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Why Are So Many People Afraid of the Dentist?

October 11, 2024

Filed under: Uncategorized — harrisonburgsmiles @ 11:06 pm
Lady is frightened

It’s the Halloween season, and that means it’s time for scary fun and frightening thrills. While many people enjoy freaking themselves out with monster movies or classic spooky stories, some individuals aren’t so eager to face their fears or anxieties about going to the dentist’s office. Dentophobia, or fear of seeing one’s dentist, is an unfortunately common issue in America. Here’s a brief overview of a few reasons why so many people are afraid of seeing their dentists and a few simple tips for making your dental appointments into more pleasant experiences.

What Causes Dentophobia?

While people can develop phobias for many reasons, one may be more likely to be afraid of their dentist if they meet one or more of the following criteria:

  • Family history: If your parent or family member has dental fear or anxiety, you may be more likely to experience similar issues. This may be due to anxiety being influenced by genetic factors.
  • Embarrassment: Many people are self-conscious of their oral health, and the thought of having a dental professional closely inspecting their teeth can give them much anxiety.
  • A sense of helplessness: Some people find that sitting still in a chair while having their mouth open for a long period makes them feel uncomfortably vulnerable.
  • The power of suggestion: Hearing others talk about their discomfort at the dentist’s office can make a person more anxious about their next appointment.
  • Bad experiences: Some people have had unpleasant experiences at dentists’ offices in the past, which can make anticipating a dental appointment more stressful.

How Can I Make My Dental Appointments More Pleasant?

While some people with moderate or severe dentophobia may be able to benefit from professional help, there are a few simple measures you can take to make your upcoming dental appointment less stressful. A few things to try include:

  • Not thinking about it: Anticipating a stressful event is often much worse than the event itself. Finding some way to distract yourself from thinking about going to your dentist’s office can help you avoid much anxiety in the days before your appointment.
  • Bring a book or another activity: The waiting rooms at dentist’s offices are usually quiet and comfortable, making the time before your appointment ideal for enjoying a novel, working on homework, or solving a crossword.
  • Bring a friend: Sometimes, all you need is a trusted individual close by to alleviate your anxiety. Having a friend or family member in the waiting room may bring you much comfort during your appointment.

The American Dental Association recommends seeing your dentist at least twice a year so they can thoroughly clean your mouth, correct issues in their early stages, and recommend better hygiene practices. Getting the care you need despite your dental anxiety can help you keep your smile in beautiful shape for a lifetime.

About the Practice

Harrisonburg Family & Cosmetic Dentistry offers the finest oral healthcare at its Virginia office. Led by Drs. Mario DeNicola and Monisha Khanna, the staff ensures that each patient receives compassionate service and effective treatments in a calm and welcoming environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. To book your next dental appointment, contact the office online or dial (540) 432-6616.

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