What steps can we take to help someone deal with their fear of dentistry?

Some people have a fear of dentistry to the extent that they avoid visiting the dentist even for their basic dental needs. They do not want to admit this fact or even share their fear with those closest to them. They would rather give excuses and even cancel appointments with the dentist, than explain their fright to go through a dental procedure.

However, this situation need not continue. Undue fear can be overcome by making the patient comfortable and by winning their confidence. The best way to achieve this is by building their trust and maintaining caring relationships over a period of time until they are confident enough to talk about their fear.

The next step is to plan a conversation outside the clinical area to eliminate the fear anything being done inside their mouth.

The casual talk can center on their past history and the incidents that developed this fear of dentistry in them. It must be done with great understanding and genuine care for the patient. We have to reassure him or her that their fears will gradually subside as they gain positive experiences, and that a professional, caring, and compassionate dentist will always provide treatment in the gentlest manner, causing the least amount of pain.

It is likely that the newly gained confidence and trust will encourage the patient to bravely face the dentist. The dentist may also administer the use of different modalities like nitrous oxide and pre medication that keeps the patient conscious, yet not feel the pain when treated.

Should oral medications be given, it is also advisable that someone drives to and from their appointment. Casual conversations about other people with similar fears who have successfully overcome their fear of dentistry may also help the patient by finding common ground, and knowing that they are not alone.

It must also be explained that the use of the latest technology in dentistry minimizes the pain that may have been observed by patients years ago. In fact, dentistry is essential to live a healthy lifestyle and should not be avoided at any cost.

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