Can I get dentures if I have severe anxiety or phobia of dentists?
Introduction
One question we often encounter at the Denture Directory is, ‘Can I get dentures if I have severe anxiety or a phobia of dentists?’. The answer, in short, is yes. In fact, dental professionals are increasingly aware of dental anxiety and have implemented various strategies to help patients feel more comfortable during their visits. This blog post will explore these strategies and how they may apply to patients considering dentures.
Understanding Dental Anxiety and Phobia
According to the NHS, dental anxiety is common and can range from mild unease to a severe phobia, known as dentophobia. This fear can stem from various sources, including past traumatic experiences, fear of pain, or the feeling of loss of control. However, letting dental anxiety or phobia go unaddressed can lead to worsening dental health, making procedures like dentures necessary.
What are the Options?
If you suffer from dental anxiety or phobia but need dentures, there are several options available to you. These include various types of dentures, such as acrylic, chrome, flexible (Valplast), injection moulded, and even 3D printed options. The lifespan of these dentures varies, with standard acrylic lasting 1–3 years, high-impact acrylic and flexible dentures lasting 3–5 years, and chrome lasting 8–12 years. For more information on the various types of dentures, and the costs associated with them, check out our guide on how much dentures cost in the UK.
How Dental Practices Accommodate Anxiety
Dental practices use various methods to help patients with anxiety or phobia. Some practices offer sedation, which can range from mild sedatives to general anaesthesia, depending on the severity of the anxiety and the complexity of the procedure. Other practices may offer Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which is a type of psychological treatment that can help you manage your fears by changing the way you think and behave. The General Dental Council (GDC) encourages practices to offer such options to patients with dental anxiety or phobia.
Getting Dentures from Clinical Dental Technicians
Another option for patients suffering from dental anxiety or phobia is to consider getting full dentures from a Clinical Dental Technician (CDT). CDTs are dental professionals who have undergone additional training to provide full dentures directly to patients. However, partial dentures must still be prescribed by a dentist. CDT-led practices like Smiles Centre are particularly experienced in dealing with anxious patients, offering a relaxed and calm environment for your denture fitting.
Regular Care for Dentures
Once you have your dentures, regular care, including relines and adjustments, is a crucial part of maintaining your dental health. These visits can also be a source of anxiety. However, remember that these visits are typically shorter and less invasive. Over time, regular denture care can even help reduce dental anxiety, as it allows you to build trust with your dental professional and become familiar with the dental environment.
Conclusion
In summary, if you suffer from severe anxiety or phobia of dentists but need dentures, there are options available to you. Dental practices are increasingly aware of dental anxiety and offer various methods to accommodate patients, while options like Clinical Dental Technicians can offer a more relaxed environment for full denture fittings. With the right support and care, you can maintain your oral health and confidently wear your dentures. For more information on dentures, visit our Denture Directory.
Remember, facing your dental anxiety or phobia is a significant first step towards better oral health. Don’t let fear hold you back from getting the dental care you need.