Dental Phobia Specialist

Emergency Dentist NYC Our Services Dental Phobia

Emergency Dentist NYC

Emergency, Cosmetic, and General Dentistry located in Union Square, New York City, NY

You're not alone if going to the dentist makes you anxious. But if your fear is so intense that you skip the dentist altogether, you may have dental phobia. The dental specialists at Emergency Dentist NYC understand the seriousness of dental phobia and develop individualized treatment plans, which may include intravenous (IV) sedation, to ensure you get the dental care you need without the fear or anxiety. To schedule a consultation to discuss your dental phobia, contact the Union Square, Manhattan, office in New York City by phone or online today.

Dental Phobia Q & A

What is dental phobia?

Dental phobia is a serious condition characterized by an irrational fear of the dentist that leads to complete avoidance of dental care. With dental phobia, your fears may leave you feeling panic-stricken and terrified.

In addition to dental phobia, many people also experience dental anxiety, or fear and stress about upcoming dental visits. Dental anxiety may not be as serious as dental phobia, but your fears may cause you to delay or avoid dental visits. 

What causes dental phobia?

Dental phobia and dental anxiety may develop from many causes. Some of the most common include:

  • Previous traumatic dental experience
  • Fear of needles
  • Fear of pain
  • History of depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

You may also fear going to the dentist because you view your mouth as your personal space and feel uncomfortable with the close proximity of the dentist or dental hygienist. Or, your fears may be caused by loss of control because you can’t see what’s going on or voice your concerns.

What are dental phobia symptoms?

You may have dental phobia if you avoid going to the dentist at all costs, only agreeing to any kind of dental care when you're in extreme pain. Other symptoms of dental phobia include:

  • Feeling physically ill or crying when thinking about the dentist
  • Difficulty sleeping the night before your dental appointment
  • Sweating and heart palpitations when at the dental office
  • Decrease in blood pressure

Your feelings may be so intense that you may not be able to walk through the office door and may even turn around and go home. 

How is dental phobia treated?

The dental experts at Emergency Dentist NYC specialize in the management of dental phobia and dental anxiety and develop individualized dental plans based on your specific needs. Before starting any dental exam or treatment, your dentist talks to you about your fears to better understand your needs. 

Your dental phobia treatment plan may include ongoing education before, during, and after your dental care. The team also offers intravenous (IV) sedation to help you feel relaxed and comfortable during your procedures. IV sedation at Emergency Dentist NYC is administered by an IV-certified dentist.

For help managing your dental phobia so you can get the gentle dental care you need, call Emergency Dentist NYC or book an appointment online today.

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