If you happen to fear the dentist, you’re not alone. Surprisingly, as many as 36% of US citizens share this fear of dental treatment. However, your phobia may be exacerbated by the portrayal of dentistry in films and TV, which tends to present it in a negative light. In reality, dentists are not scary, and they strive to make their treatments as comfortable as possible. To demonstrate this, continue reading to learn about how the media contributes to high levels of dental fear.
Media’s Negative Dentistry Portrayals
Dental procedures can cause discomfort, and unfortunately, modern media often exaggerates dentists as either evil or bumbling characters. This portrayal contributes to people’s dental fears, leading to a reluctance to seek dental care.
Take, for instance, Orin Schrivello in the 1986 musical “Little Shop of Horrors,” depicted as a sadistic dentist who takes pleasure in inflicting pain on his patients. Such portrayals might lead viewers to believe that all dentists share similar traits.
Similarly, in the film “Finding Nemo,” Dr. Sherman ignores his niece’s destructive tendencies and accidentally hurts a patient by pulling a tooth too soon. This kind of representation might create the impression that all dental professionals are prone to making serious mistakes. It is important to recognize that these are fictional characters and not reflective of real-life dental professionals who prioritize patient comfort and care.
Why Dentists Aren’t Scary
Indeed, mild aches can be an inevitable part of certain dental procedures. However, it is essential to recognize that trained dentists take every measure to minimize your pain and discomfort. Their primary goal is to ensure you don’t experience distress during treatment.
Typically, they administer numbing agents before performing any invasive work, prioritizing your comfort. Some dental practices also use soft tissue lasers, which offer painless treatment for the gums. Moreover, a dentist’s extensive education plays a crucial role in reducing complications. The four-year program they complete for a DDS or DMD degree instills in them a sense of carefulness and precision.
Additionally, they commit to yearly continuing education, further sharpening their skills and staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in dental care. This dedication to ongoing learning underscores their commitment to providing you with the best possible care and ensuring your dental experience is as painless as possible.
How Dentists Can Make You Comfortable
If you struggle with dental anxiety, rest assured that numerous dentists offer options to make your care comfortable. It’s all about finding the right one for you! A fantastic dentist might suggest sedation dentistry for your procedure. With the help of sedatives, your fear will be alleviated, and the treatment will become smooth and easy.
From there, you can receive the necessary care to achieve excellent oral health and a beautiful smile! Don’t let dental anxiety hold you back; a skilled dentist can help you overcome it and enjoy stress-free dental visits!
About the Practice
At Brown & Nawrocki Restorative & Cosmetic Dentistry, our priority is to provide our patients with top-level dental care. We offer a comprehensive range of services, including preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, as well as emergency smile procedures. Additionally, you can trust us to address your dental sedation needs with expertise and compassion. For more information on solutions related to dental fear or to schedule a visit, please call our office at (386) 677-1046 or visit our website.