dentist will fully numb the area first. You should feel only pressure, not pain.
- Dental technology has progressed to where many procedures are much less invasive and traumatic than in decades past. Lasers, for example, can make things like gum disease treatment virtually painless.
While dental pain is never fun, in most cases your dentist has the tools to ensure you stay comfortable during care. Make sure to communicate any concerns about pain beforehand.
Fear of Specific Procedures
Some patients have an exaggerated fear around specific types of dental procedures, such as getting a filling, root canal, or tooth extraction. These fears may stem from a previous bad experience, stories they’ve heard, or perceptions propagated in pop culture.
However, modern techniques make many dental procedures far less unpleasant than in the past. For example:
- Fillings can now be placed quickly and painlessly thanks to dental lasers and advanced local anesthetics.
- Root canals are performed under numbness and have a reputation for being more painful than they really are today. They resolve tooth pain rather than cause it.
- Extractions are smoother now with 3D imaging for precision, lasers, and stitches to speed healing. The area will be fully numbed during the procedure.
The best way to overcome fear of specific procedures is through education. Ask your dentist to explain exactly what modern techniques they use to maximize comfort and minimize invasiveness. Knowing what to expect can help ease your mind.
Fear of Gagging
Gagging is another common fear patients experience, especially during procedures like impressions or x-rays that require placing objects or devices in the mouth. This is an understandable concern – gagging can be both uncomfortable and embarrassing.
However, there are a few ways dentists can help prevent or manage gagging:
- Using a numbing spray on the throat before impressions.
- Prioritizing your comfort by working slowly and carefully.
- Offering a stress ball or raising your hand as a signal to pause the procedure.
- Placing x-ray films toward the front of the mouth rather than far back on the tongue.
It’s also important to keep in mind that dentists are very accustomed to patients gagging and it does not phase them. Making them aware of your concern and using hand signals allows them respond quickly at the first sign of any discomfort.
Fear of Embarrassment
People may worry about embarrassing themselves at the dentist by gagging, crying out in pain, or even feeling ashamed about the state of their oral health. It’s important to remember that you should not feel embarrassment at the dentist. Dentists are health professionals who focus only on treating you, not judging you.
Some tips to overcome embarrassment:
- Remember that dentists have seen it all – you won’t say or do anything they haven’t seen before.
- Tell them upfront if you have any fears or concerns so they can be sensitive to making you comfortable.
- Focus on your health, not on judgments – you are doing the right thing by getting treatment.
- Ask for breaks during prolonged procedures if you feel you may need a moment to compose yourself.
There is no need for embarrassment at the dentist. They are there to help you, not critique you.
Fear of Judgment on Oral Health
In a similar vein, some worry about dentists judging them or being upset over the state of their oral health if they have not been to the dentist in many years or have numerous dental problems.
It is important to keep in mind that dentists do not judge their patients – their job is to help you improve your oral health at whatever stage you are at. An honest dentist wants to educate you on how to achieve excellent oral health. Be open about any anxieties you have around your oral health and you’ll find most dentists are happy to meet you where you are and create a health plan without any judgment. No matter what state your mouth is in, taking that first step to get into the dentist’s chair is something to be proud of.
Fear of Dental Equipment
Seeing the complex equipment in a dentist’s office can instill fear in some people. However, dental technology has improved dramatically in terms of both comfort and efficacy as compared to decades past.
Modern dental tools are designed to maximize patient comfort and efficiency. Some examples include:
- Lasers that vibrate molecules for a nearly painless alternative to drill-based procedures.
- Wand anesthesia that slowly administers numbing medication comfortably.
- 3D imaging scanners that capture highly detailed digital maps of your mouth.
- Quiet suction systems that efficiently remove saliva and debris.
The high-tech dental equipment actually allows dentists to perform procedures with less drilling and discomfort than historically required. Rather than something to be feared, the technology can help make your visit as smooth and comfortable as possible. Ask your dentist to explain what every piece of equipment does to help demystify the tools and understand their benefit to your care.
Claustrophobia
Having one’s mouth stretched open or procedures done in a small space can cause anxiety for some people. Tell your dentist beforehand if you experience claustrophobia or dental phobia. They can help in a few key ways:
- Allow you to take breaks and signal if you need a moment.
- Suggest anti-anxiety medication to take beforehand if highly fearful.
- Equip you with eye covers and headphones to minimize sensory input.
- Offer laughing gas/nitrous oxide to induce relaxation.
Additionally, communicating your fears allows the dentist to avoid putting your head in positions that trigger anxiety, like tilting you horizontally or placing their hands on both sides of your jaw in a way that mirrors a claustrophobic feeling.
Fear of Being Scolded
People sometimes worry about getting scolded by the dentist for not flossing enough, having poor oral hygiene habits, or failing to make recommended appointments. However, a good dentist should never scold, shame, or lecture a patient. Their role is to educate and encourage, not criticize.
Rather than scolding, a compassionate dentist will:
- Ask open-ended questions to learn about your habits and challenges.
- Remain understanding that obstacles like finances or busy schedules make good home care difficult for many people.
- Develop an oral hygiene plan that works for your individual lifestyle and needs.
- Congratulate small improvements and celebrate successes.
The dentist’s office should be a supportive environment, not one where patients feel chastised. If you have a dentist who makes you feel judged or shamed, consider finding one who better understands your needs.
Fear of a Surprise Big Bill
Finally, some people avoid the dentist due to fear of an expensive treatment plan or unforeseen bill they cannot afford. This is understandable – dental costs can be intimidating.
However, a good dentist aims to help patients manage costs in a few key ways:
- Providing a detailed treatment plan with expected costs upfront so there are no surprises.
- Offering payment plans or financing options to break costs into affordable increments.
- Suggesting alternative treatment options at different price points when feasible.
- Filing insurance claims on your behalf to maximize coverage.
- Offering discounts for patients who pay in cash.
Being proactive and communicating concerns about costs goes a long way as well. Ask questions upfront about expected expenses, get cost estimates in writing, seek clarification on insurance coverage, and work with your dentist to find the most affordable way to achieve good oral health. This can help avoid putting off needed care.
Conclusion
While it is normal to feel some anxiety about going to the dentist, avoiding dental care out of fear can create much bigger problems down the road. The good news is most fears people have are understandable, but able to be managed with the right dentist using modern techniques to maximize comfort.
Finding an office where you can openly communicate your concerns is key to addressing those worries. With a dentist you trust, even once feared procedures can be made smooth and tolerable. Prioritize your oral health, communicate your needs, and know the power is in your hands to find a dentist you feel comfortable with.