11 year-old terrified of dentist
I am 11 years old and I am terrified of dentists. I haven't gone since early 1996 because of the pain and awful experiences. When I was six, I cried at the dentist's office, and he told me to SHUT UP! When I was eight, I had to get two caps, which were very painful. Please don't tell me to grow up; I'm plenty mature for my age. Please help me because I now have a tooth that hurts when I brush it with an electric toothbrush.
Allison
Question:Dear Allison,
I would never tell you to "grow up." You have expressed your dental anxiety to me in a very clear and mature manner. Dental fear is a very real feeling, which many people share. It's usually related to fear of the unknown, a previous bad experience or the thought of potential pain. Dental fear can be intensified by seeking treatment only at the time of an emergency. Generally, by this time, a tooth has (or teeth have) become extremely painful, possibly infected, and may require more extensive treatment. I strongly urge all patients to seek regular dental care as this is generally easier, less painful and less expensive than seeking emergency care only.
To feel more comfortable, you and your dentist need to establish good communication. If you liked the dentist you saw in 1996, this may be a good place to start. If you did not care for this dentist, ask your parents to locate a new one for you. From the very beginning, do not be hesitant to explain your fears to the dentist. In fact, you may just want the first appointment to be a "getting to know you" appointment. During this time, sit in the dental chair and just talk with your dentist - no exam, no treatment. Just talk with each other about your backgrounds, hobbies, etc. This will allow you to establish some trust with your dentist. The dentist should address your fears, including proper anesthesia to obtain comfort during any dental procedures. You may want to discuss use of nitrous oxide gas ("laughing gas") to help relax you during any dental procedure.
If a procedure is new to you or you have questions regarding the procedure, an explanation of the procedure may help you to feel more comfortable. In fact, with all my young patients, I carefully explain the procedure on a level they can understand and show them some of the instruments which will be used. This practice seems to help relieve some stress about the appointment. I also establish communication with my patients even if they cannot speak because they have instruments in their mouths. I tell all my patients to raise their left hand if something is uncomfortable or if they need a break. If the left hand goes up, I stop immediately. This gives the patient some control over the dental procedure. Having this control may also decrease your anxiety about the appointment. If none of these ideas help, there are medications that your dentist can prescribe to help you relax.
Pain-control techniques have improved since your last dental visit in 1996.
At the very least, you should have a dentist check the tooth you mention. The sensitivity you feel may be an initial sign of a small problem, which may only get worse as time passes. It may be a very simple problem, such as root sensitivity to the electric toothbrush, which may be resolved by using toothpaste for sensitive teeth. In either case, having it checked now will be easier than having it checked later.
Allison, let me emphasize that I do understand your fear. Fear is normal and it can be controlled. I have quite a number of very nervous and anxious patients, but through good communication and by taking treatment slow and easy, many of them are more comfortable now. You do sound mature, so I know you will do the best thing for your health. Let me know if I can be of further assistance.
Answer:
