Fear of dentists is one of the most common fears.
Let's face it, when you stop and think about it, this is not entirely an irrational fear.
Seriously, a virtual stranger is about to put their hands into your mouth.
Yes, their hands and needles, scrapers, a drill for heaven's sake.
Seems that this is in fact a pretty rational fear.
Well, thankfully the field of medicine has come a long way over the years.
And the field of dentistry has given them a run for their money.
Even the needles today are just about painless.
Still people are afraid.
This fear of dentists causes too many people to delay seeing the dentist or make regular dental visits.
This makes any existing dental problems worse, as they do not receive timely or adequate attention.
More than a few delay seeing the dentist out of fear of embarrassment.
Some are so terrified that it has been years since they have had a dental visit, if ever.
Their teethe are now in an unhealthy state.
They fear criticism and judgment from the dentist and office staff.
Some others have had a painful experience.
Perhaps they have seen a less than compassionate dentist.
Maybe one who refused to administer adequate pain medication or frequently insisted on treatment which conjure up images of "Dr Jekyll".
Here is the really good news.
Most dentists today are highly skilled and qualified to care for their fearful clients.
They are in fact aware of just how terrified many men and women are.
They are not inclined to lecture you on the importance of regular visits.
Reminders perhaps, but no lectures.
Go ahead, make an appointment.
You have nothing to fear of dentists, but fear itself.