Dentophobia, the fear of dentists, often poses a significant barrier to receiving essential dental care through regular visits. Surprising as it may sound, Canadian Dental Association statistics indicate that around 22% of patients suffer from extreme dental anxiety and dentophobia. So what exactly leads to this condition, and how can individuals effectively cope with it?
In this article, we will explore the causes and symptoms of dentophobia, shedding light on the factors that contribute to this fear. Additionally, we will provide insights into various dental anxiety solutions, helping individuals overcome dentophobia and seek the necessary dental care they need.
This is a fear of dentists. If you often find yourself dreading your next visit to the dentist, it is likely you have dentophobia.
If you have this condition, you may be afraid of the following:
Some of the factors that cause dentophobia include:
A person with dentophobia may display the following symptoms:
Dentophobia triggers could also make you cry whenever you think of a visit to the dentist or lose sleep the night before your appointment.
Once you’ve been diagnosed with dentophobia, your dentist may recommend some dental anxiety solutions.
The following coping mechanisms will help ease your fear when in the dental chair:
Do not hold back from communicating your fears to your dentist. This way, they can do whatever they can to make you as comfortable as possible during dental procedures. They could also recommend some techniques you’ll find helpful.
Exercises that involve deep breathing play a massive role in relaxing your mind and ensuring calm. Carrying out these exercises during your appointments helps in stress reduction. All you need to do is close your eyes, inhale slowly via the nose and hold it briefly before exhaling through the mouth.
Anxiety can peak as you wait for your turn to see the dentist. In such situations, simple meditation does the trick. Meditation puts you in a state of focus, heightened awareness and muscle relaxation that is good for promoting calmness. The better part? You can do this before and during your appointment.
This is another technique you can use to manage dental anxiety and phobia. Guided imagery involves visualizing happy thoughts, which can calm your mind during dental procedures.
Other dentophobia management techniques include hypnotherapy, creating distractions, bringing a friend and sedation.
Unfortunately, dental anxiety in children and adults alike can cause a pile-up of untreated dental issues and generally poor oral health. In addition, it could take a toll on your self-esteem and close relationships. The good news? Your dentist can help you overcome such fears.
At Dental on Wellesley, we acknowledge the impact of dentophobia on accessing dental care. That’s why we employ relaxation techniques and guided imagery to guarantee a serene and anxiety-free experience during your dental treatment. If you’re searching for the finest dentist specializing in dental anxiety in your vicinity, visit us today and acquaint yourself with our skilled team of professionals.
With more than 14 years of experience, Dr. Sobhi has been dedicated to the field of dentistry. Alongside her team of skilled dental professionals, their primary passion lies in assisting patients in achieving their healthiest and most radiant smiles.
Situated in Yonge and Eglinton, Yonge and Wellesley Dental takes pride in offering comprehensive dental care. Their stunning and contemporary office is equipped with cutting-edge dental technology, enabling them to deliver the utmost level of care to their patients.
For more information, You can find us in DENTAL STUDIO ON WELLESLEY to schedule an appointment in our office, schedule an appointment online, or give us a call at 1.416.858.4949
Are you perplexed about the dental treatment you need? Or you are concerned about which dental clinic is the right option for your dental treatment? Don’t worry we have the best dentists in town with high-tech services. For your convenience, we have multiple dental offices at different locations. Let us know your location and queries we will guide you to your nearest dental office. The location of the dental offices is as follows:
10 Wellesley St E,
Toronto, ON M4Y 3B2
