Page 5 - Magazine_Beautiful-Smile

Putting

in End to

Dental

By Dion Kramer

What is dental phobia?
fear or anxiety associated with visiting a dentist is often
referred to as dental phobia. Dental phobia is often the
r
A eason people avoid regular check-ups with a dentist. This
naturally has consequences to your oral health and general well-
being.

Neglecting your oral health can have unfavorable effects such as
chronically infected gums which can compromise your ability to
chew and digest. You may also develop consistent bad breath
and an unattractive smile. All these things are likely to create
social and psychological barriers in your relationships. Poor oral
health can have resounding effects on your general health. So
your dental phobia must be addressed.

Are you affected by dental phobia?

The questions below will give you some idea as to whether you
suffer from dental phobia:
• Do you recall a previous visit to the dentist that was unpleasant?
• Are you concerned that you will be embarrassed by remarks the
dentist may make about the state of your oral health?
• Do you feel anxious while in the waiting area of the dental practice?

• Do you have feelings of uneasiness or tension while in the dental
chair?

• Does the sight of dental instruments invoke unpleasant feelings?
• Do you feel ill or anxiety at the thought of an injection?
• Do objects placed in your mouth during the dental visit make you
panic and feel like you can’t breathe correctly?
• Do you feel that your dentist is unsympathetic only with you?

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