Many people are apprehensive about visiting the dentist. And although we often joke about this situation, it’s no laughing matter. Dental anxiety and dental phobia are serious issues which threaten the health of millions of people. In fact:
It has been estimated that 9% to 15% of Americans avoid seeing the dentist because of anxiety and fear. That’s about 30 million to 40 million people.
Dental anxiety and dental phobia are related conditions, but dental phobia can bemuch more intense. People with dental anxiety “will have a sense of uneasiness when it’s time for their appointment.” However, people with dental phobia report feeling “exaggerated or unfounded worries or fears” that can render them “terrified or panic stricken.”
People are reluctant to go to the dentist for various reasons. Perhaps they had a bad experience with a dentist years ago and they still associate it with all dentists.
Unfortunately, such unpleasant events from the past and other circumstances can prompt a patient’s anxiety about visiting the dentist. Patients frequently report the following triggers for dental anxiety and dental phobia:
Of course,when people avoid going to the dentist, they are likely to suffer the following consequences:
But avoiding the dentist doesn’t just damage your smile. It can also result in serious medical conditions, including:
There are several things that dentists can do to help alleviate apprehensions for all of their patients, especially those who might be struggling with dental anxiety or dental phobia:
There are several strategies you can employ if dental anxiety or dental phobia makes it difficult for you to go to the dentist. Counselors often employ the following techniques:
At Tharp and Klaus Dental Clinic in Jackson, we strive to make all our patients feel welcome and secure. If you’ve been avoiding the dentist, why not give us a try?
Consult with Dr. Tharp & Dr. Klaus whether you need teeth cleaning, oral screening, or restorative dental care in Jackson, MS. You can trust our team to deliver quality dental services that will leave you with a smile on your face. We believe that each and every patient that walks through our door deserves a great smile, and we’ll work with you to find the treatments that fit your needs. During our consultations, you’ll be able to ask your questions one-on-one, get evaluated, and learn more about the ins and outs of your dental treatment.
Don’t hesitate to contact us today; you deserve a beautiful brilliant smile.
To our beloved patients, friends, colleagues, and families:
Tharp and Klaus Dental Clinic is continuing to follow strict safety measures to ensure the health of our patients and staff during the COVID 19 pandemic. Please do not enter our facility if you have been exposed to the virus or are displaying any symptoms. We ask that you call us when you arrive for your appointment, and we will direct you when to enter. Please wear a mask when entering and leaving the clinic. Thank you for your consideration.