Dentophobia,is the fear of dentists or the fear of dental work. Approximately 7 out of 10 adults fear visiting the dentist. For the majority this fear is the result of traumatic experiences in the past, or the fear of pain. After such experiences it is normal that even distinctive smells or sounds associated with the dentist can elicit such fear and bring back memories of traumatic experiences. Is it the pain of the local anaesthetic injection?Or the anticipated pain of the drilling itself?
We must ask ourselves–has dentistry changed from our childhood? Should we still fear dentistry in this modern era of pioneering technology with wealth of materials and instruments?
Practicing Gentle Dentistry where the experts work in a manner that eases the fear(either by explanation of dental procedures one is performing or playing gentle music etc)can also help patients overcome this phobia.
Some dentists recommend keeping stress balls which the patient can press to ease his anxiety or listeningn to favorite music can also do the trick.
Having a supportive family member or friend along for the treatment
by time fear may reduce when patient start trusting the dentist.