People that suffer from dental phobia (Dentophobia) may take comfort in the fact that it is a fairly common diagnosable mental condition. At least they know they are not alone and that the medical community takes it seriously.
Phobias like Pteromerhanophobia: (the fear of flying) and Acrophobibia (the fear of heights) can be problematic, but a person can live a perfectly healthy life without getting on a 747 or riding an elevator to the top of the Chrysler Building.
A person who suffers from dental phobia or dental anxiety is at risk of entering a vicious cycle of decreasing oral health.
Fear causes the person to abstain from dental checkups for years. When a minor dental dilemma (like a small cavity) progresses until it hits a nerve and results in pain, the patient is forced to visit the dentist.
At this point, the required remedy is an involved procedure (possibly an extraction followed by a dental implant). The procedure reinforces the dental phobia and, once again, the patient stays away from the dentist’s office. That’s how some people end up losing teeth at a relatively young age.
Experts believe that the scope of dental phobia may be as high as one in four individuals. Are you one of them?
At The Lewisville Dentist, we want to help apprehensive patients successfully overcome or at least manage their apprehension so they can undergo twice-yearly checkups and cleanings. Preventive dentistry is the most effective way to protect teeth and gums.
If you haven’t had a dental examination in a while, please schedule a consultation. You can speak with Dr. Baugh about the many options available including behavioral therapy, cognitive therapy, and conscious sedation (sleep dentistry).
If you are terrified about going to the dentist, there is hope. At The Lewisville Dentist, we have successfully treated many patients just like you. We invite you to request a consultation today.
Contact The Lewisville Dentist:
469-708-4713
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
297 E Round Grove Rd Suite 127
Lewisville, Texas
75067
