I have been scared of the dentist most of my life. Because of that I haven’t gone in years. The only thing that got me there was because I had a tooth hurting so much that I thought there was no way that I could be in more pain than I already was, so I went. He told me the tooth was way too far gone and there was no way to save it. Now I have to get some stupid removable denture. I’m too you for a fake tooth. He also said I have a few teeth that need a lot of work. I don’t want to end up with a mouth full of dentures. Is there any way to get past the morbid fear I have?
Cammie
Dear Cammie,
I’m sorry about your painful tooth! Don’t beat yourself up too much. You are definitely not alone in having dental anxiety. A large number of people do. Most of the time it is caused by trauma at the dentist when they’re young. Too often a child’s first experience at the dentist is with a dental emergency. Those are rarely pleasant experiences, as you’ve seen as an adult.
I have two pieces of good news for you. First, there is a way for you to have anxiety free and pain free dental appointments. If I were in your position, I would see a dentist who offers dental sedation. They can give you a medication that would actually allow you to sleep through your dental appointments. People who have been afraid of the dentist for years have found that dental sedation changed their life forever.
A second thing I’d love to tell you about is dental implants. These are a much better tooth replacement option than removable dentures. Because they are anchored to your jaw bone, they are completely secure and the closest thing to having healthy, natural teeth.
This blog is brought to you by Lexington, KY Dentist Dr. James E. Williams.