People that experience dental phobia (Dentophobia) may take comfort in the fact that it is a fairly common diagnosable mental condition. At least they know they are not alone and that the medical community takes it seriously.
Phobias like Pteromerhanophobia: (the fear of flying) and Acrophobibia (the fear of heights) can be difficult, but a person can live a perfectly healthy life without getting on a jet or riding an elevator to the top of the Chrysler Building.
A person who suffers from dental phobia or dental anxiety is at risk of falling into a vicious cycle of declining oral health.
Fear causes the person to abstain from dental checkups for years. When a minor dental issue (like a small cavity) advances until it hits a nerve and leads to pain, the patient is forced to visit the dentist.
At this point, the necessary remedy is a major procedure (possibly an extraction followed by a dental implant). The process reinforces the dental phobia and, once again, the patient stays away from the dentist’s office. That’s how some people end up losing teeth at a relatively young age.
Experts believe that the prevalence of dental phobia may be as high as one in four men and women. Are you one of them?
At Blaisdell Family Dentistry, we want to help apprehensive patients successfully overcome or at least manage their apprehension so they can withstand twice-yearly checkups and cleanings. Preventive dentistry is the most effective way to protect teeth and gums.
If you haven’t had a dental examination in a while, please schedule a consultation. You can speak with Drs. Blaisdell about the many options available including behavioral therapy, cognitive therapy, and conscious sedation (sleep dentistry).
If you are terrified about going to the dentist, there is hope. At Blaisdell Family Dentistry, we have successfully treated many patients just like you. We invite you to schedule a consultation today.
Contact Blaisdell Family Dentistry:
208-377-9696
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
8877 W Hackamore Dr
Boise, ID
83709
