Get Rid Of Dental Phobia With Dental Spa
May 12th, 2008
One of the main reasons most people avoid visiting the dentist is dental anxiety or fear of dentist. Dental anxiety drives some people to create more dental problems by not visiting the dentist on a regular basis. According to Floss.com, between nine percent and 15 percent of the American population — about 30 million to 40 million people — avoid essential dental care because of fear or anxiety.
The official medical definition of (dental fear) dentophobia is “a morbid, irrational fear of, or aversion to going to dentists”. The fear of being tilted back in a dentist’s chair and having hands and other foreign objects in your mouth is a very reasonable phobia. The problem is that it is one of the things in life that we all have to endure. To maintain a healthy and lasting smile it is recommended that we have our teeth checked and cleaned by a professional every six months. But for some people just the thought of this task is frightening enough.
Why Fear The Dentist?
According to Michael Krochak, D.M.D., founder and director of the Dental Phobia Treatment Center in New York City, negative portrayals of dentists in movies, TV, and newspapers contribute to the widespread fear of the dentist’s office. Previous negative experiences at the dentist can cause dental phobias. Another reason some may fear the dentist is because of embarrassment about hygiene and fear of being judged or lectured.
Reflexology In Dentistry
Reflexology is an ancient technique that connects pressure points on the hands and feet to organ systems in the body. In dentistry, massage therapists apply reflexology techniques to assist in relaxation and anesthesia. During a dental visit, tension occurs mainly in the shoulders, head and neck.
Reflexology helps to relieve tension in the upper body and allows the facial muscles to relax. As a patient relaxes, the flow of blood slows as the breathing pattern decreases, which helps the doctor administer anesthesia more effectively. “If we’re working on a patient that is relaxed, it makes our job a lot easier,” Debra King, D.D.S., president of the Atlanta Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, was quoted as saying.
Pampering At The Dentist. Dental Spa.
For someone who is generally anxious there are several ways to relax. Asking the dentist to explain what he is doing step by step or putting up a hand when you want to stop for a moment. Those with more serious anxiety, nitrous oxide, oral or IV tranquilizers, or general anesthesia may be necessary.
The next time you want a relaxing day at the spa, consider stopping by the dentist. According to the American Dental Association, about five percent of dental offices are considered “dental spas.”
At the Mitchell Dental Spa in Chicago, patients are treated to complimentary champagne in the waiting room, along with a facial massage. At the Atlanta Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, patients are loosened up in a vibrating “Zen Chair” before their appointment, free of charge. The amenities at the More Smiles Dental Spa in Louisiana include personal music, refreshments, massage pads, overhead TV’s, warm blankets and a reading desk to personalize the experience.
More Smiles even offers manicures and pedicures and a Louisiana cuisine lunch to make their patients as comfortable as possible. At most dental spas, the price of these extra perks depends on your insurance policy.
Was used materials form WPTV.com
Categories: Dentists, Teeth
Dental Spas are the latest rage, and probably will continue to be for some time. As long as quality care is available at such facilities, that is. As with anything, do your homework before trusting anybody with your health.