How to Prevent Dental Anxiety
Tooth decay, missing teeth, and gum disease are pretty common dental problems that we deal with on a regular basis. Yet theres another dental problem that we often need to address as well, and its got less to with the condition of a persons mouth and more to do with a sense of fear and nervousness. This problem is called many different things: dental anxiety, dental phobia, or just plain old fear of the dentist. We understand just how stressful a dental visit can seem, but we always work with our patients to let them know things will be okay.
Before you meet with a Memphis cosmetic dentist (or avoid your next visit), we think its a good idea to read through this brief look into the nature of dental anxiety.
What is dental anxiety?
Dental anxiety is basically a sense of fear or panic experienced while visiting the dentist. This anxiety can get so severe that even the mere thought of going to the dentist can trigger a sense of unease.
Why is dental anxiety so serious?
Dental anxiety can result in skipped dental visits. Its important that people visit their dentist twice a year for normal check-ups so that minor dental problems can be addressed before they evolve into major ones. Missing years of visits due to fear can mean the difference between getting a dental filling for a cavity and getting Memphis dental implants for missing teeth.
What You Should Know if You Suffer From Dental Anxiety
The entire team at our Cordova, TN cosmetic and restorative dentistry center is here for you. The last thing that we want any of our patients to feel is fear, stress, nervousness, or unpleasantness. When you come to our practice, we want to always assure you that were working in your best interests, and that each visit is a positive experience that moves you in the right direction.
What Parents Can Do for Children Afraid of the Dentist
If you have a child thats afraid of the dentist, you can help them overcome that fear by talking to them calmly about dental visits. Let your child know that their dentist wants to make them healthy so that they can grow up with a great smile that they can feel good about. In severe cases of child dental anxiety, we can offer additional advice to you when you speak with us directly.
What Friends and Loved Ones Can Do for People Afraid of the Dentist
If you have a friend or a family member whos skipped out on dental visits for years, let them know that going sooner rather than later will be better for the. Less extensive cosmetic dentistry and restorative dentistry treatments will be required.
What We Can Do to Address Dental Anxiety
When patients come to us and are unable to control feelings of panic, we can manage their dental anxiety though the use of sedation dentistry. These techniques will help place patients in a calm, relaxed state so that they do not feel any stress while we perform necessary treatment.
Learn More About Advanced Dental Care Treatments
For more information about overcoming dental anxiety and undergoing the dental care treatments that you need, please contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry practice serving Memphis today. During your consultation, we will strive to ensure that you are at ease and well-informed so we can partner with you for lasting dental health.
