Top Causes of Dental Phobia

Causes of Dental Phobia

Dental phobia is the irrational fear of dentists and dental procedures. If you have a dental phobia or anxiety, then you know how hard it is to take good care of your oral health. Dental phobia prevents people from getting the dental care that they need because patients who have this condition avoid dental visits. People who suffer from dental phobia often have difficulty sleeping the night before their dental visit. When at their dental appointment, they feel nervous or ill when a piece of dental equipment is placed in their mouth. Sometimes this intense uneasiness prevents them from receiving proper oral care. Dental phobia is a common problem that dentists have to face with their patients. To overcome your fear of going to the dentist, you should know first the causes of this condition and how to overcome it.

Past Dental Experience

The number one cause of dental phobia is from a past dental experience. Negative dental experiences bring trauma to patients. When a person experiences discomfort during a dental procedure, he or she may likely be more anxious about their next dental visit. Dr. James B. Schwartz, DDS of Carolina Dentistry @ The StateLine provides the most gentle dental services that you can find With over 25 years of experience, he has the skills and knowledge to help patients overcome their dental phobia through safe and comfortable dental procedures, an accommodating staff and compassionate dental care.

Low Pain Threshold

There is a common misconception that all dental procedures are very painful. Because of this misconception, people who are afraid of pain also develop dental phobia. However, with all the advancements in dental technology, most dental procedures have become less painful and sometimes even pain-free.

Embarrassment Over a Dental Condition

Another cause of dental phobia can be the dental condition that the patient already has. Dental conditions such as a missing or broken tooth, cavities and bad breath makes people anxious when visiting the dentist. You should know that Carolina Dentistry @ The StateLine will help you not just with your dental phobia but also with your other dental conditions. We will provide solutions to all your oral problems and we will make sure to restore your smile with our wide range of services like cosmetic, general, restorative and emergency dentistry.

Sensitivity to Dental Smell

There are people who get afraid with just the smell of a dental office. The sensitivity to the smell of a dental office can be attributed to the trauma that a patient associated with that particular smell. If you have this kind of dental phobia, it is best to discuss it with our doctor so he can suggest the best course of action to overcome your fear due to the smell of a dental office.

Other Phobias That Can Trigger Dental Anxiety

Other kinds of phobias and mental disorders can also trigger dental anxieties. Mental conditions such as PTSD, generalized anxiety disorder, schizophrenia or bipolar disorder can increase the risk of people having dental phobia. With our team of compassionate dental care professionals, Carolina Dentistry @ The StateLine will help you overcome your dental fear and achieve optimum oral health. Book an appointment with our 24/7 online scheduling or contact us at 704-752-7602.