Dentophobia is the phobia of going to the dentists and is estimated to be present in around 20 % of us worldwide.
The fear of going to the dentist often means that people suffer unnecessarily for conditions that could otherwise be treated by a dentist.
This fear is exceptionally real, and we need to find ways to fight it. Here are some things you can try to reduce your fear of going to the dentist now.
Visit A Psychologist
Fears can manifest themselves from many things; you may not even know where it has come from. Visiting a psychologist may help diagnose where the problem comes from so you are able to take the correct steps to help get rid of your fear.
A psychologist may suggest you undergo cognitive behaviour therapy, hypnosis past life regression, or participate in group therapy or self-help methodologies.
Ask Your Dentist About Being Sedated
With technology advancing at a faster and faster rate, we are finding more ways to work around the fears associated with dentistry. A commonly used method for fearful, or weary patients is conscious sedation dentistry, which involves the use of laughing gas or Nitrous Oxide to ease anxiety or pain, reduce gag reflex, and more.
Other commonly used medication includes topicals and local anaesthesia to numb the mouth during treatments and check-ups. This makes the patient less aware of the procedure taking place and often puts them in a state of sleep.
Another option you can ask for is to be completely sedated during treatments, but not all dentists will offer this option.
If you want to get rid of your fears and get your smile back, find a great dentist and see If they can help you with the above.
