• 15-20% of the population has dental phobia, mostly children, and many experience dental anxiety.
• Lack of education about oral health and prior negative experiences at the dentist can cause dental fear.
• Unaddressed dental fear can lead to tooth decay and periodontal disease.
• Education can be the first step in overcoming dental fear, along with finding a trusted dentist.
Dental fear is a real issue for many young people today. It is estimated that 15-20% of the population has dental phobia, mostly children, and a large percentage experience some dental anxiety. This can have a profound effect on oral health and overall well-being.
Studies have shown that dental fear is rising among young adults, with nearly half of all respondents reporting some degree of anxiety when visiting their dentist. This fear can be rooted in various factors, from prior negative experiences to common misconceptions. Here’s a look at what might be causing this dental fear and how to overcome it.
Causes of Dental Fear
Studies have shown several potential sources of dental fear among young people. And despite constant reminders that visiting the dentist is important, many still avoid regular visits. Here are some of the most common causes of dental fear in young patients:
Lack of Education About Oral Health
One potential cause of dental fear in young people could be a lack of education about oral health. Many schools do not offer comprehensive courses on the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene, which leaves students without the knowledge to properly care for their teeth.
Additionally, many parents avoid discussing dental health with their children due to their anxieties or lack of knowledge about it. When you are not educated on keeping your teeth healthy and why it’s important, you may develop an underlying fear that going to the dentist will result in pain or other negative consequences.
Negative Experiences at the Dentist
Another contributing factor to dental fear could be negative experiences at the dentist’s office. For example, if you have had a traumatic experience, such as having multiple cavities filled or undergoing an invasive procedure without proper sedation, you may develop an aversion to returning to the dentist out of fear that these same experiences may happen again.
In addition, if you have encountered staff members who were unkind or indifferent towards them during your visit—such as receptionists who are unfriendly or dentists who did not explain procedures clearly or provide adequate comfort—you may become fearful of returning altogether due to these negative experiences.
Fear of What You Might Find Out
The fear of the unknown is another potential cause of dental fear. For example, if you avoid visiting the dentist due to anxiety about what may be discovered, such as needing extensive treatments or having cavities, you may develop an underlying dread of going for regular checkups.
Consequences of Avoiding the Dentist
Unaddressed dental fear can have serious consequences. Regular checkups and preventive care are essential to maintaining good oral health, and avoiding the dentist could lead to increased dental issues such as the following:
Tooth Decay
Just because you brush your teeth regularly does not mean that you are free from the risk of decay and cavities. If you refuse to have a regular dental checkup, you may be more vulnerable to bacteria and plaque build-up, which can lead to significant damage in the long run.
Periodontal Disease
Gum disease is another common dental issue that could arise from avoiding a visit to the dentist. It’s important to check your gums for signs of inflammation, swelling, and infection. Without regular visits to the dentist, these symptoms may go undetected until it is too late, and more advanced treatment will be required.
Overcoming Dental Fear
The first step in overcoming dental fear is education—understanding why regular visits are important and what types of procedures might be necessary during treatment will help alleviate any confusion or uncertainty about what will happen during your appointment.
You can find dental resources online or ask your dentist for more information about what to expect during a routine checkup or treatment. You can also make the process easier and more comfortable, such as listening to calming music while in the dental chair, bringing a friend or family member with you for support, or discussing sedation options with your dentist.
Finally, find a dentist you feel comfortable with—make sure you ask questions about their qualifications and experience before deciding on the one you trust and feel secure with. A trusted dentist can explain, without judgment, the importance of preventive care and help you feel at ease during all your visits. They will also be able to ease you into getting into procedures for any tooth replacement option if the damage is extensive.
Tooth replacements are an excellent way to restore your smile’s function and look, as they eliminate any gaps left due to missing teeth. This can help improve your appearance and boost your self-confidence.
Dental fear should not prevent you from seeking regular checkups and treatments. With the right care and support, you can learn to trust your dentist and maintain a healthy smile for years.
