Fear of the Dentist
I developed a fear of the dentist while in college. Because of a shoe string budget I made a decision to go to the dental college when I needed a root canal. This was one of those decisions in your life where you wish you had a “bad idea elf” that would sit on your shoulder and slap you when you were about to make a horrible decision. The procedure lasted 3 visits of 4 hours each trip. My girl friend at the time would drop me off and pick me up after each dental treatment. Each time she picked me up I was soaking wet because I had sweat through my clothes. My fear stems from the pain that I experienced and also the lack of control that I felt with the rubber dam in my mouth not knowing how long the procedure would last. I have had a fear of the dentist ever since. Many people have had a traumatic experience and as a result have developed a fear of the dentist. There are many things that can be done to minimize this phobia. The first and easiest is just to say to your dentist “I have a low pain threshold and would like to know what can be done to make me more comfortable.” You have to be assertive to ensure you will feel comfortable. I always ask the dentist for some breaks during a procedure as well. This will help you to feel more in control and less fearful. Make sure that you have something to distract you. I bring my ipod to my dentist so I can’t hear the sounds. Most dentists have a tv that you can watch or just some peaceful scene playing on a computer. Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing and controlled breathing. This will help lower your heart rate and ease muscle tension. Ask your dentist what methods of sedation or available. There are 3 different types of sedation that can be used. Nitrous Oxide, IV sedation and oral sedation. Have a discussion with your dentist to figure out which type of sedation is right for you.
