Dealing with Dental Fear – Communication is Key

If the thought of going to the dentist fills you with dread, you may be among the 20 percent of Americans who suffer from dental anxiety or its more serious form, dental phobia. Some people experience mild anxiety and nervousness before and during dental appointments, but others may face sleepless nights, stomach problems, crying spells, panic attacks, headaches, palpitations, feelings of suffocation, and more. Severe dental phobia sometimes requires medical or psychiatric intervention, but sufferers of mild dental anxiety can often manage their symptoms with a little help from their dental team. 


The following are some of the most common causes of dental fear:

• Being afraid of dentist tools, such as drills or other sharp instruments.
• Fear of pain, which may be a result of a negative dental experience.
• Concern that anesthetic will be ineffective.
• Fear of injections or needles.
• Worry about side effects from medications or injections.
• Feeling out of control or helpless.
• Being embarrassment about condition of teeth.
• Fear of criticism about dental care habits.
• Invasion of personal space.

Discussing your fear with your dentist in South Bend is the best way to overcome dental anxiety. Dentists understand that many people avoid seeking treatment if their dental experiences in the past have been negative, and most are willing to work with their patients to ensure that dental fear is addressed and treatments are as comfortable as possible.

If your dentist is not interested in discussing your dental anxiety, find one who is. A conscientious dentist is willing to explain everything that is happening during a procedure so that you are fully informed and prepared for the next step. If you become uncomfortable or need a break, you can use a predetermined signal such as a raised hand to alert your dentist. With good communication and trust between you and your dentist, your dental anxiety can be greatly reduced, and you won’t experience as much stress before your appointment.

To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in South Bend, call The Dental Center of Indiana today or make an appointment.