Let me be the first to say that the dentist is not my friend! Unfortunately, I inherited a gum disease and have had problems with my teeth since I was a child.
My first permanent tooth was extracted when I was around 11 years old. I can’t remember what caused the need for the removal. I can only recall the dentist sending me home with gauze in my mouth. Since then, I’ve had to have so much dental work.
The problem is I can only handle a dental procedure if the dentist is quick and gentle. My family members don’t understand my fear. They recommend dentists that they’re comfortable with, but it doesn’t work out the same for me. I’ve gone to a couple of kind and understanding dentists. However, I’ve also had terrifying experiences.
One year, I needed a root canal. I went to a new dentist for the procedure, and it was horrific! The tooth hurt for 10 years after the root canal. And I refused to see a dentist for that tooth the entire time.
They Keep Causing Me Pain
On one occasion, I found a sweet and soft-spoken dentist. She helped me to ease my way back into the dental chair. But, during my examination, she discovered that I needed a root canal performed on another tooth.
So, I went to see a specialist within the same practice. Unfortunately, I experienced another terrifying root canal. That one seemed to last forever. And, worst of all, my mouth never seemed to get numb, even after like 5 shots of Novocaine. I literally felt everything he was doing.
It gets worse. During the visit, the specialist discovered that the tooth I had the first root canal on was broken under the crown and couldn’t be saved. I can only assume that the dentist who performed the first root canal broke the tooth while placing the crown on it, which is the reason it never stopped hurting.
After losing that tooth, I didn’t see a dentist for another 5 years. I became extremely apprehensive after the 2nd root canal. I was even afraid to go for a dental cleaning.
Don’t get me wrong, I know the importance of good dental hygiene. As the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends, I brush my teeth twice daily for 2 minutes (I use the timer on my phone). And I floss every night.
Once I finally convinced myself to go to the dentist again, I was seen by a kindhearted and somewhat gentle doctor. Unfortunately, the fear didn’t go away.
The Dentist Gives Me Anxiety
I thought I was alone with my dental fear aka dentophobia, but I’ve met many others with the same condition. And believe it or not, people are not ashamed to tell you that they’re afraid to go to the dentist.
In fact, the Cleveland Clinic reports that “some studies suggest that nearly 3% of men and almost 5% of women have dentophobia.” Cleveland Clinic also identifies several reasons for this fear, such as:
- Previous negative dental experiences
- Worries over your oral health
- Inherited anxiety disorder
I’ve worked with individuals who required oral sedatives, papoose restraints, or intravenous sedation to get through dental appointments. Just telling them about an upcoming appointment would cause anxiety and sometimes illness. I once observed a person vomit suddenly before ever making it to the dentist’s office.
If you have this fear, you may need a family member or friend to accompany you to dental appointments. Having someone with you for support might enable you to remain calm.
One thing that helped me get through an appointment was the dentist telling me to raise my hand if I needed a break. It gave me a sense of control while in the chair.
Good Dental Health Is So Important
It’s important to note that neglected teeth can lead to dental problems and other health issues.
MedicalNewsToday offers 8 tips on how to ensure that you’ll have healthy teeth and gums:
- Regular brushing
- Using products with fluoride
- Daily flossing
- Routine dental visits
- Avoiding smoking
- Using mouthwash
- Limiting certain foods
- Replacing sugary drinks with water
If you or your loved one has dental fear, you may want to discuss your concerns with your medical provider. Dentophobia is a serious condition that may need treatment, such as medication and therapy, to help you prepare for and get through a dental appointment.
