Dental anxiety is a common problem among many Americans. It is estimated that between 50% to 80% of Americans experience dental anxiety. This anxiety can be so severe that it prevents some people from seeking necessary dental care.
There are several reasons why someone may experience dental anxiety. Some people may have had a bad experience in the past, while others may be afraid of the pain or discomfort associated with dental procedures.
Because of the rising number of dental anxiety people, some dental procedures have been widely exaggerated. It has led to many people who have never even been to the dentist may be afraid of what they will experience. It’s time to set the record straight and debunk some of the most common myths about dental procedures.
Dental procedures are always painful
This is one of the most common misconceptions about dental procedures. While it is true that some procedures can be uncomfortable, most are not painful. Your dentist will use numbing agents to ensure that you don’t feel any pain during the procedure.
There are also advancements in dental care that can remove any pain from the procedure altogether. For example, dental lasers can remove tooth decay without touching the tooth. Because of dental lasers, there is no need for any drilling or injections.
Another example is sedation dentistry. This type of dentistry uses medication to help you relax during the procedure. It is often used for people who experience extreme dental anxiety. With sedation dentistry, you will not feel any pain during the process.
You will bleed a lot during dental procedures
Another common myth about dental procedures is that you will bleed a lot. This is not true. While some procedures may require a drill, most do not. Most procedures are reasonably quick and easy and will not cause any bleeding.
The only time you may bleed during a dental procedure is if you have an infection. If you have an infection, your dentist will clean out the area and then apply medication to help heal the infection.
Dental procedures require a lot of time
This is another myth that is not true. Most dental procedures can be done in a single visit to the dentist. Many procedures can be done in less than an hour.
Dental implants, a relatively common dental procedure, can even be done in one day due to improved dental technology. Same-day dental implants are now standard in many dental offices.
Another standard dental procedure, teeth whitening, can also be done in a single visit to the dentist. Teeth whitening is often done in less than an hour and can make a huge difference in your smile.
Dental procedures are always expensive
This is another myth about dental procedures that isn’t true. There are several affordable dental procedures you can do to improve your smile.
Teeth whitening is a simple dental procedure you can do in just a single visit to the dentist. On average, a teeth whitening session can cost less than $100.
Dental veneers are another affordable option for improving your smile. Dental veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that are placed over the front of your teeth. They are often used to correct several dental issues, such as chips, cracks, and stains. Dental veneers can usually be done for less than $1000.
If you don’t have the money to pay for these procedures right now, you can always talk to your dentist about financing options. Many dentists offer payment plans that can make dental procedures more affordable.
Dental procedures are dangerous
Lastly, there is this ongoing myth that dental procedures are dangerous and can even be lethal. This myth is not true. Dental procedures are very safe. They are often much safer than many other medical procedures.
A dental procedure can be dangerous if you have an underlying medical condition that makes you more susceptible to complications. For example, people with heart conditions or diabetes are at a higher risk for complications from dental procedures.
If you have any concerns about the safety of a dental procedure, be sure to talk to your dentist. They will be able to answer any questions you may have and help put your mind at ease.
These are just a few of the most common myths about dental procedures. But, as you can see, they are all unfounded and simply not true. If you know someone with dental anxiety, share this article with them. It’s time to debunk these myths and help people see that dental procedures are nothing to be afraid of.
