Regular dental checkups are vitally important for maintaining your oral health and overall health. These checkups entail cleanings by a dental hygienist and an evaluation by the dentist, and the visit may also include X-rays, fillings of cavities, or anything else needed to ensure a healthy mouth.
However, due to various personal reasons and experiences, some people dread going to the dentist.
Dental anxiety and phobia are common. It has been estimated that up to 15% of Americans avoid seeing the dentist because of fear. If this describes you, it is important to your health to find a dentist who you can trust and who makes you feel comfortable. A family dentist specializes in dental care for people of all ages, so your comfort is of utmost importance.
Causes of Fear of the Dentist
Dental phobia is when people experience such fear of going to the dentist that they would rather put up with infections, pain, or broken teeth than visit a dentist. However, finding the right dentist can help you get rid of this fear.
Dental fear and phobia can be caused by any of the following:
- Discomfort – It is difficult to complete a dental procedure, including cleanings, without any feeling of discomfort in the mouth by the patient. Many people feel vulnerable having their mouth open for so long. A good dentist or hygienist will encourage you to raise your hand and take a break as often as necessary during the appointment. You should not feel rushed.
- Past Experience – Many people who have had negative dental experiences in the past, such as pain or an intimidating dentist, are likely to develop anxiety about future dental visits.
- Fear of Needles – Injections are used to numb the mouth during certain dental procedures. For people with needle phobia, this may lead to fear of the dentist.
How a Family Dentist Can Help
Dentists who practice family dentistry are adept at dealing with the oral health of people of virtually all ages, and making you feel happy and comfortable during your dental visit. It is important to establish a positive first impression of the dentist at a young age in order to avoid having any dental phobias in the future.
Everyone has different teeth and therefore different dental conditions. Children have different dental needs than do adults, so a family dentist will know how best to treat each family member.
Since family dentists are skilled in handling different age groups, scared patients are more likely to develop trust with this type of dentist and feel more comfortable in the dental chair. As trust and familiarity build in the patient psychologically, the patient’s stress and anxiety will eventually be eased.
Family Dentistry in Greater Las Vegas
For someone who has a fear of the dentist, a friendly family dentist can help you get past this fear. Here at Dedicated Dental, we are committed to providing you with the best dental care in an inviting, comfortable environment that makes you feel like family. Our friendly and caring staff looks forward to serving your family!
To schedule a dental exam, feel free to contact us today by calling us at (702) 566-5509 or request an appointment via our simple online form. Let us help you conveniently set an appointment to fit your busy schedule – an appointment you will look forward to!
