I haven’t been to the dentist in over ten years. I’m terrified of the dentist. I’ve had very bad experiences with them. I wonder if there are dentists who are used to dealing with terrified patients? I’ve been having a tooth bother me.

Emily S. – Utah

Emily,

You are not alone in your fear of the dentist. Fortunately, you are right. There are dentists who specialize in treating fearful patients.  Some of them advertise as sedation dentists. Others say they cater to cowards.

I wouldn’t put this off. I know you’re frightened, but if don’t get your tooth looked at and it is an infection, you could end up in serious trouble.  The sooner you get seen, the easier your treatment is likely to be.

You’d rather have to deal with a cavity than have to have your tooth extracted and replaced.

This blog is brought to you by Oklahoma City Dentist Dr. Don Swearingen.