People that suffer from 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 an airplane 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 entering a vicious cycle of worsening oral health.
Fear causes the person to avoid dental checkups for years. When a minor dental dilemma (like a small cavity) advances until it hits a nerve and results in pain, the patient is forced to visit the dentist.
At this point, the necessary therapy is a major procedure (possibly an extraction followed by a dental implant). The treatment reinforces the dental phobia and, once again, the patient stays away from the dentist’s office. That’s how some men and women 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 individuals. Are you one of them?
At Endres Gateway Dentistry, we want to help anxious patients successfully overcome or at least manage their trepidation so they can withstand twice-yearly checkups and cleanings. Preventive dentistry is the only method to protect teeth and gums.
If you haven’t had a dental examination in a while, please schedule a consultation. You can speak with Doctor Endres 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 Endres Gateway Dentistry, we have successfully treated many patients just like you. We invite you to schedule a consultation today.
Contact Endres Gateway Dentistry:
513-791-8880
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
9380 Montgomery Rd Ste 204
Montgomery, Ohio
45242
