PTSD Dentist
If you are someone who fears visiting the dentist, even when your oral problem seems unbearable, don’t worry – you’re not alone.
Millions of Americans avoid regular dental visits due to the sheer fact that they are afraid to go. Not only is PTSD a serious problem that must be addressed, but the neglect of oral health is too. People who continuously neglect their oral health can run into problems such as cavities, gum disease, loss of teeth, infections, heart disease, high blood pressure, and even death.
Yes, as scary as it might sound, neglecting your oral care can be deadly, and it is far more than a cosmetic concern, as many people believe.
Why Do People Have A Fear Of The Dentist?
There are numerous reasons why people avoid the dentist. Some of the most common include:
- General Anxiety: Having general anxiety or panic attacks often can lead people to neglect many different parts of their overall health.
- Fear of Pain: Some people believe that there is a deep-rooted connection between pain and discomfort, particularly in the dentist’s chair.
- PTSD: One of the worst cases is PTSD, where a person has been in an overly stressful or disastrous situation, such as war, assault, etc. The sights and sounds of a dentist’s office can set off serious flashbacks.
- Horrible Past Experience: Some people have had bad experiences at other dental offices, many of which were so painful that they became traumatized.
Out With The Old, In With The New
For a good majority of adults, old-fashioned dentistry was the root of many dental fears. These were the days before anesthesia and fast drilling techniques. Back in the day, the entire dental process was agonizingly slow. For most patients, the process was a painful one, to put it mildly.
Luckily, dentistry has undergone significant changes in the past few decades, and with the introduction of new cutting-edge tools and dental techniques, we have found ways to make even the most serious procedures feel quick and painless.
For patients with PTSD in St. Louis, call The Dental Anesthesia Center for help.
Overcoming Your Fear Of The Dentist
If you are extremely fearful about visiting the dentist, here are a few suggestions to keep in mind:
- Find a Good Dentist
- Of course, the top suggestion is to make sure that you are seeing a dentist with whom you feel comfortable. Schedule an appointment to speak with them. If you find someone who feels warm, caring, and is well-versed in treating patients with PTSD, you’re off to a good start.
- Find a Dentist Who Uses Sedation
- Contrary to what many people believe, not all dentists use sedation. Be sure to discuss with your dentist the types of sedation they use in their facility. Being sedated in some form or another during your treatment can help to calm your stress levels and get you into a place free from feeling pain during your procedure.
- Have An Understanding Of Your Procedure Beforehand
- Consult with your dentist to learn more about the procedure that will be performed on you. Whether you are undergoing a regular cleanup or a more extensive treatment, knowing exactly what to expect can be helpful. Essentially, the more you know about what is going to happen, the more in control you will feel.
Scheduling Your First Appointment
We hope this article has helped you to feel more in control of your fears or PTSD associated with going to the dentist. For PTSD dentistry in St. Louis, please make sure to contact us and schedule an appointment so that we can discuss your individual needs and concerns.
Our team of dentists is here to make you feel comfortable and cared for throughout the entire process, and that is our guarantee. We look forward to meeting you!