How do you feel walking through a dentist’s office for an exam? If you feel anything but relaxed, you’re not alone. Many people suffer from dental phobia, and as you may know, it can interfere with dental health. That in turn can interfere with overall health. That’s why Marietta, GA, general dentist Dr. Casey Hart at D. Casey Hart, DDS, works so hard to create a friendly atmosphere.
If you allow fear to stop you from receiving routine preventative care, you’re more likely to need advanced dental care in the future. Learning how to combat dental phobia now may save you a lot of anxiety and expense.
Signs of Dental Phobia
How do you know if you have a dental phobia? One tell-tale sign is allowing your fear of the dentist’s office to stop you from receiving the care you need. For instance, someone with a dental phobia may never visit a dentist for routine cleanings. They may eventually need an emergency appointment for a more severe dental complication due to that dental neglect.
Someone with dental phobia may exhibit some of these common signs and symptoms when going to the dentist:
- Rapid heart rate
- Excessive sweating
- Low or high blood pressure
- Crying
- Panic attack
- Emotional and/or vocal withdrawal
- Extreme anxiety
- Anger or aggression
- Irritability with others
Some anxiety or nervousness is common when seeing the dentist. When it goes to the extreme and interferes with proper dental care, it’s safe to say the fear is crossing the line to a phobia.
Strategies to Overcome Dental Phobia
Not seeing your Marietta, GA, general dentist isn’t the answer for dental phobia. It’s better to think about the root cause of your fear. What pain, discomfort, or difficulty are you trying to avoid? What experiences have shaped your expectations of dental visits? What negative assumptions or expectations are influencing your fear?
If you can get to the heart of what you fear most, you may research facts to prove some or all of your assumptions untrue. Another way to prove those negative beliefs about the dentist untrue is to give yourself new experiences in the dental office.
Dental technology and techniques have changed dramatically over the years. With sedation options and gentler practices, you may find that the dentist isn’t nearly as scary as your mind might tell you today.
Get the Gentle Dental Care You Deserve
If you’re struggling with dental phobia, let the compassionate team at D. Casey Hart, DDS, know. Dr. Hart is a caring general dentist in Marietta, GA, who will do everything possible to make your dental visit relaxing and comfortable. Call (770) 926-8371 to discuss your needs today.