According to the United States National Institutes of Health (NIH), about 36 percent of people have dental anxiety or a dental phobia. Moreover, 12 percent have an extreme dental fear. At Trabuco Hills Dentistry, both Dr. Ami Kagalwala and Dr. Jay Friedman understand why people feel a bit apprehensive at the dentist. However, both practitioners strive to make general dentistry in Mission Viejo, CA, more comfortable.
What Exactly Classifies as Dental Phobia?
Some people just don't enjoy going to the dentist. This isn't anxiety or a phobia. People who truly suffer from dental anxiety or phobia might start sweating profusely before having to go to the dentist and while there. They may have palpitations or develop a rapid heartbeat. In some cases, the fear or anxiety will lead to fainting. Elevated blood pressure is possible, while some people experience an upset stomach. The person may have visible signs of being stressed or nervous, such as crying.
How a Dentist Can Help
If you get stressed even if you're visiting the dentist for a general dentistry exam, you should let your practitioner know in advance. By doing so, the dentist in Mission Viejo, CA, can help work you through the anxiety or phobia by discussing the procedures. A dentist may help you address the source of the fear, which can help you overcome it.
In some cases, the practitioner might recommend you receive some type of sedation before your appointment. If this is the case, your dental provider will prescribe medication. You take it either before or at the start of your appointment. The medicine will make you sleep and remain calm, so you can receive the care you need without the stress. In the most severe cases, a patient can be given a general anesthetic, so the patient is unconscious during the entire process. This is an option more commonly given for dental procedures rather than general dentistry.
When you visit Dr. Kagalwala or Dr. Friedman at Trabuco Hills in Mission Viejo, CA, either will work with you to help make your experience as pleasant as possible. It's vital, though, to work with your practitioner to find a solution suited for you and your level of fear or anxiety. Book an appointment today by calling 949-859-1400.