More than a third of the population experiences dental anxiety, and some totally avoid the dentist out of fear. Don't put your health at risk; find a modern office focused on patient comfort, like Snow Family Dentistry in Mesa, Arizona. Learn more at https://www.snowfamilydentistry.com
If you're afraid of the dentist, you're far from alone.
More than a third of the population experiences dental anxiety, according to the National Institutes of Health, while another 12 percent suffer from extreme fear known as dentophobia.
The consequences of avoiding the dentist can be just as scary. There are the obvious problems, like cavities, tooth loss, and gum disease, but dental neglect is also linked to diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. A study the NIH cited found three-quarters of respondents felt their oral health diminished their quality of life.
In short, don't skip the dentist - skip dentists who aren't sensitive to a fear almost half the population shares. Be sure to check the reviews and look for these green flags:
1. A listening ear Individuals with strong dental anxiety usually come by it honestly. Many have had negative past experiences; others have sensory overload from the sound or pressure of drilling. Some experience claustrophobia, feeling like they're stuck in the chair.
Regardless of the reason, you shouldn't have to convince your dentist to care about your feelings. Look for dentists who offer "meet and greets" or office tours. It can set you on the right track for a good visit.
2. Setting the Mood Rather than clinical white walls and fluorescent lighting, many dentists now wash their office walls in inviting paint colors bathed in warm lighting. Some incorporate artwork, potted plants, aromatherapy, or massage chairs to set their patients at ease.
While old school practitioners may scoff, dentists have a vested interest in making their patients comfortable, according to the NIH. Besides caring about individuals, making patients comfortable ensures return visits, positive reviews that attract more customers, and reduces workplace stress. It's a win-win.
3. Sedation Options Even the coziest dentist office may still strike fear into some dentophobic hearts. For those, sedation may be the best option, according to Snow Family Dentistry. The Mesa, Arizona dental practice offers several sedation choices. Calming nitrous oxide gas is a traditional way to steady nerves, while injectable local anesthetics prevent patients from feeling pain.
For those with severe fear or trauma, a conscious sedation pill is the best bet to provide a feeling of deep relaxation. Snow Family Dentistry advises that sedation pills and even IV sedation may be suited for patients who have low pain thresholds, who have a tough time sitting still, have a strong gag reflex, or tooth sensitivity.
There's no one-size fits all solution, so look for a dental practice that meets your specific needs and concerns And if you're in the Mesa area, consider giving Snow Family Dentistry a try. The patient-focused clinic has nearly 1,000 Google reviews with an overall score of 4.9 stars and lives by the motto, "where dentistry meets hospitality."
Click on the link in the description to learn more! Snow Family Dentistry City: Mesa Address: 4420 E Baseline Rd Website: https://snowfamilydentistry.com/