I remember reading a survey a few years ago that stated 1 in 4 people have a phobia of visiting the dentist. A phobia is greater than general fear or anxiety, it is a complete avoidance of even standing outside a dental practice. Just the thought of a dental appointment sends a phobic patient into a cold sweat.
There are varying reasons why someone would avoid a dental appointment. For some it can be the shame of having to reveal their lack of care. For others it is memories of previous dental experiences that may have been less than comfortable, most notable with the thought of needles or injections. Another group have a social anxiety that they may be sick in front of the dentist.
As care providers we are not here to judge you, we are here to help. Don’t forget that at some point in time your dentist (and all the other members of the team) will be in the same position, sat in the same chair as everyone else in need of having some dental treatment.
So what can you do to help set you back on the path to being ‘dentally fit’?
Some people find that learning relaxation techniques or seeking out a therapist can help them to overcome their fears. At Bancroft Dentistry in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, we are able to offer sedation to make having dental treatment a more relaxing experience.
Best wishes
Frank
