Fear of the dentist is not only for small children. Many adults put off a visit until a tooth aches badly, and that delay makes treatment more complicated.
- Fear of the dentist is very common among adults and there is nothing to be ashamed of.
- Telling the dentist plainly, agreeing on a stop signal and saying where you are sensitive make the visit gentler.
- Slow deep breathing, a quiet appointment time and a family member with you reduce tension.
- Delaying for long makes decay and gum inflammation more complicated, so have regular check ups.
Many adults are so afraid that just hearing the sound of the drill makes their heart race, so they put off check ups for years. Fear of the dentist is very common, nothing to be ashamed of, and there are many ways to ease it.
Why are adults afraid of the dentist?
- Painful memories from visits in childhood.
- Fear of pain from an injection, a drill or an extraction.
- Fear of losing control when lying back with the mouth open.
- Fear of being judged because the teeth have not been cared for in a long time.
- Worry about cost, or about hearing bad news about their condition.
Ways to feel less anxious
- Tell the dentist plainly that you are afraid. The dentist will explain each step and slow down for you.
- Agree on a stop signal, such as raising a hand, so the dentist pauses as soon as you need it.
- Tell the dentist where you are sensitive and want to be numbed well, see whether anaesthetic for extractions and fillings is safe.
- Breathe slowly and deeply, and relax your shoulders and jaw during the visit.
- Bring a family member for reassurance, and bring gentle music if you like.
Preparing before the visit
Write down what you want to ask, and choose a quiet time so you do not have to wait long and get tense. See also what to ask the dentist before treatment and whether you need to fast before a dental visit and how to prepare.
Do not delay too long
Decay or gum inflammation left for a long time is usually more complicated and more painful than when dealt with early. Regular check ups let the dentist find and treat problems while they are small, so visits are usually shorter and gentler.
When should you visit Ky Hoa Dental Clinic?
Nha Khoa Ky Hoa is at 266A - 268, 3 Thang 2 Street, Hoa Hung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. You can call the hotline 028.3868.1097 to ask about quieter times first, or walk in during opening hours and tell the dentist about your worries so we can take it slowly and gently for you.
Frequently asked questions
Is being afraid of the dentist unusual?
No. Many adults are afraid of the dentist. The important thing is to tell the dentist plainly so you can be supported.
How can I stop being afraid of pain at the dentist?
Agree on a stop signal with the dentist, say where you are sensitive and want to be well numbed. Slow deep breathing also helps relaxation.
Is it a problem to delay a check up?
If left too long, decay and gum inflammation are usually more complicated and painful than when dealt with early, so do not delay too long.