Odontophobia, or fear of the dentist, is one of the most common fears. The others are public speaking and death. Overcoming fear of the dentist and dental procedures, however, is crucial for your health. Finding the right dental office can help curb fears, and keep your teeth and overall health in check. How?
Dental Symptoms May Be an Indication of an Even Larger Problem
Did you know adults with gum disease are twice as likely to have heart problems, too? With over half, or slightly more than 50%, of American adults suffering from gum disease, that is alarming news. Adults should visit the dentist at the first sign of dark, red, or swollen gums. Dark gums may be harmless, genetic, and a result of hyperpigmentation, or they may be the first indication of Gingivitis, and other serious health conditions. Your dentist can sort that out for you, but the “dentist” part alone may pose a problem.
Need a Dentist?
A shocking number of people have not been to the dentist in months, years even. Asking family and friends for dentist reviews is the first step. Family and friends can relay personal experiences, and answer questions that may not come up in online dentist reviews. After all, when average internet users review dentists, they are not going to bring up concerns like, “Did it hurt?”
Know that the future of your smile, and overall health, depends on the dentist. Help beat fears with reliable and honest suggestions from family and friends.