Privacy Policy
Definition
A phobia is a quite different problem than simple fear or anxiety. The classic sign of a phobia is the 'avoidance behavior'. 'Avoidance behavior' is as it sounds - the patient does virtually everything possible to avoid the threatening situation. Avoidance is easy if the phobia is heights or flying but it is much more of a problem when the phobic situation is one that we all need at certain times of our lives, such as dental treatment. The accompanying features of a panic attack associated with a phobic situation include heart palpitations, feeling sick, nauseous and faint. Eventually the phobic patient may be more frightened of the panic symptoms, such as fainting and uncontrollable shaking, that of the phobic situation itself and feels unable to be in control.
Help
First find a sympathetic dentist and discuss
the matter with him. When booking the appointment tell the
receptionist that you are frightened and that you do not wish
for any surgical treatment at the visit - just a chat!
There are many methods available to help you while the
treatment is being done. These include techniques such as
Inhalation sedation, or even just the
support of some of your close family or friends.
This procedure uses combinations of nitrous
oxide and oxygen gases which are inhaled by the patient through
a rubber face mask.
Effects:
.....- Nitrous oxide
is a perfectly safe and simple drug to use.
.....- The strength of
the sedative effect depends upon the concentration of nitrous
oxide that is inhaled.
.....- The effects of
the gas wear off quite quickly after the mask is
removed.
How is it Given?:
.....- The effects of
nitrous oxide are easily controlled by the patient simply
breathing more or less room air through the mouth.
.....- The effects of
the gas wear off quite quickly after the mask is
removed.
Some people may find dental treatment easier
to tolerate if it is performed in the presence of a close
member of their family. If you think that this would be
sufficient to help you, do not be afraid to discuss this with
your dentist.