WHY DO I FEAR THE DENTIST?

Dental phobias and anxiety stem from various sources. These can lead to a strongly conditioned fear response. The following are the most common origins of dental fear:

Previously painful or negative experiences during visits to a dentist's office. This can even include careless comments made by a dentist or hygienist during a past examination.

A severe discomfort with feeling helpless and/or out of control in the dental situation.

A sense of embarrassment of your dental neglect and fear of ridicule and/or belittlement when you present to the dental office.

Scary anecdotes of negative dental experiences learned vicariously from family and friends.

Negative, menacing portrayals of dentists in movies, TV, newspapers and magazines.

A sense of depersonalization in the dental process, intensified by today's necessity for the use of barrier precautions, such as masks, latex gloves and shields.

A general fear of the unknown.

Feel free to get our expertise:
Email the Experts or Contact Us at our Office

Next Section: So What Can I Do About My Dental Fear?