Sage-Tips

What makes people afraid of dentist?

Pain. Far and away the number one factor in dental phobia, pain provides a two-fold problem for patients afraid of visiting the dentist. On one hand, any past painful experience is seared in the memory – and unlikely to go away anytime soon.

What is the most common type of dental fear?

Most Common Dental Phobias

• Fear of Pain. Some people fear the potential pain of dental treatment, even when they’re just going in for a cleaning or X-rays.
• Negative Past Experiences.
• Fear of Losing Control.
• Fear of Dental Equipment.
• Fear of Loud Noises.
• Embarrassment.
• Strategies for Overcoming Dental Phobia.

Why visiting a dentist is scary?

Dental phobia is extremely common, but it’s a dangerous fear to hold onto. Studies show that people with dental phobias or anxiety have worse oral health than people with a healthy view of the dentist. They’re also much more likely to have destroyed teeth, a condition that requires extensive intervention to fix.

How can I be less scared of the dentist?

Taking Charge

1. Go to that first visit with someone you trust, such as a close relative who has no fear of dentists, Bynes suggests.
2. Seek distraction while in the dentist’s chair.
3. Try relaxation techniques.
4. Review with your dentist which sedatives are available or appropriate.

How common is a fear of the dentist?

It’s estimated that 2.7 percent of men and 4.6 percent of women have dentophobia. Aside from fears and phobias tied to past experiences, it’s also possible to experience fear of a dentist because of concerns you might have about your oral health.

Is dental fear common?

Fear of the dentist is incredibly common, with surveys estimating that it affects 13\% to 24\% of people around the world. For many people, dental anxiety is disturbing but not disabling.

How can I make my dentist less scary?

10 Dentist Anxiety Tips

1. Look for a dental practice that caters to dental phobics.
2. Technology for the Win.
3. Don’t go to your first visit alone.
4. Arrive on time, but not too soon.
5. Use some of these sure-fire relaxation techniques throughout the visit.
6. Ask your dentist for appropriate sedation options.

Is the dentist scary?

What is it called when you are afraid of the dentist?

Dentophobia (odontophobia), or fear of dentists, is a common phobia among people of all ages. It is sometimes related to iatrophobia , or fear of doctors, as well as trypanophobia , or fear of needles. Dentophobia may be mild or severe, and can eventually lead to serious health issues.