If fear of the dentist and dental phobia is holding you back from receiving the dental care you need, Nanaimo Smiles is here to support you with care, patience, and understanding.
Wait, why are so many of us scared of the dentist? Unless you’re someone who enjoys the sounds of small drills and the feeling of someone poking around your mouth, it’s likely that a dentist visit isn’t exactly at the top of the list when it comes to your favourite activities. But for some people, the fear of going to the dentist goes far beyond that feeling of discomfort or inconvenience.
For those with dental phobia, just the thought of a dentist appointment can cause overwhelming anxiety and stress, making something as simple as a routine check-up feel like a major challenge—and even cause to put it off altogether. At Nanaimo Smiles, we understand how real this fear can be, and we’re here to help you feel comfortable and supported every step of the way so you can access the dental care you deserve.
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What is dental phobia?
Our Nanaimo dentists and dental hygienists hear this concern quite frequently: Going to the dentist can make some people feel anxious or even downright fearful. So first and foremost, know that if you experience anxiety or stress before visiting your Nanaimo dentist, you’re not alone in feeling that way. Between 15 and 20 percent of the world’s population is believed to have Odontophobia (dental phobia), according to the World Health Organization. But there is a difference between feeling a bit jittery before your dentist appointment and feeling so afraid that you avoid your Nanaimo dentist office altogether.
Dental phobia is more than just nerves about a dental visit; it’s a strong fear that can prevent individuals from getting the dental care they need. At Nanaimo Smiles, we understand that dental anxiety and dental phobia can be a barrier for our community in Nanaimo to get the dental care they deserve, which is why our dental team takes several measures to help reduce these fears.
Why do I feel afraid of the dentist?
There are many reasons why people feel anxious or fearful when it comes to dentist appointments, and dental phobia can stem from a variety of factors that are different for everyone. For some, it might be due to a negative experience in the past, like a procedure that was uncomfortable or caused pain, leaving a lasting impression. Others may fear the potential pain of dental work, even though modern dentistry and dental technology have come a long way in making treatments as comfortable as possible. The thought of needles, drills, or even the simple sensation of your Nanaimo dentist working inside your mouth can trigger anxiety or dental phobia.
Another big factor is the feeling of being vulnerable while in the dental chair. Many of our patients at Nanaimo Smiles come to us after years—and even decades—of avoiding dental care. This can lead to fear of judgement and the unknown. What condition are my teeth in? Will I have a cavity? Will my dental hygienist judge the state of my smile? Please don’t let these intrusive thoughts prevent you from receiving the dental care you deserve.
For some people, it’s the uncertainty of not knowing exactly what will happen during a visit—whether it’s a professional cleaning or a more involved procedure like restorative dentistry. At Nanaimo Smiles, we are here to help ease those fears. We take the time to listen to your concerns, walk you through every step of your visit, and offer calming options like sedation or relaxation techniques so you can receive the dental care you need in an environment that aims to support those who suffer from dental phobia.
How common is dental phobia?
Dental phobia is actually more common than you might think. According to studies published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology and conducted by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, it’s estimated that around nine to 20 percent of people experience some level of fear or anxiety about visiting the dentist, with some studies suggesting that this fear is intense enough to avoid necessary dental care altogether. These studies highlight that dental anxiety can range from mild unease to full-blown dental phobia, often caused by past negative experiences, fear of pain, or even the sounds and sensations associated with dental visits. Despite how common it is, many people may keep their dental phobia to themselves, which can lead to further anxiety when dental appointments are put off for long periods of time. The good news is that dental phobia is something that can be managed and treated with the right support and approach—something we are very passionate about at Nanaimo Smiles.
Can dental phobia affect my oral health?
Unfortunately, dental phobia can have a significant impact on your oral health. When fear of the dentist keeps you from going to regular dental appointments, it can lead to neglecting important check-ups and treatments. Over time, this can cause small issues, like cavities or gum disease, to turn into more serious problems, such as tooth loss or infections. People with dental phobia may avoid necessary treatments, even when experiencing pain or discomfort, due to fear of the dentist. As a result, minor issues that could have been easily treated with a routine visit may worsen over time, becoming more complex and costly—perpetuating the cycle of dental anxiety.
Can dental phobia be cured?
While dental phobia may not be completely “curable” for everyone, it can definitely be managed and greatly reduced with the right approach. At Nanaimo Smiles, we believe in helping you take control of your fear so you can get the dental care you need without anxiety holding you back. Overcoming dental phobia often involves a combination of strategies, such as gradual exposure to dental visits, relaxation techniques, and open communication with your Nanaimo dentist about your fears.
For some, therapy can be incredibly helpful in addressing the root causes of your dental phobia and learning coping mechanisms. At Nanaimo Smiles, we also offer sedation options, such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help manage anxiety during dentist appointments. Above all, our Nanaimo dentists and dental hygienists are here to listen, be patient, and work with you at your pace. While it might take some time, many people find that with the right support, their dental phobia can become much more manageable, allowing them to maintain a healthy smile without fear.
How can my Nanaimo dentist help me overcome dental phobia?
Overcoming your fear of the dentist is a personal journey, but at Nanaimo Smiles, we’re here to help make the process as easy and comfortable as possible. The first step is open communication—let your Nanaimo dentist and dental hygienist know about your fears so they can tailor your experience to make you feel at ease. We’ll take things at your pace, whether that means starting with a simple check-up or just visiting our Nanaimo dental office to get familiar with the space.
You can also try relaxation techniques before and during your appointment, like deep breathing, listening to calming music, or practicing mindfulness. Some of our Nanaimo patients find it helpful to bring a friend or family member for support, and we offer soothing items in our Nanaimo dental office such as soft blankets, pillows and overhead-mounted TVs for distraction.
We also offer sedation options, such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help you relax and feel more comfortable during your dental procedure. Additionally, gradual exposure—starting with short, non-invasive visits and slowly working up to more involved treatments—can help ease your dental phobia over time.
Overcome Your Dental Fears in Nanaimo
At Nanaimo Smiles, we’re dedicated to helping you overcome your dental phobia with patience, understanding, and personalized dental care. We’ll work with you at your own pace, offering calming techniques, clear communication, and sedation options if needed to ensure every dentist visit is as stress-free and comfortable as possible.
If you have any questions about how our Nanaimo dental team can help you overcome dental phobia, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Related Reading: How to Ease Your Dental Anxiety