Are You Suffering from Dental Phobia?

For an estimated 9%-15% of Americans, dental anxiety and phobia prevents them from having a good experience at the dentist. It can also delay them getting important treatment for their oral health. Dental anxiety is fairly common, since many people have some fear when going to the dentist, but dental phobia can make a patient so miserable, they’ll do just about anything to avoid it.

There are also some repercussions for patients with dental phobia. Gum disease and early tooth loss are increased, as well as those who are self-conscious and insecure, tend to not take care of cosmetic issues, such as discolored or damaged teeth. They may smile, but not wide, or not with their teeth at all. A loss of self-esteem and confidence is also an issue.

Symptoms of Dental Phobia

There are several symptoms that can be debilitating, and include:

– Thoughts of dental visits that can make you physically ill
– Increased nervousness while waiting for treatment
– Intense thoughts of panic that may make it hard to breathe when objects are in your mouth
– You feel like crying when talking about going to the dentist, or when thinking about going
– Have a hard time sleeping the night before your appointment

Some reasons why you may have dental phobia have to do with a past bad experience, pain, feelings of helplessness and loss of control, embarrassment, or unknown expectations. Dental phobia can be treated, and should be taken care of, since the phobia can grow worse over time.

If you or a loved one suffers from dental phobia in Northglenn, Colorado, and surrounding areas, please contact Denali Dental. Our dental team, led by our kind and compassionate dentists, Dr. Sefcik, Dr. Andrews and Dr. Andrews, can ensure you are treated with the best dental care. Call us at 303-254-4444 today.