What is the fear of the dentist?
Odontophobia or fear of the dentist is a fairly widespread phobia among patients. Almost 15% of the population suffering from it. Normally, this predisposition to have a bad time in a dental clinic is due to a previous bad experience, or lack of information on the part of the patients themselves.
The simple fact of thinking that they have to go to a dental clinic already causes them anxiety. The sounds that are usually associated with clinics (each time softer), as well as in some cases the smells of the materials used, intensify memories and/or negative associations.
Today, dentistry has evolved in many aspects and we have different tools and technologies that make the visit to a dental clinic more relaxed and pleasant. We take care of the spaces, which invite relaxation. We avoid aggressive colors, slow down the pace of work to provide peace to the patient, and even incorporate aromatherapy tools to escape from the clinic itself.
How can we reduce the fear of dental treatments?
At the Caballero de Rodas Dental Clinic we have many resources to try to alleviate the effects of the fear of the dentist. We are aware of the need for the whole team to convey confidence and security to patients, we seek to give the necessary explanations that make them regain confidence and bring peace of mind. We know the importance of communicating step by step the evolution of the treatments and we make an effort not to take for granted that patients are aware of what we do.
We also have the “Kit Calm” system, a device that we give to the patient and that helps in the communication with the doctor. It is widely used in long treatments and provides the patient with security and relaxation. This device emits an acoustic and luminous signal that makes it possible to communicate with the doctor. Virtual reality glasses are available for patients, which help them to escape and entertain themselves during treatments.
We offer the possibility of treating the patient under intravenous conscious sedation, always under the supervision of an anesthesiologist. With this option, we manage to perform the treatments under sedation, which considerably reduces the nervous tension and anxiety suffered by the patient.
This type of treatment has been used in the Caballero de Rodas Clinic for more than 10 years in those treatments that are somehow more surgical and aggressive, and that provide an incredible result to patients. Thanks to this technique, we are able to perform more complex and lasting treatments in less time, avoiding patients to feel pain or anxiety.
Fear of the dentist in children
In children, fear of the dentist is in many cases understandable. It is recommended to introduce them to the dental world from an early age with games and periodic visits to the clinic, explaining in detail and teaching them what each instrument does, so that when they require treatment, the lack of knowledge does not cause them to reject it.
Conclusion
Going to the dentist does not have to be an unpleasant experience if you have a team with the necessary human, technological and medical resources.
At the Caballero de Rodas Dental Clinic we use all our resources and extensive experience with each patient to demonstrate that there is nothing to fear when visiting our dentists.
