Managing Your Dental Phobia

It shouldn’t be surprising to learn that dental anxiety and even dental phobias are very common. In fact, around 10-15% of Americans will avoid visiting the dentist because of anxiety and fear. This is around 35 or 40 million people! So, if you’re one who suffers from dental phobias or anxiety, please know that you’re certainly not alone.

People who suffer from a fear of the dentist can experience an increased risk of gum disease and earlier tooth loss. In addition to dental problems, a fear of the dentist can cause emotional damage as well. This is because teeth that are not properly cared for may become damaged or discolored, leading to self-esteem problems and insecurity.

Overcoming or Managing Your Fear of the Dentist

Below are a few ways to manage your anxiety of the dentist, making appointments easier to deal with:

• Let your dentist know – At Syrpes and Pangborn, it’s important to us that you are comfortable and at ease during your appointment. If you have any concerns or fears about your visit to our office, please let us know so that we can help you feel more comfortable.
• Educate yourself or ask for clarification – Fear of the unknown is a contributor to fearing the dentist. Make sure you know everything you can about your treatment or procedure, eliminating the fear of the unknown. If you’re not sure about something, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification.
• Use distraction – Distraction can be a powerful tool in the fight against dental anxiety! Feel free to bring in a set of earbuds so that you can listen to your favorite podcast or some soothing music during your procedure.
• Consider sedation options – If all else fails, sedation options are available to you upon request.

If you’re experiencing fear or anxiety about an upcoming root canal at our Centennial, Colorado endodontic office, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Syrpes and Pangborn is located here in Centennial, but we also see patients from the surrounding areas including Castlewood, Southglenn, Dove Valley, Denver Tech Center, Foxfield, Lone Tree, Cherry Creek, and Greenwood Village, Colorado.