Studies show that millions of Americans avoid regular trips to the dentist’s office because they are fearful of potential discomfort, the office environment, or even the dentists themselves.  Dental phobia or anxiety can be the result of any number of factors: perhaps you had a negative experience in the past, or you fear the discomfort associated with a trip to the dentist’s office.
Whatever the reasons keeping anxious patients from seeing the dentist, it is important to overcome them in order to undergo important examinations and cleanings twice yearly.  Many people who avoid seeing the dentist regularly commonly face such issues as infected gums, decaying teeth, and even tooth loss, all of which will eventually require a much longer visit to the dentist than a regular check-up.

Sedation dentistry is an excellent solution for patients who suffer from dental anxiety or even severe dental phobia.  With oral or IV sedation, patients are able to relax for the duration of even the longest treatments.  If you suffer from dental anxiety, inquire whether your dentist offers any sedation techniques or research sedation dentists in your area.

Aside from sedation, there are a number of tips and techniques nervous patients can follow to ease their worries.  Try bringing a comfortable pillow to your appointment, or bringing your own music to listen to.  It’s also important to let your dentist know if you feel especially anxious, as he or she may be able to explain procedures in a way that makes you more comfortable.

Regardless of the cause of your dental anxiety or phobia, your dentist knows how to help you overcome it and receive the dental care you need.

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Dental anxiety and severe dental phobia are real conditions affecting roughly 4 million Americans. Anxiety and phobia often prevent people from making important bi-annual visits to the dentist’s office, let alone undergoing necessary treatments to mend or replace damaged teeth.  Fortunately, sedation dentistry and the tips included in this article can help the most nervous patient relax during even the most advanced dental treatments.  Some anxious patients have also found a solution in the calming atmosphere of new dental spas.  Learn how you, too, can overcome dental anxiety.