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One mention of having to visit the dentist can send panic into people who have a genuine fear about dental work and the entire experience in general. The severe stress is not to be overlooked for those who suffer from dental anxiety. If anything, they need extra care and guidance on how to overcome their debilitating phobia in order to receive proper treatments and procedures.
The Symptoms of Dental Anxiety
Dental anxiety causes different responses and different extremes in people, but the general signs typically include:
-A feeling of dread
-Having ‘butterflies in the stomach’
-Feeling worried and helpless
-Racing heartbeat
-Feeling ill
-Sweating and feeling clammy
While each symptom has levels of severity, many sufferers initially get sick in the waiting room. The very thought of having no control over their environment and mouth while in the dentist’s chair leaves them panic-stricken.
The Potential Causes
Because dental anxiety is fairly common, there remains unanswered questions of why we fear the dentist and what’s there to be so nervous about? Here are potential causes that might stir up fear:
-A genuine fear of needles
-Sensitive gag reflex
-Possible embarrassment of current dental health
-Fear of pain
-Feeling confined
-Past negative experiences with dental work
-Fear of the dental drill, especially if not under anesthesia
-Dental stories covered by the media that create panic
How Dr. Kontos Can Help
Now that you’ve identified the causes and symptoms of dental anxiety and have accepted that the problem is real, the next step is to visit Dr. Kontos on a regular basis to overcome your phobias. If you avoid going to the dentist, you’ll run the risk of developing dental health problems that will require more complex treatment and as a result, make your anxiety worse when visiting the dentist.
Dr. Emanuel Kontos is understanding and helpful when patients enter his office. Call ahead and ask to meet with him to discuss your worries. It’s important that you speak with him and his professional team about your dental anxiety in order for them to guarantee your comfort and ease your fears. You’ll have much more security being in the dental chair, and your teeth and gums will surely benefit. Contact his office today. Make that first step towards quality dental health and overcoming your fears!