Does Odontophobia Keep You from Your Best Smile?

Are you one of those people that does anything to prevent yourself from going to the dentist? Does the sound of a dentist’s drill give you a relentless sense of dread? You aren’t alone. Dental anxiety is actually quite common. So much so, it’s officially called odontophobia, and it affects nearly 30% of the adult population and 43% of children.

Have you ever asked yourself why you have developed this fear of the dentist? Negative experiences in childhood is the most common cause of dental fear. A painful procedure or an unpleasant attitude from a care provider can start you off on the wrong foot when it comes to dental visits.

Another reason we develop this anxiety may not even be caused by our own doing. Our relatives are also possible predictors of dental anxieties and your attitude may reflect that. In fact, mothers who had high levels of anxiety are more likely to have children who react similarly.

Want to fix the issue? Try these tips:

Go regularly. If you visit the dentist every 6 months for a checkup, your visits will gradually get easier and your mouth will be healthier.

Tell your dentist. You’re not the first anxious patient in creation. Tell your dentist about your anxiety, so they can help put you at ease.

Choose the right dentist. Pediatric dentistry is a specialty, not a marketing ploy. If you’re concerned about passing your fear to your child — see a dentist who knows about tiny teeth.

You’re going to do great. We just know it!

Contact Creative Dimensions Dentistry in Castro Valley, CA at 510-881-8010 to schedule an appointment for a checkup today. 

Creative Dimensions Dentistry proudly serves Castro Valley, San Leandro, Hayward, Oakland, Fremont, Russell City and all surrounding areas.