Are you afraid of going to the dentist? Do you do everything you can to avoid seeing the dentist?
Fear and anxiety are powerful feelings that control people every day. When it comes to extreme dental phobia and going to the dentist, it may seem like something straight out of a horror film. Although millions fear the dentist, it shouldn’t stop you from getting proper dental care.
If you’re ready to take the next step and seek dental care but feeling some fear, you’re not alone. Read on for the psychology behind extreme dental phobia. Knowing why phobia occurs can help you take the next step to overcome it.
Previous Traumatic Experiences
Previous traumatic experiences are a common cause of extreme dental phobia. A person who had a negative experience at the dentist, such as a painful or invasive procedure, may fear returning to the dentist.
This fear can be so intense. It prevents the person from seeking dental care, even when they have dental problems that need attention. If someone has had a negative dental experience, they must discuss it with their dentist or a mental health professional.
By examining the experience and the emotions it evokes, the person can begin to work through their fears and develop a plan to address their dental needs.
Fear of Loss of Control
Fear of losing control is another common psychological factor contributing to extreme dental phobia. Dental procedures can make a person feel vulnerable and helpless, thus triggering dental anxiety and panic. This fear can be particularly pronounced for people who have a strong need for control in their lives.
Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, visualization, or progressive muscle relaxation, can help the person feel more in control of their body and emotions. By learning these techniques, the person can feel empowered to manage their anxiety and take an active role in their care.
Fear of Pain
Fear of pain is a common psychological factor contributing to extreme dental phobia. Many people associate dental procedures with pain.
It creates a sense of dread and anxiety. This fear can be particularly pronounced for people with previous painful dental experiences or a low pain threshold.
To address the fear of pain, dentists may ensure that the person is as comfortable as possible during the procedure. This may include using local anesthesia to numb the area being worked on.
It is best to deal with dentists that are experienced in working with patients that are suffering from extreme phobia. There are also procedures that involves dental phobia treatment. If you’re interested in more info on this dentistry, click the link.
How Extreme Dental Phobia Affects People
Understanding the psychology behind extreme dental phobia is important for patients and providers alike so that people can continue to ensure their dental health is the top priority. It is essential to understand what causes such extreme fear and why it is so important that caregivers learn to manage it effectively.
Follow our recommendations to begin to address and understand the psychology of dental phobias.
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