Fear of the dentist is much more common than it might seem. According to statistics, up to 75% of the population is afraid of visiting the dentist, and about 15% avoid treatment altogether due to a severe phobia. This fear can manifest itself in various forms: from mild anxiety to full-blown panic at the mere thought of the dentist's chair. However, visits to the dentist are extremely important, not only for the health of your teeth, but also for the health of your entire body. In this article, we will explain how to overcome your fear of the dentist and why it is necessary.

Why does fear of the dentist arise?

Before you can overcome your fear, it is important to understand its cause. The most common causes of fear of the dentist are:

  • Bad experiences in the past. A painful procedure in childhood can leave deep scars on the psyche.
  • Fear of pain. Even with modern painkillers, many people are afraid of pain.
  • Feeling of loss of control. Lying in a chair with your mouth open, you feel helpless and insecure.
  • Shame. People who haven't been to the dentist for a long time are often ashamed of the condition of their teeth.
  • Sounds and smells. Many people find the characteristic sounds of a dental drill and the smell of disinfectants unpleasant.

The good news is that each of these fears can be overcome with preparation, the right doctor, and some psychological work on yourself.

1. Admit your fear

The first step to overcoming a phobia is to acknowledge its existence. You don't need to be ashamed or ignore the fear: it is real, and you are not alone. Try to formulate what exactly you are afraid of: pain, noises, injections, or a medical examination? A more precise definition will help you work specifically with emotions.

2. Find “your” dentist

A great dentist is half the battle. Pay attention to reviews, ask your friends for recommendations, and look at clinic ratings. Many modern dental clinics offer free consultations – use these to simply talk to the doctor, familiarize yourself with the situation, and ask all your questions. It is important to choose a specialist who knows how to deal with anxious patients: friendly, patient, and ready to explain each procedure.

3. Start small

Immediate treatment of complex problems or insertion of implants is not necessary. Start with a professional teeth cleaning or consultation. Getting to know the clinic and its procedures in a relaxed environment will help you settle in and understand that dentistry is no longer the scary profession of the past.

4. Use relaxation techniques

Anxiety causes not only psychological discomfort, but also physical symptoms: increased heart rate, sweating, trembling. To reduce anxiety levels, use proven relaxation techniques:

  • Deep breathing. Breathe in slowly through your nose for 4 seconds, hold your breath, and breathe out through your mouth for 6-8 seconds – this helps calm the nervous system.
  • Meditations. A short meditation before your visit can significantly reduce anxiety levels.
  • Music. Many clinics allow you to listen to music through headphones during the procedure. Choose calm music that will help you relax.

5. Talk to your dentist about your fears

One of the most effective ways to overcome fear is through open dialogue. Tell your dentist you are anxious and ask them to explain what will happen during the treatment. Agree on a “hand signal” if you feel uncomfortable or want to take a break. This restores a sense of control and reduces stress.

6. Don't postpone the visit – it will only make the anxiety worse

Many people think: “I'll just wait a little longer, and the fear will go away by itself.” But usually it just gets stronger. In addition, the dental problem may worsen during this time, requiring more complex and long-term treatment. The sooner you start, the easier and calmer the visits will be.

7. Try the help of a psychologist

If the fear is too great and you cannot cope with it on your own, it makes sense to consult a psychologist. Today, there are many effective methods: cognitive behavioral therapy, working with body sensations, and hypnotherapy. Sometimes, just a few sessions are enough to feel significant relief.