Fear of Dentist & Fear of Dentistry

Modern, safe anesthesia techniques allow the fearful patient to have dental procedures accomplished without the anxiety.

Nearly half of people with dental problems avoid dental care because of their fears and anxiety. However, modern, safe anesthesia techniques allow the fearful patient to have dental procedures accomplished without the anxiety associated with dentistry.

At The Dental Anesthesia Center, we value our patient relationships, making it our priority to deliver the gentle dental care that you deserve from sedation dentists in St. Louis.

Understanding Dental Fear & Phobia

Dental anxiety and fear of going to the dentist are extremely common. It’s estimated that between 9% and 15% of Americans, or 30 to 40 million people, avoid going to the dentist because of this anxiety and fear.

Many people think that “anxiety” and “phobia” are the same thing; however, they are, in fact, different. A person with anxiety will have a sense of uneasiness when going to the dentist. However, a dental phobia, or fear, is a more serious condition. This is an intense dread or fear of going to the dentist. They may have panic attacks and be terrified.

People with dental phobia have a higher risk of gum disease and early tooth loss. They may avoid going to the dentist for years, even decades. As a result, they will put up with pain, gum infections, and even broken or missing teeth.

However, at The Dental Anesthesia Center, we understand this fear and have a comfortable solution for you or your loved one.

Dental Fear Solutions

If you are apprehensive and fearful of dentistry, don’t worry, you are not alone! Many people avoid dental care only to find themselves in a dental crisis suffering needlessly. Does the need for extensive dental care combined with time-consuming visits and overwhelming fear sound familiar? Dr. Michael Hoffmann and Dr. Sean Thoms are general dentists certified by the Missouri Dental Board in General Anesthesia and Deep Sedation. Dr. Victoria Behl is a general dentist who has completed a residency in Hospital Dentistry with additional training in sedation. They understand that fear and have a comfortable solution.

Multiple visits can be eliminated with sedation. Oral health, after years of neglect, can be restored in as little as one visit. Oral sedation, IV sedation, and general anesthesia services are available for all types of dental care, including fillings, crowns and bridges, root canals, gum therapy, implants, cosmetic dentistry, and more. The DIAGNOdent cavity-detecting laser, Velscope light (for cancer screening), and the All-on-Four implant denture are examples of cutting-edge technology. Invisalign Orthodontics and Sleep Apnea appliances are also available.

St. Louis Dental Phobia Dentist

If you or a loved one have not been to the dentist because you suffer from moderate to severe dental phobia, Dr. Michael J. Hoffmann, Dr. Sean M. Thoms, and Dr. Behl are here to help you. At The Dental Anesthesia Center, we value our patient relationships, making it our priority to deliver gentle dental care that you deserve. Call to schedule your appointment at (314) 862-7844.