Being afraid of going to the dentist may be more common than you think. Around 75% of the population is dealing with dentophobia.

Dentophobia is defined as the fear of dentistry. This means both the act of dental procedures and the dentist. This fear can stem from intense childhood memories of the dental chair or even painful experiences as an adult.

These fears are common because of negative dental experiences and dentists’ unfortunate bedside manner are not uncommon. So what can you do about your fear of the dentist before it begins to take a toll on your health and your overall oral upkeep?

You should look for a dentist that specializes in “gentle dentistry.” Gentle dentists work to improve your overall health while keeping your anxieties at bay. 

Keep reading to discover what a dentist who takes note of your fears can do. Quiet that nervous feeling you get when you consider booking a cleaning or other dental service.

Gentle Dentistry Means Painless Dentistry 

For those who have an overwhelming fear of the dentist chair, even scheduling a routine teeth cleaning can cause overwhelming anxiety. It’s time we change that. Receiving dental procedures should be a calming and satisfactory experience that ensures your health and well-being.

Needles, sharp instruments, and uncomfortable time spent at the dentist keep most people from booking appointments or procrastinating routine cleaning procedures or other treatments. Unfortunately, this can cause even more severe health problems if dental procedures are not taken care of promptly.

Oral decay can lead to many other health concerns; your mouth is where your health begins. Gentle dentistry is the practice of performing dental procedures with the patient’s fears and anxieties in mind.

Different options are available for those of us who suffer from oral anxieties. From other numbing procedures to noise-canceling headphones, a good “gentle dentist” will do their best to make sure you are comfortable during your operations.

Dental Fear and Dental Anxiety

If you have dentophobia, a trip to the dentist can already be hard enough. Because of your fear and anxiety about dental procedures, you may be about to embark on some long journeys to a dental professional. Look to someone who can ease your concerns and help you to avoid permanent damage to your smile.

You will want to make sure you are in caring hands that aim to take care of you as a whole person. So let this be the last time you go to the dentist with massive amounts of apprehension.

Normalize Your Fear of the Dentist 

Gentle dentistry is a much-needed aspect of the oral and cosmetic dental practice. Fears related to the dentist and orthodontist are very common. You are not irrational or childish for being afraid of the dentist. 

Your past experiences may have been painful and you may not have received the results you were hoping for. Take this as a learning opportunity to know what to look for in your next dental professional. You’ll need someone with a caring touch.

If you are looking for more tips to help you cope with your fears of the dentist or other information about your dental health, check out our blog. While you’re there see what other services we can offer you and your family.