Dental anxiety is something that a lot of people experience. Unfortunately, this anxiety can lead to avoidance of going to the dentist, and then when you do go, the visit is more complicated due to a lack of consistent professional care. Here are five common causes of dental anxiety.

1. Fear of the Unknown

Humans have a built-in fear of the unknown. For as long as humankind has existed, this natural fear has helped to keep us safe. So when you go to the dentist and you don’t know what they’re doing, it’s natural to have anxiety. At New Age Dental Care, your dentist in Chesterfield, MO makes a point of letting you know what’s happening, as it’s happening, so you never have to feel like you’re in the dark.

2. Past Experiences

If you’ve had past bad experiences at the dentist, it’s natural that you’d want to subject yourself to more. But not all dentists are the same, and the past doesn’t dictate the future.

3. Fear of Pain

The fear of pain is perhaps the most straightforward and prevalent cause of dental anxiety. Many people associate dental work with pain, either from personal experience or horror stories shared by others.

4. Lack of Control

Sitting in a dental chair and feeling out of control, can be quite unnerving. This vulnerability can intensify anxiety, making patients extremely uncomfortable about not being able to control the situation.

5. Negative Stereotypes

Media portrayals of dentistry often emphasize discomfort, pain, and fear, reinforcing negative stereotypes. Dramatic scenes depicting dental procedures as torturous can feed into the collective fear, influencing how people perceive dental care.

At New Age Dental Care, our  dental exams in Chesterfield, MO are done with sensitivity to any anxiety a patient may be feeling. Contact us now to book your next appointment without fear!