You, Your Kids, and Dental Phobia - Is There a Connection?
April is National Anxiety Month, and for many, nothing causes more anxiety than a dental visit. Few people look forward to seeing a dentist, but for some, dental fear is a serious problem that can threaten their oral health. Delta Dental recently conducted a survey of parents and kids that revealed an interesting correlation between the number of parents who suffer from a fear of seeing the dentist and the number of kids aged 12 and under who share the same anxiety; it was almost identical. The conclusion of many experts is that parents may be inadvertently passing their dental fear down to their children.
Passing Dental Fear Down Through the Generations
Impressionable young minds can soak up fear and negativity like a sponge. Dental phobia in children can easily develop if parents show obvious signs of dental fear when it’s time for their own treatment. To avoid passing their dental phobia along to the next generation, parents should take steps to manage their own dental fear, and try to keep a positive tone when discussing dentist visits with children. Staying calm and relaxed at their own dental appointments can help parents demonstrate that dentists are friends, and dental care can be fun. To put children at ease, a dental visit should be treated the same as any other wellness check-up.
Adult Fear of Dentist: How to Cope
Dental professionals employ a number of techniques to help combat patients’ dental fear. Televisions or music in treatment rooms can provide distraction. Many dentists will also allow patients to bring in their own electronic devices to use during treatment. Wearing headphones can help soothe a fear of dentist drills. Patients who suffer from dental phobia should talk to their dentist about their concerns. In many cases, severe dental fear in adults can be effectively managed with conscious sedation methods, behavioral therapy, and relaxation techniques.
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Dental One Associates offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in Maryland. With 12 affiliated practices throughout Maryland, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At Dental One Associates of Maryland, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at Dental One Associates of Maryland.
