Many people who look for a dentist in Clinton MD admit to being really afraid of the procedure. In fact, it is believed that around 20% of the population in this country is so afraid of the dentist, that they don’t get dental treatment at all. Yet, oral health is as important as any other part of health, and going to the dentist, therefore, is absolutely vital. So what is it that frightens people so much, and what can they do about it?
Fear of Pain
When we hear about scraping, filing, and drilling, we instantly think about pain. The tools used in dentistry look sharp and cold, and they don’t look very comforting. However, thanks to dental anesthesia, it is now possible to have dental procedures with little to no pain completely, even if they are very intensive. Additionally, you can agree a signal with your dentist to get them to stop if you feel you need a break at any point.
Fear of Needles
Unfortunately, there is little that can be done about feeling a needle’s pinch. During dental procedures, your mouth will be numbed with Novocain by injecting it in the gums. This is a tiny pinch, however, that lasts only about a second. By the time your brain registers the sting, it will already be over and you won’t feel anything else.
Fear of Relinquishing Control
Another common reason for people to be afraid of the dentist is that they have to give up control. They have to lie on a seat, open their mouth, and simply hope for the best. The dentist leans over their face, and patients cannot see what they are doing. Your position, unfortunately, is unavoidable. However, a good dentist will do all they can to make sure you are put at ease, explaining what they are doing and telling you what to expect from the procedure, both before and during their work.
Fear of Response
Lastly, people don’t go to the dentist because they are afraid of the response they will get from the dentist. The longer someone puts it off, the more they will worry about getting scolded for waiting so long. A good dentist will, indeed, tell you that you should have come sooner. That isn’t because you need a “telling off”, but rather because they are right: you MUST come to the dentist more often to maintain your oral hygiene.
Remember that dentists are highly trained individuals. They are also very proud of what they do, and they will make sure you come out healthier, and with a beautiful smile. If you have been afraid of the dentist for a long time, and you have been putting off your check up for years, try to overcome it today. Take your time – make an appointment with a clinic and explain your fear, telling them that you only want to come for a chat the first time to see what everything is about.