The discomfort can range from extreme fear to phobia
08 Feb, 2023
Dental anxiety and phobia are well-recognized psychological conditions that are far more common than one might think so.
Source: ThehealthsiteThe triggers can be anything including items at a dentist’s clinic like drills, needles or even the thought of visiting the clinic.
Source: ThehealthsiteThe fear can hold back people from taking regular appointments or avoiding going to the dentist altogether. This can have serious consequences for a person’s oral health.
Source: ThehealthsiteDental anxiety and phobia are not the same things. The former has a specific cause such as needles but the latter is an unrealistic and irrational fear.
Source: ThehealthsiteStudies show past traumatic dental experiences such as pain, discomfort and perceived loss of control can be a common cause of fear.
Source: ThehealthsiteSome studies have found a close association between dental fear and sexual abuse survivors. The requirement to lie flat on a dental chair and gag reflex can be unsettling for the victims.
Source: ThehealthsiteIf a person might have neglected their oral health over a period or have bad teeth, they might fear receiving humiliating remarks from the practitioner.
Source: ThehealthsiteFear of choking, vomiting, needles, sharp objects and general fear of doctors can also hold people back. Studies show that some people might find noises coming from drills scary.
Source: ThehealthsiteOther phobias such as the fear of not being able to escape or diseases can also cause people to fear dental visits.
Source: ThehealthsiteThanks For Reading!