Understanding The Effects Of Odontophobia On Oral Health
Posted on 11/15/2023 by Weo Admin
Odontophobia is a reality for many people and refers to the extreme fear of dentists. Dental phobia knows no boundaries and could affect people from all spectrums; old or young, rich or poor. There are many triggers of odontophobia. The most common triggers are fear of pain, past traumatic dental experiences, the fear of losing control during treatment, and the fear of injections.
Treatment delay leading to progression
Due to anxiety, most people either postpone dental treatment or avoid seeking medical intervention altogether. Over time, the delay may facilitate the progression of dental ailments such as gum disease, cavities, and jaw misalignment. Advanced dental conditions automatically translate to more expensive and intensive forms of treatment. Additionally, dental ailment progression may limit the treatment options available for you. For instance, progressed tooth decay may necessitate tooth extraction that could have adverse effects on adjacent teeth.
Deteriorated oral hygiene and health
What happens when you fail to go to the doctor for routine cleaning and dental checkup? You risk the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, gums, and tongue. As the plaque keeps amassing, so is the risk of gum inflammation, cavities, and bacterial infection. Regular checkups not only help you avert the onset of cavities but also help in the early diagnosis of diseases such as oral cancer.
Self-medication
As a result of avoiding dental visits, most people opt to self-medicate. Self-medicating with over-the-counter painkillers and antibiotics could ease the pain in the short term. However, in the long run, all you are doing is covering up the problem which could blow up in your face. Additionally, in the case of antibiotics, you may not be able to access the right antibiotic for the respective bacterial infection. As a result, you risk developing resistance to antibiotics. When your body becomes resistant to antibiotics infections no longer respond to prescribed medication. This kind of aversion is risky not just to your oral health but your overall well-being. You will be glad to know that technological advancement has made it easier and more comfortable to receive dental treatment. Schedule an appointment with us today for the best dental care.
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Odontophobia is a reality for many people and refers to the extreme fear of dentists. Dental phobia knows no boundaries and could affect people from all spectrums; old or young, rich or poor. There are many triggers of odontophobia. The most common triggers are fear of pain, past traumatic dental experiences, the fear of losing control during treatment, and the fear of injections.