Dentophobia: It’s a Real Thing!
Unfortunately, many people harbor a fear of dentists. Studies suggest that up to 60% of the population experience dental anxiety or dentophobia, a fear of dentists and dental treatments. This fear can stem from various sources: 39% of people are scared of potential pain, 24% are disturbed by the smell of chemicals, and 21% are alarmed by the sound of the dental drill. For some, this anxiety can build up before a dental appointment, leading to sleepless nights and even palpitations.
This fear often leads individuals to avoid visiting the dentist until absolutely necessary, usually when the tooth is severely decayed and possibly beyond saving. This delay can result in more complicated and extensive treatments.
If you feel that fear is preventing you from visiting the dentist, consider scheduling a consultation appointment to discuss your concerns with your dentist. There are several strategies to help manage dental anxiety:
- Meet and Greet Appointment: Familiarize yourself with the dental environment and staff to alleviate initial fears.
- Anti-Anxiety Medications: In some cases, your dentist can prescribe anti-anxiety pills to take the night before your appointment.
- Herbal Essential Oils: Natural remedies like herbal essential oils can help ease anxiety.
- Local Anesthetic: To ensure a painless procedure, a local anesthetic can be applied to the treatment area.
- Noise-Cancelling Headsets: These can help reduce the stress caused by the sound of the dental drill.
At Legacy Dental, we understand the importance of a smooth and stress-free journey from your appointment booking to your return home. We offer one-stop appointment bookings and direct, in-person care to ensure you have a great experience with us. We are dedicated to making your visit as comfortable and pleasant as possible.
After all, at Legacy Dental, we say: Let’s Smile Together!