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On a scale of 1-10, how severe is your anxiety about visiting the dentist? For about 40 million Americans, dental anxiety is so serious that it keeps them from going to the dentist altogether. Avoiding the dentist has dire consequences for your health and can seriously ruin your smile, so confronting this fear and gaining control over your oral health is of paramount importance.
A Serious and Misunderstood Disorder
While dental phobia may seem like it’s in the person’s head, ultimately it’s not a disorder to take lightly. In some patients, the symptoms are so severe that they become physically ill at the prospect of visiting their dentist for routine cleanings and checkups. This has directly has an impact on an individual’s oral health and prevents patients from getting the necessary cleanings and more complex procedures needed to maintain a healthy smile. If there are more serious underlying issues, missing out on these necessary appointments puts patients at risk of declining oral health.
So I Avoid the Dentist – What am I Missing?
Skipping dental appointments may not seem like a big deal at the time, but if you’re missing appointments you’re essentially gambling with your oral health. Here are some of the most crucial services provided by the dentist, and the consequences for missing them:
In-Depth Oral Exam
Without dental hygienists to look at every tooth in your mouth from various angles, you won’t know what ailments may be sabotaging your oral care. Dentists and dental hygienists use tools that are designed to reach the hard to reach parts of your mouth, so without dental visits, many parts of your mouth will be neglected.
Comprehensive Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer kills thousands of people each year, and the reason is that it’s often caught too late. When caught early, oral cancer is highly treatable, providing patients with a higher chance of survival. In order to make this early diagnosis, it’s critical that individuals of all ages visit our Bingham Farms dentist for routine oral cancer screenings. During your six month appointments, Dr. Kosinski thoroughly evaluates your smile for signs of oral cancer and may recommend a biopsy if he notices potential symptoms.
Dental Deep Cleanings
With advanced knowledge and tools, the cleaning you get at a dentist is much more comprehensive and detailed than your daily home care. Our Bingham Farms dentist and hygienists know exactly what to look for in your mouth and know the best ways to identify and get rid of plaque and tartar. Skipping out on your dental appointments will leave this plaque in place, putting you at risk for cavities and gum disease.
What is the Source of Your Dental Phobia?
Not all instances of dental phobia are the same. Many people have different reasons for their dental anxiety and identifying these specific reasons is important for fighting the disorder. Take note of these common sources of dental phobia and consider how you can overcome those that apply to you:
The Two Most Common Fears at the Dentist
DentalHealth.org has identified that the two most common dental-related fears are as follows:
- 30% fear having a tooth drilled
- 28% fear a local anesthetic injection
Other Reasons People Fear the Dentist
- Fear of the dentist themselves
- Fear of metal tools and equipment
- Fear of mysterious dental noises
- Fear of people looking and working in your mouth
- Fear from previous bad dental experiences
No More Fear – Tips for Overcoming Dental Phobia
If fear of the dentist has been keeping you from the oral care you need, it’s time to conquer that fear and regain control of your oral health. These tips can help you overcome your dental phobia:
- Visit the practice before your appointment to build familiarity
- Be honest with your anxiety at the dentist – they can help
- Make your appointment for a time that’s most comfortable for you
- Try to contact a support network for advice on combating dental phobia
- Bring items that help you stay relaxed like a pillow or blanket
- Listen to a podcast or music during the appointment
- Learn about the tools and dental process before your visit
- Bring someone who can comfort you to your dental appointment
Let the Smile Creator of Bingham Farms Help Your Dental Phobia
Dental phobia is a disorder that can sap the health of your mouth and teeth. If you feel extreme anxiety when visiting the dentist, let Dr. Kosinsky know when scheduling your next appointment. We emphasize patient comfort and will take any precautions to ensure that your visit is a positive experience. Learn how we can help you overcome your dental phobia today and contact our office in Bingham Farms, MI.