Many people go years without seeing a dentist. Just thinking about it triggers anxiety. The reasons vary: fear of pain, needle phobia, or an aversion to the sounds and smells of a dental office often tied to childhood memories.
Avoiding routine checkups creates a vicious cycle: oral health worsens and future treatments become more invasive and complex.
Dentists are well aware of this anxiety and use techniques to help patients feel more comfortable.
What can patients do to reduce this fear?
- Book an early-morning appointment: less time to anticipate and build anxiety throughout the day.
- Start with a checkup visit: meet the dentist, discuss concerns, and understand the treatment plan based on diagnosis.
- Avoid arriving too early: waiting in the clinic can heighten anxiety due to typical office sounds and smells.
- Speak up about your fear: there’s no shame in dental anxiety. Telling your dentist allows them to offer comfort options such as sedation to make treatment easier.
The key is to weigh the benefits of going to the dentist against the problems and costs of avoiding care due to anxiety. Good oral health means fewer medium- and long-term issues and often fewer visits overall apart from recommended checkups and cleanings.
This information is for guidance. Skipping periodic checkups out of anxiety only leads to more complex treatments; a timely visit is the best solution.
For a consultation in a professional, reassuring environment, book an appointment with Dr. Daniel Fernández.
