Why Do So Many People Dislike the Dentist?

One of the main reasons I became a dentist was the lifechanging care I received from my childhood dentist. I want to share that positive experience with my patients, but I fully understand that for some, visiting the dentist can feel uncomfortable and even scary. I love changing my patient’s perspectives from what can be a vulnerable experience, to something that is actually enjoyable.

If you dread your next visit to the dentist, you’re not alone. As important as regular dental visits are for oral health, a report by the Journal of Dental Hygiene found that between 50% and 80% of American adults have mild to severe dental phobia. Let’s take a closer look at why so many people stay away and how to avoid these worries.

Fear of Pain

Arguably the most common dental fear is that it will hurt. For many, fear of pain stems from a bad dental experience early in life. The good news is that modern dental practices have improved greatly and continue to do so. If you had a bad experience, chances are your dentist at that time used very different methods than what today’s dentists employ.

Dental anesthetics are highly effective. In fact, most dentists can fill cavities without you feeling a thing. Choose a dentist who understands common fears and will go the extra mile to make sure you’re comfortable. 

Anxiety About What the Dentist Might Find

If you’ve been avoiding going to the dentist because you’re afraid you might or know you have cavities, that is both common and completely understandable.

If you’re concerned that your oral health isn’t as good as you’d like it to be, you probably don’t want anyone to know about it. It is tempting to ignore dental problems for as long as possible, but the longer you wait, the more serious the issue is likely to become.  But there’s absolutely no shame in needing dental care. It’s important to remember that we dentists, are on your side. We want to help, and a good dentist will never make you feel judged about your oral health.

The Feeling of Not Being in Control

It’s not always fun to be stuck in a chair, wondering what’s really going on, while someone is poking around inside your mouth. It can be invasive, and you might feel a lack of control that can lead to anxiety.

The best antidote is going to a kind, considerate dentist that understands how stressful an experience it can be. I always let my patients know what I’m about to do and walk them through the procedure as we go, so you won’t feel like the situation is totally out of your control.

Not Having the Time

We live busy lives, so it’s understandable if you feel like you just don’t have the time to visit the dentist. Unfortunately, your teeth don’t care how busy you are! The best way to prevent cavities and tooth decay, which can lead to many more dental visits in the future, is to go to your routine teeth cleanings. Dental visits are surprisingly quick! You can be in and out in 30 minutes. Even getting a cavity filled seldom takes more than an hour. Anyone can spare that much time for the benefit of their oral health.

Disliking the Environment

Some people shy away from going to the dentist because they just don’t like the vibe! Some dentists’ offices can feel cold and sterile, and the situation isn’t helped by fluorescent lighting, elevator music, and that antiseptic “dentist office smell.”

It’s true that dentists’ offices aren’t renowned for their ambiance. But not all dentists’ offices are the same. Many dentists go the extra mile to make their spaces feel warm and inviting, with welcoming decor and comfortable waiting areas.

So if you are afraid, anxious, don’t think you have time, or just don’t enjoy the atmosphere, talk to your local friends and family about who they see for their dental healthcare. There are so many fantastic dental professionals in our area that strive to make you feel safe and at ease, even when performing a dental procedure.