Dentistry can bring on night sweats, rapid heart beat, hyperventilation and all of the symptoms of a huge anxiety rush. This type of feeling is usually felt before a dental appointment for those who have had bad experiences.
These bad events can stay with people for decades. The level of fear can last for many years because the fear is ingrained into that person’s memory. Because we deal with very close spaces and are directly in one of the most sensitive and personal areas on the human body trust must be one of the most importent issues that the dental patient must have.
Modern dentistry has equipped ourselves to deal with these issues to make visits much more comfortable. For example, we use sedation to put people in a state where they have no memory of their procedure and are very relaxed when they get to the office and during the procedures. It also allows for them to get many services done at one visit so they don’t have to continually return to our office. Another option is to plug in a DVD into our virtual reality glasses and watch a movie.
It is critical to have dental procedures pain free. Anesthetics properly administered do a great job in controlling pain and therefore anxiety, and as a result trust starts to become developed.
Because fear comes from a loss of control it is very important that you are in complete control of the procedure and have a way of stopping if you need a break or are in pain and in need of additional anesthesia.
Anxiety stems from fear of the unknown and when you are not sure the anxiety increases. It is also very helpful if all of your questions are answered when you need additional information.
Because relationships are so important and can’t be stressed enough we have personal interviews with the patient so that their needs are met and so that there are no misunderstandings.
Please don’t let your bad experiences affect your present condition. Modern dentistry emphasizes prevention over all other things so do yourself a favor and don’t delay this any longer. Your needs will be met and you will be comfortable having treatment as this is my promise. You will be amazed at how easy and user friendly dental care can be.
It is easier said than done, but don’t be embarrassed if you haven’t been to a dentist in years and are afraid of past judgments from the dentist. A modern dentist will help you look forward to your future care and would never lecture you.
About The Author
Dr. Robert Antolak, DDS graduated from the University of Michigan in 1987 with his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. He is dedicated to providing the highest quality and appropriate cosmetic, sedation and general dentistry in the most comfortable and gentle way possible. Because being a dentist has been a lifelong dream, Dr. Antolak has a passion for the profession. He enjoys helping people feel better about their smiles and therefore their self-image with dental implant and cosmetic dentistry. His Dental Practice is located in Shelby Township, Michigan. For more information visit The Gentle Dentist.
