TOOTH SMART DENTAL BLOG

Are you scared of the Dentist?

How many times have you said to yourself, or your family/friends that you HATE DENTISTS? If you are afraid of going to the dentist, you are not alone. So many people dread the thought/idea of going to the dentist so much that it stops them from getting the dental care they need. This results in failure to get preventative check up and cleans, which will eventually result in serious neglect of oral health causing pain or loss of teeth. Do we really want that? No, Absolutely NOT!!!

That is why you need to look into the different options that are available to help you overcome your fear of Dentists or bad past dental experiences.

Let us first look at the root cause of the problem, or in other words, what causes that fear.

It could be different reason for different people but the most common reasons for dental phobia are:

  • Pain:

Pain is the most important and most common factor.

Sometimes just the thought of getting a needle or use of a sharp instrument can instigate a painful reaction. Let’s be honest, nobody wants to experience physical pain. This may put off someone from getting the oral care that they need

  • Bad past Dental Experience:

If someone has had a bad past dental experience, then it is going to scar there memory forever, especially if one encounters pain during or after getting dental treatment done. This can make them believe that all dental visits will be painful or unpleasant and they may not want to visit the dentist ever again.

  • Embarrassment:

Some people are too embarrassed to go to the dentist because they have bad teeth or poor gums or too many holes. This usually happens because of the dental neglect in the past. It results in dental neglect in the present and future as well, this cycle of dental neglect will keep repeating itself unless they decide to get over the embarrassment and see a dentist.

  • Phobia:

When you are lying in the dental chair, you are giving someone some control over yourself. This can bring about anxiety issues in some people.

If any of the above are stopping you from getting the dental care that you know you need, then give us a call on 07 3399 6228. The best thing you can do is talk about your dental fear or anxiety to our dentist and our friendly staff. We try our best to understand your dental fears without judging you. We can then help you with a dental plan that can make you feel very comfortable and relaxed at your dental visit.

What you need to do to overcome your dental fear or anxiety?

  • Talk to us

No question is a silly question. So, talk to us, discuss your dental fear or anxiety. Once we know the reason behind it, we can then make a plan to suit your specific circumstances to help you overcome that fear.

  • Sedation Dentistry

There are different types of sedation methods available these days. We offer inhalation sedation (also commonly known as happy/laughing gas). May people believe it is only for kids or pregnant ladies, but it is actually very helpful in making you feel less anxious and more relaxed and calm at your dental appointment. We are more than happy to talk to you more about it if you give us a call.

  • Music

Many people like a distraction when they are getting their dental treatment done. It helps them to take their mind off what is going on in their mouth. We do offer media to watch while you are lying in the dental chair. You are more than welcome to bring in your headphones and your favourite music to listen to.

  • Meditation

Meditation is a very good way of relaxing the anxious mind. We suggest you practice meditation a few weeks prior to your visit. Especially, deep breathing is a very well known method for calming yourself.

  • Medication

You can take oral sedatives one hour prior to your dental visit after consultation with your general practitioner.

  • Therapy or Counselling

If none of the above seems to work for you, then you can look into some counselling services/theory for example Hypnotism.

Call (07) 3399 6228