Dental phobia
Dental phobia – When fear of the dentist impairs oral health
Fear of the dentist is present in a large proportion of the population. Many people experience discomfort at the thought of a dental office, dental instruments, or a drill, particularly when a more complex procedure is involved.
However, in some individuals, this fear goes beyond ordinary discomfort and becomes a serious condition known as dental phobia.
What is dental phobia?
Dental phobia is not the same as “ordinary” anxiety or fear of the dentist. Patients do not experience only mild discomfort, concern, or the usual apprehension before a dental visit.
Dental phobia affects approximately 6 to 12% of people and represents an extreme, irrational fear of the dentist that leads to avoidance of even simple dental examinations, often until pain becomes unbearable.
The causes are most commonly previous traumatic experiences, especially in childhood, accompanied by intense symptoms such as panic attacks, heart palpitations, and sweating.
For people with dental phobia, fear of the dentist:
- Seriously compromises oral health
- Interferes with social and daily functioning
- Causes loss of self-confidence
- Creates communication difficulties
- Significantly reduces quality of life
We understand your fear
For more than 10 years, we have been dedicated to working with patients who struggle with dental phobia. If you are facing such an extreme form of fear, we can help you.
We understand that coming in for an examination represents a major step. Therefore, we use specific methods of care and provide additional support tailored to the needs of patients with dental phobia.
Our approach to patients with dental phobia includes:
- Conscious sedation – controlled sedation under professional supervision that reduces fear and discomfort during procedures without loss of consciousness
- Cooperation with anesthesiology teams – with safety and expertise prioritised at every step
- An individualized approach – based on patience, understanding, and the absence of pressure
What can you expect?
- No judgment – your experiences and reactions are respected
- Pain control – modern methods are used to minimize discomfort
- No rush – the pace of treatment is adapted to each patient
- Full support – from the first contact to completion of treatment
