Do you feel anxious when visiting the dentist? Have you been avoiding the dentist for some time due to fear and anxiety?
Researchers estimate that 3 out of every 10 American adults avoid their regular dental appointments because of fear and anxiety. Dental phobia is a serious condition that prevents people from getting the dental care they need. This common dental concern can affect people at any age.
Visiting the dentist doesn’t have to be painful or stressful. Our highly-trained staff spends time with each patient to educate them on their condition and treatment options. It is very important to communicate with us if you suffer from dental fear so that we can take the necessary steps to help you. Avoiding the dentist due to your dental anxiety can lead to many dental concerns, including the following:
- Tooth Cavities
- Gum Disease
- Plaque Build-Up
- Early Tooth Loss
- Damaged Teeth
- Yellow or Stained Teeth
- Serious issue including heart disease and diabetes
Our Owings Mills, MD, dentist Dr. Ed Lazer offers oral-conscious sedation to help you feel comfortable and relaxed during your treatments at our dental practice. Our dental practice is a comfortable and relaxing environment for all ages. To learn more about our dental sedation potions, see Sedation dentistry.
Causes of Dental Anxiety
There are many reasons people have a fear of going to the dentist. People who suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD or who are Bi-polar or schizophrenic are more susceptible to suffering from dental anxiety or dental phobias. Dental fear can be associated with drills, needles or the doctor-like setting. The following are some of the reasons our patients seek sedation options:
- Traumatic dental experience in the past
- Fear of perceived pain
- Feeling helpless/loss of control
- Embarrassment due to the condition of teeth and gums
- Fear of pain
- Fear of humiliation
- Fear of being in a small space
- Fear of not being in control
- Fear of choking
- Fear of the unknown
- Strong gag reflex
- Fear of feeling powerless or helpless
- Unfamiliarity with the dentist or their staff
Regardless of the cause, it’s important to understand that dental anxiety is a real and common issue that affects many individuals. If you are dealing with dental anxiety, please seek support from our dentist or an experienced mental health professional. With the right help, you can address your fears and move towards a healthier and happier life.
Patient Education: Overcoming Dental Anxiety
For those who suffer from dental anxiety, it can be an emotionally and physically uncomfortable experience. But it doesn’t have to be. There are steps you can take to help you conquer your fear and visit the dentist with ease. It is important to understand that the dentist is there to help you and although it may not seem like it, getting regular dental checkups is critical to your overall health.
Taking small steps to help ease your anxiety is the first step. Start by doing some research. Look up information about the dentist you are visiting, read reviews, and ask your friends and family for their experience. Knowing more about the dentist and their practice can make the experience less intimidating. Additionally, call the office ahead of time and ask questions. Talking to our front desk staff can provide a better picture of what to expect when you visit.
Another way to feel the most comfortable is by having a fundamental understanding of their condition and treatment. Our Owings Mills, MD dentists will take the time with each patient to fully explain why the dental problems are happening and what we can do to fix them. Talk to our dentist ahead of time. Explain your fear and ask us for tips and advice on how to make the experience as painless as possible. Our dentist may also suggest relaxation techniques or offer oral-conscious sedation to help you feel more comfortable.
Additionally, bringing a friend or family member to your appointment can help you feel more relaxed and in control. Using these tips and advice from your dentist, you can start by taking small steps to ease into your dental visit. For example, you can ask to take a brief tour of the office and meet the staff before your treatment begins. This can help you become more familiar with the environment and more comfortable with our team of professionals who will be helping you.
Schedule a Dental Exam Today
If you suffer from dental anxiety in Baltimore, MD and Owings Mills, Dr. Ed Lazer offers several options to help you feel comfortable and relaxed during your treatments. Our compassionate dental team has helped countless patients overcome their dental anxiety so they can get the care they need to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Schedule an appointment today and be sure to mention your fear of the dentist so that we can prepare to help you through your visit. Call (410) 697-6290 or request a consultation online anytime.