Saturday, April 26, 2008

Your fear of dentists!

Many people fear going to the dentist, and this is an absolutely real syndrome with many adults let alone kids!

If we examine our past experiences, we remember on those painful visits we had to the dental clinic as a child and that phobia remains alive for a long time. As we can't see the treatment being done inside our mouth it makes the fear even more "justified".

HOW CAN WE COMBAT FEAR OF DENTAL TREATMENT?

Firstly, remember that time has changed. We are now in the 21st century with numerous progress in the dental field. Secondly, we have different equipments, treatment methods and also a wide choice of dentists compared to the 1950s when a "Doktor Gigi" down the street may be the only choice.

WHAT IS DIFFERENT TODAY?
  • Equipment today are more sofisticated. For example, even before you start treatment you can view your intra oral image shown on a large tv screen. This gives you a good look and mentally prepare yourself to what is recommended.
  • Time taken to do a filling has been shortened due to more efficient cutting tools that don;t really "cut" your teeth instead just grind away the decay.
  • Local anasthesia is always available if you need to eliminate the little discomfort that you feel.

WHAT CAN YOU DO ADDRESS YOUR FEAR?

  1. Take time to see at least a few dentists in your area and select one whom you find most comoftable to talk to and to trust your teeth with!
  2. Use the FREE Dental Checkup months (usually every April) to visit several dentists so that you can evaluate your choices.
  3. When treatment is necessary allocate time to visit a dentist and DO NOT rush between your appointments.
  4. Ask for inofrmation on potential pain and discomfort.
  5. Understand the available options before making your chouce of treatment.

WHAT TEACH YOUR KIDS?

Bring kids for check ups at an early age before they develop serious decay that requires treatment. Do not wait until there is a serious need. Simple check ups give kids an understanding of oral hygiene.

Early visits also gives them a better perspective during the young age thus preventing unecessary fear when they grow old.

No comments: