If you have dental anxiety, you are likely to first put off your regular preventive dental checkups. After that, you are likely to find that you have concerning signs and symptoms as time marches on. Adults who suffer from dental anxiety reach a place where they become quite disenchanted with the look of their smile – especially if red puffy gums or loose and lost permanent teeth ensue from neglect. The more work that needs to be done, the more anxious certain patients are likely to become.
Research on Dental Anxiety
Sahlgrenska Academy was the site of a student written doctoral thesis which focused on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as a means for helping patients with severe dental anxiety. More than 3,500 people were studied, all of whom had avoided dental care as a result of their nerves. The research demonstrated that adults with severe dental anxiety can become clinically depressed over the appearance of their smile.
Reparations for Anxious Smiles
Says Viktor Carlsson at Sahlgrenska Academy, “People with severe dental anxiety are often trapped in a vicious cycle that begins with avoidance of dental care. The next stage is poorer oral health, often followed by a sense of shame and withdrawal from social intercourse.” One surprising facet of the research included the fact that ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) was greater among subjects with severe dental anxiety. Making connections between disorders such as these can help dentists and psychologists zero in on treatment plans to help quell the pervasive nerves of truly anxious patients who are avoiding needed dental work. While it may be past the point of no return for one’s original smile, it’s never too late to get anxiety under control so that cosmetic dental reparations can be made, such as crowns, dental bonding, and porcelain veneers.
Amenities at Local Dental Offices
Dentists such as Dr. Brent Engelberg believe in providing amenities which enahance the relaxation of patients who come in for any number of dental services. These include: flavored chapsticks, lavender scented towels, aromatherapy with calming essential oils, the wand/STA computerized anesthetic system, sedative medications, and an incredible new device which makes anesthetic administration virtually painless, called the dental vibe. For more information, simply call our office to inquire.
ABOUT YOUR SCHAUMBURG DENTIST:
Dr. Brent Engelberg and his highly-skilled team proudly serve patients and their families from Arlington Heights, IL, and all surrounding communities, including; Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Skokie, Evanston, Palatine, Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Rolling Meadows, and the Northern and Northwest Chicago Suburbs. To learn more, schedule a consultation online, or call our office today at 847-259-8030.
Source: Science Daily
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