Would you rather suffer with a toothache than make a trip to the dentist? If so, you are not alone. Some people avoid seeing the dentist because they have dental anxiety or phobia. But staying away is never a good idea. Waiting usually makes the problem worse.

Is it dental anxiety or phobia?
It's common to feel some anxiety about going to the dentist. A phobia is a much stronger feeling. People with dental phobia are terrified of seeing a dentist. They may never see a dentist, even when they are suffering from bleeding gums or a broken tooth. What's more, there is no clear boundary between dental anxiety and a phobia.

You may have dental anxiety or phobia if:

• The thought of going to the dentist makes you ill
• You have trouble sleeping the night before a dental visit
• You feel like crying when you have to see a dentist
• You panic when objects are placed in your mouth during a dental exam

What causes dental phobia?
Bad experiences, usually reaching back to childhood, are a major source of dental anxiety. Keep in mind, though, that dental care has improved dramatically over the last 20 years. Pain-free treatments and techniques other than drilling are commonplace today.

Sitting in the dental chair - just like flying in an airplane - is a situation where you have little control over what is going to happen. It's common to be anxious about that.

If you haven't seen a dentist in a while, you may be embarrassed about the appearance of your teeth. You may become self-conscious and insecure and you may avoid smiling. In extreme cases, a person's personal and professional lives may start to suffer.

Self-help and other treatments
It is very important to have a dentist who understands your fears, takes them seriously, and works with you to overcome them.

If you fear pain, ask for a topical anesthetic to minimize the discomfort of cleanings and minor gum treatments. A local anesthetic numbs your mouth completely for a few hours and blocks out all pain.

If the sound of the dentist's tools bothers you, bring a music player with you to the appointment and wear headphones. Music also helps in different relaxation techniques. Guided imagery can take your mind off the things going on around you. Imagine yourself in a pleasant place. For example, imagine the feel of the gentle breeze on your face and the sound of ocean waves breaking against the shore.

Most importantly, get regular checkups at gitbook. You'll become familiar with the dentist and you'll be able to catch problems early, before they become major.

If you still are anxious after trying these self-help tips, talk to your doctor or a counselor.