It’s a New Year, a new decade, and a time for resolutions and intentions. There are the common ones that we all make, such as:

• Less social media
• More exercise
• Cut back on carbohydrates
• Organize the junk drawer
• Stick to a budget

There’s no judgment if you don’t stick to them all. It’s human nature.

But while you do have the motivation, the inkling of will, the ability to commit to the thing you may loathe the most – make your 2020 dental appointments. Your teeth, should you take care of them, are going to be around and healthy for a very long time.

Why You Have Dental Fears

But, what if you are someone who suffers from dentophobia? Nearly seventy-five percent of adults in the United States experience some amount of dental fears with regard to visiting the dentist. Of that percentage, close to five to ten percent of those people have a strong enough fear to be considered sufferers of dental phobia.

There are different fears associated with going to the dentist (so you’re not alone!):

1. The dentist – If you have had a negative personal experience with a particular dentist, you may be more prone to this phobia.
2. Pain – Many people are extremely sensitive to mouth pain and fear that the pain may be excruciating.
3. Numbness or Gagging – Some people, particularly those who have experienced choking or difficulty breathing, are afraid of having their mouths numbed. You might worry that you will be unable to breathe or swallow.
4. Sounds and Smells – Many people, particularly those who have had previous bad experiences with dentists, are afraid of the sounds and smells of a dentist’s office, particularly the sound of the drill.
5. Needles – If you have a needle phobia, you might be extremely fearful of the injections that dentists use to numb the mouth.

How to Overcome Dental Anxiety

There is a way we can help you achieve a more pleasant and productive dental experience. Asheville Dental is the first dentistry practice in western North Carolina to offer I.V. sedation. I.V. sedation is endorsed by the American Dental Association and is an effective way to make many patients comfortable during their dental visit. Our office provides I.V. sedation using a board-certified anesthesiologist (M.D.) to administer and monitor the entire sedation process. Procedures that can be performed using I.V. sedation:

• Fillings
• Crowns
• Bridges
• Root canals
• Tooth Extractions
• Cosmetic procedures
• Periodontal treatments

Alleviating Your Dental Fears and Anxieties

If you’re a dentophobe, we understand. Contact us with questions. We’re here to give you the healthiest smile possible while minimizing the stresses and fears surrounding dental procedures.