People that suffer from ‘dental phobia’(Dentophobia) may feel better knowing that this is a fairly common treatable condition. Know that the medical community takes this disorder seriously.

Phobias like Pteromerhanophobia: (the fear of flying) and Acrophobibia (the fear of heights) can be problematic, but a person can live a perfectly healthy life without getting on a 747 or riding an elevator to the top of the Chrysler Building.

A person who suffers from dental phobia or dental anxiety is at risk of falling into a vicious cycle of declining oral health. 

Fear causes the person to forego dental checkups for years. When a minor dental issue (like a small cavity) progresses until it reaches a nerve and creates pain, the patient is forced to visit the dentist.

At this point, the needed remedy is an extensive procedure (possibly an extraction followed by a dental implant). The procedure reinforces the dental phobia and, once again, the patient stays away from the dentist’s office. That’s how some men and women end up losing teeth at a relatively young age.

Experts believe that the scope of dental phobia may be as high as one in four individuals. Are you one of them?

At Jeff Gray DDS – Sedation & Cosmetic Dentistry, we want to help apprehensive patients successfully overcome or at least manage their anxiety so they can tolerate twice-yearly checkups and cleanings. Preventive dentistry is the only method to protect teeth and gums.

If you haven’t had a dental examination in a while, please schedule a consultation. You can meet with Dr, Gray about the many options available including behavioral therapy, cognitive therapy, and conscious sedation (sleep dentistry).

If you are afraid of going to the dentist, there is hope. At Jeff Gray DDS – Sedation & Cosmetic Dentistry, we have successfully treated many patients just like you. Set up a consultation today.

Contact Jeff Gray DDS – Sedation & Cosmetic Dentistry: 619-337-7700