Dental Fear and Dental Phobia

Dental Fear: Learn to Have Dental Treatment in a Manner that Feels Calm and Safe

There have been many studies, research projects and numerous publications written about the debilitating effects of dental fear, that validate the fact this syndrome poses a very significant problem and challenge to sufferers.  At Westcoast International Dental Clinics in Vietnam, we understand this phenomenon and are sensitive to the reality of the situation.  We know how troubling and deep dental fear can be, and why so many people are terrified and in some cases paralyzed by their dental phobia.

Do you need dental work such as crowns, veneers, dental implants, extractions or other specialized treatment, but are terrified of visiting a dentist, because you experience fear of dentists or suffer from other related dental phobias?  Well we have a solution for you and will help you overcome your dental fear!

At Westcoast we are attuned to our patients who experience dental fears. Like the fear of dentists, dental treatments, or any other dental phobia that can cause reoccurring PTSD types of distress and trauma. Thus essentially keeping you polarized from receiving regular dental care and other specific treatments.

You are not suffering alone, there are many people suffering with various dental fears and traumas
Dental research studies estimate that between 5% and 8% of patients avoid dentists and dental treatments out of fear, often referred to as dental phobia. There are actually many publications that address this interesting phenomenon and serious, emotionally debilitating condition.

Additional information reveals that an even higher percentage of people who suffer from the fear of dentist, perhaps 20%, experience enough anxiety that it keeps them from seeking dental treatment until it’s absolutely necessary.

Some dental clinics like Westcoast are aware of the significant number of patients that are suffering with some sort of dentistry related trauma. Statistics indicate that nearly two thirds of people suffering with dental fears relate it, to a bad experience in the dentist's office.

The remaining one third, experience dental fear based on issues that cause unwanted and unpleasant side effects, similar to the anxiety triggered by substance abuse, domestic violence and sexual abuse.  We realize the depth of this kind of fear can be quite intense and know how to support you through it!

Contrary to popular misconception, dental fear originates from the loss of control patients feel when climbing in to the dentist's chair, not the fear of pain.

At Westcoast we’re very careful regarding our patients comfort and pain thresholds and do our utmost best to make sure all of our patients are feeling ready and relaxed about their treatments before we proceed.   We would never move forward with a procedure at the risk of a patient’s comfort or sensitivities.

It would be helpful if patients with dental fears were informed and educated to be more assertive about their needs. At Westcoast are familiar with the predispositions of fearful patients. Our caring staff will always offer a variety of methods to reduce pain and alleviate patient fear. We offer standard forms of local anesthesia like gentle injection techniques. We don’t recommend or use noxious oxide as part of our normal pain mitigation protocols. We do enable patients to remain at the center of control during their treatment process, to insure ease and comfort.

Treating the fear of dentists and dental fears
Our Dental Team of specialists at Westcoast clinics in Vietnam have invested a significant amount of thoughtful, focused energy, and substantial resources, to create a non-threatening atmosphere at each of our office locations. With the intention of relaxing and reducing the anxiety and stress many patients with dental fears associate with a typical dental clinic.

You won’t find any blaring posters depicting the gruesome effects of gum disease or other reminders relating to the stark reminders of old style dental clinics.  What you’ll find is a spacious, non-threatening environment featuring a lovely appointed waiting room, reminiscent of a luxurious hotel lobby with the sound of soothing music in the background.  Our user friendly, modern and cheerful treatment room’s, help subdue the savage beast that lurks in the psyche of patients suffering with dental fear.

In essence even people with the worst aversion to dentist and dental offices will find a welcome respite to their anxiety at one of our inviting clinics. The unique soothing atmosphere at each location will inspire comfort and relaxation. You can rest assured that you’ll be receiving the finest standards in high tech care and clinically advanced support for your dental fears at Westcoast.

We use effective methods to reduce dental fear at Westcoast

• We gently explain what the patient will soon feel and about how long the procedure will take.
• We frequently ask the patient for permission to continue their procedure.
• We give our patient the opportunity to stop the procedure at any time if he/she is feeling uncomfortable.
• We’ll take breaks as requested or if needed to support our patients comfort.
• We offer standard forms of local anesthesia like gentle injection techniques
• We make sure that you are at the center of control throughout your treatment to insure maximum comfort and ease.

A few suggestion on how you can take responsibility for yourself to reduce your dental fears

• Choose a qualified and well known dentist that supports, understands, respects and cares about your condition.
• Choose a clinic that practices gentle dentistry and supports your comfort by providing an environment that is in alignment with your personal needs. Visit several clinics to compare which one works best for you.
• Go to your appointment with someone you trust, who has no fear of dentists. They can support you, by sitting with you during your treatment.
• Create a distraction while in the dentist's chair, for example listen to your own music on headphones.
• Try relaxation techniques, like controlled deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation, which involves tensing and relaxing different muscle groups.
• Review with your dentist which sedatives are available or appropriate for you.
• If you can't bring yourself to go to a dentist under any circumstances, you might want to try seeing a psychologist.

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