Dentophobia is a common problem among people of all ages! It is estimated that nearly 75% of people experience some type of fear when it comes to their upcoming dental visit. Of the 75%, about ten to fifteen percent have such a strong fear they avoid the dentist at all costs. Neglecting oral health can have extreme consequences, which makes it important to discuss ways to overcome the fear.
Dentophobia, dental fear, and dental anxiety are all different terms meaning the same thing: fear of visiting a dentist for dental care. Most people who experience dentophobia do so because of prior traumatic experiences at the dentist, like complications or intense pain during a dental procedure.
Ways to Overcome
From behavioral techniques to medication, there are several ways to treat dentophobia. Relaxation techniques can also be used to prepare yourself for a dental visit. Gentle Dental suggests the following:
- Deep breathing exercises
- Positive self-talk
- Guided imagery
- Listening to comforting music or reading a favorite book in the waiting room
If you stress about your upcoming dentist appointment or dental work, you’re not alone. Dentophobia is more common than you realize. However, these feelings don’t mean you should skip your cleanings and checkups. Dr. Scott and Nicole Fulp will work with you and offer solutions so you can work around your fears to get the dental care you need.
Fulp Family Dentistry is a family dental office located in Tifton, Georgia. Dr. Nicole and Dr. Scott Fulp offer family dentistry and cosmetic dental services such as whitening, crowns, Invisalign, veneers, implants and more to Tifton and surrounding communities including Sylvester, Adel, Ashburn, Fitzgerald, Ocilla, and Nashville.
