Why Patients Fear the Dentist

Fears not only paralyze, they also lead to avoidance. A fear of heights, for example, would make one stay far from anything that isn’t grounded. Similarly, a fear of the dentist can make someone avoid the dentist. In efforts to avoid the dentist individuals may brush their teeth three times a day. They floss daily and rinse with a Fluoride mouthwash. Unfortunately, most apprehensive dental patients neglect proper oral care and wait until they are in pain to start dental treatment.

If you are someone who will go to the dentist only when it is absolutely necessary, not only are you more likely to delay treatment, the treatment may be more costly and complicated. This procrastination may in turn make your fear of the dentist worse and turn into a vicious cycle of dental fear.” Frankly, the longer you wait for your next dental visit, the more fearful you’re likely to be.

For many patients, this stems from previous experiences with a dentist, especially during childhood. If this is the case for you, you should be very glad to know that the field of dentistry is continually advancing and there are many options for you to be treated so you feel no pain. The newer generations of local anesthetics are virtually painless. Sedation dentistry is also a very safe option for most apprehensive dental patients.

We are here to make you feel more comfortable. Before any procedure, the dentist will clearly explain what you will be feeling and for what duration. Don’t let your fear of the dentist keep you from receiving the preventative oral care you need or suffer with a toothache that can be painlessly treated in our Levittown office.

Written by
Katherine Y. and Dr. Marc Gottlieb