If you have put off needed dental treatment out of fear going to the dentist, you’re not alone. It is estimated that nearly 75% of adults in the U.S. experience some amount of fear with regards to visiting a dentist. Of that percentage, between 10% – 20% of Americans suffer from dental anxiety. That’s about 30 million to 60 million people! It is a universal phenomenon. Maybe you had a traumatic experience in the past. Or maybe you’ve only seen the dentist when you were in extreme pain and therefor, associate going to the dentist with hurting. Whatever the root of your fear, it doesn’t mean you have to suffer with dental problems because of that fear.
Dental phobia is a more serious condition than anxiety. People who suffer from dental phobia typically only go to the dentist when they feel they have no other choice; because they are in so much pain. This feeling can leave you feeling panic stricken or literally terrified, and as a result, can be highly detrimental to your oral health. Some people who suffer from dental phobia often put off even routine care for years or even decades. Some people cannot sleep the night before a dental visit, or unexpectedly cry as soon as they it in the dental chair. Some find it hard to even breathe when leaning back and having their teeth looked at by the dentist, never mind having any type of procedure performed! These feelings of anxiety stem from fear. Typically, fear that stems from a traumatic past experience, and may be from many different things: Fear of pain, fear of the (anesthetic) injection they may need in order to have treatment done, fear of not being able to see or control what’s going on in their mouth, fear of not being able to breathe… and the list goes on. If this describes your feelings about going to the dentist, luckily, there is hope!
Communication is key. The key to coping is to discuss these feelings openly with your dentist, so they can help you find the solution to managing it, (and hopefully, overcoming it, in time). If he or she doesn’t take your fears seriously, find another dentist.
Whether it’s your first time visiting our office or your hundredth, we want you to always feel calm, cared for and at ease. We offer multiple amenities for your comfort. Whether it’s soothing music, a soft, comfortable blanket, pillows, or just old fashioned hand holding, we’ve got you covered. We also offer nitrous oxide, oral sedation and IV sedation. Whatever level of anxiety you experience, we can help ease.
Dr. Parikh and our team take every step possible to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible, at all times. To plan ahead and alleviate your anxiety prior to and during your treatment visits. We have MANY, MANY patients who, prior to coming to our office, suffered from these feelings and put off taking care of their oral health and fixing their smiles. They have proven to be our very best referral sources, which tells us we must be doing something right!
If you or someone you love suffers from dental anxiety or dental phobia, come see Dr. Parikh and his gentle, caring team. Not only does he have the experience, credentials and training to manage all manners of dental treatments whether it involves dental implants or a regular hygiene visit, he has a kind, compassionate and comforting chair side manner that will help put you at ease and (finally!) allow you to have the dental treatment you need.
Going to the Dentist During the Coronavirus Outbreak
In the midst of Coronavirus spreading, we at Ascot Family Dental have been monitoring this situation very closely for the past two months. As health care providers during a pandemic, we will continue with the relief of pain and management of infection with our patients in order to keep them out of hospitals and emergency departments. For more information on what to expect during your visit with us and the measures we are taking in accordance with the CDC, please visit our our website.
