Dental anxiety refers to the stress associated with visiting the dentist, while dentophobia is an intense fear of dental appointments. Individuals with these issues may avoid dental care, missing out on essential treatments. However, a skilled dental professional can address your concerns and create a comfortable experience. Discover how the right dentist can alleviate your fears and how sedation dentistry can make your visits stress-free.
6 Common Reasons for Dental Fear or Anxiety
For individuals with severe dental anxiety or fear, the idea of visiting the dentist can be so intimidating that they may avoid it altogether. Here are some common reasons that contribute to these feelings:
- Fear of needles or that injections won’t work
- Loss or invasion of personal space
- Fear of pain of discomfort
- A feeling of helplessness or a loss of control
- Embarrassment
- Fear of anesthetic side effects
How Dental Sedation Can Help
Fortunately, sedation dentistry can help even the most anxious patients remain calm during their dental visits. Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is effective for individuals with mild to moderate anxiety. It’s delivered through a mask placed over the nose and is suitable for both children and adults.
For those with severe dental fear or undergoing lengthy procedures, oral conscious sedation is an excellent option. This involves taking a prescribed medication that often causes memory loss of the procedure, ensuring you won’t recall the experience. Since the effects can linger for several hours, it’s advisable to arrange for a friend or family member to take you to and from your appointment.
4 Reasons Why the Dentist Is Nothing to Fear
Visiting the dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings is essential for keeping your smile healthy and preventing serious oral health problems. Here are some reasons why dental appointments are not something to fear:
- Dentists are here to help – They want you to feel safe, comfortable, and well cared for during your visit.
- Dental sedation can help – Using dental sedation, pain during treatment is a thing of the past.
- The sooner, the better – Getting treatment promptly increases the likelihood of addressing issues early and preventing more significant problems down the road.
- Protect your heart – Regular dental visits twice a year can help reduce your risk of developing gum disease, which is linked to an increased risk of heart disease.
You have just one set of teeth, so it’s crucial to care for them properly. By brushing, flossing, and seeing your dentist twice a year, you can keep your teeth and gums strong and healthy for many years.
About the Practice
Aegis Dental is committed to delivering exceptional care to improve oral health and achieve a naturally beautiful, fully functional smile. They focus on helping patients gain confidence in their smiles by offering a wide array of preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency services. For those with dental anxiety, Aegis Dental provides effective solutions like sedation to ensure a comfortable treatment experience. To learn more about their services or to book an appointment, call (972) 492-6700 or visit their website.