I’ve just been offered my dream job: taking photographs in India on a six-month assignment. The problem is in order for me to be able to go, I must undergo a thorough physical, which includes a dental exam. Why is this a problem? I am extremely afraid of the dentist! So afraid that I’ve been warring with myself , actually considering just refusing the job so I can avoid the dentist. Yes, it’s that bad. As a last resort I’ve come here seeking some advice. Do you have any?
Thanks,
Jack, New Orleans, LA
Jack,
I DO have answers! Dental fear is not uncommon. It’s so not uncommon that many dentists actually design their practices around “catering to cowards.”
I’m not calling you a coward. “Catering to cowards” is a widely-used term for people who experience high levels of anxiety when seeking dental treatment. It essentially means you’re a patient who requires some extra help during a dental procedure. And since many people fall into that category, you can find a lot of information on dental fear and how to get help for it.
You can find help by searching terms such as, “fear of dentist,” “cater to cowards,” or “sedation dentistry” on the internet. The list of dentists you see are the ones who are trained to take the time to understand your fears, concerns, and any possible triggers you might have that could cause you to have a negative experience during your dental visit. These dentists provide calming atmospheres, and if you need it, can offer you pills that will help you relax or even sleep through the entire process. People who end up going the sedation dentistry route often find that they can have their dental work completed in fewer visits.
Please don’t pass on your dream job. You have so many options available to you, so use them.
Hope this helps.
This blog is sponsored by Buffalo dentist Warren M. Krutchick, DDS.
