What is considered to be “normal stress” at the dentist’s office? Is it normal for people to have a fear of going to the dentist? What can patients do about it? This article will talk about dental phobia and why some people may get stressed because of a dental appointment. Did you know that noisy machines during your dental appointment might increase the patient’s stress? For stress-free dental appointments, you can visit Casey Dentists located in Townsend today.

What is dental phobia?

Dental phobia affects a big part of the population of American adults. This is the irrational fear of going to the dentist. The reason for this type of phobia varies per person, but most commonly, people may be stressed about the procedures done at the dental appointment, they may also be put off by the many noises that machines make during a dental checkup and other various reasons.

Many people are so affected by this fear that they put off going to see the dentist altogether. If some people avoid going to the dentist because of a lack of funds, people with dental phobia avoid going because they are afraid.

Visiting the dentist with dental phobia

This type of fear is much more serious than just anxiety. Most people who suffer from this phobia are already aware that the fear they have is irrational. However, there is little they can do about it. They cannot control the way they feel when they need to visit the dentist. As with any other irrational fear, such as the fear of spiders, people who are faced with that which they are most afraid of are gripped with panic and are utterly terrified.

People who suffer from dental phobia usually do not go to the dentist unless it is necessary. In most cases, these people will put off visiting their dentist unless they are in great pain because of an oral issue.

Normal stress at a dental appointment

It is considered normal to experience a little bit of stress when you visit your dentist. Especially if it is your first time in a long time to have a dental appointment, it is normal to feel a little apprehensive before going in for your checkup. However, you should never let this stress get in the way of going in for your dental appointment.

Once you will be at your dentist’s office, they will have ways to help you calm down for the procedure. If you have extreme dental phobia, a dentist can recommend sedation, but this usually comes at an extra cost that is not usually covered by your dental insurance. If you do not want to be sedated, it is a good idea to talk to your dentist about your stress. They will be able to put your mind at ease about the procedures that are going to be done by explaining the process to you in detail.

Final thoughts

Make it a point to see your dentist, whether you have a dental phobia or have just the normal amount of stress about dental visits. If you want too long between visits to the dentist, you stand to have serious oral health issues develop. Dentists can cure these issues if you make it a point to have an appointment periodically.

Radiant Smiles’ team of dentists in Bundoora offers gentle dental care for the whole family. Contact them today by clicking on the link.