Dr. John I am fifty-five years old and can count the number of times I have been to the dentist on one hand. I have not seen a dentist in 15 years. Just thinking about going to the dentist causes me anxiety and fear. I have tried to ignore my dental pain for as long as I can, now I have several teeth that hurt. I saw dental advertisement in the paper stating that with just the administration of a pill I could sleep through my treatment, this sounds really good to me. Does it work, is it safe? Nelson - Daly City Studies have reported that fifty percent of the American population does not seek regular dental care. Millions of Americans avoid much needed dental care due to anxiety and fear surrounding the dental experience. Visions of shots, invasive needles, and the high pitch of the dental drill keep many people out of the dental office. The key to good oral health is prevention - stopping problems before they arise. Unfortunately, people who suffer from dental anxiety often fail to visit the dentist for routine care. When they finally do go, often a small or preventable problem has turned into a problem that will require major intervention. My first recommendation is to find an empathetic dentist! Inform the dental receptionists when you call for an appointment that you have been avoiding the dentist due to anxiety and fear, and take special notice whether or not the receptionist makes you feel more relaxed and comfortable. If you find a friendly compashionate person on the other end of the phone chances are the office caters to patients with dental fear. I suggest you set up your first appointment as a consultation only, without any procedures scheduled. This will allow you meet the office staff, and spend time with the doctor. During this first meeting with the doctor, you should be completely candid about your phobia, and inquire what methods are available to help mitigate your fears. Remember that an educated patient is a less anxious patient. Make sure your dentist explains each procedure you plan to undergo. Good dentists usually have videos, pamphlets, or books explaining the procedures they perform. A good dentist will answer all the questions you have thus lessening your anxiety. In our office, we cater to patients with dental fear, and utilize both Inhalation Sedation, [nitrous oxide, laughing gas] as well as oral sedation. Both can be effective and relatively safe, when administered by a properly trained dentist. I am confident that if you select the right dentist you will be well on your way to anxiety free dental visits. As you get to know and trust your dentist, hygienist and other members of the practice, you will find your fears begin to diminish. In time, regular dental care will become a normal part of your life. Better Smiles for all, Dr John J. Russo dds
San Bruno, Ca |
