Encinitas Periodontist Discusses Dental Phobias and Anxiety Disorders

Did you know that May is Mental Health Month? Your Encinitas periodontist, Dr. Ann Kania raises awareness for mental health by discussing the impact of dental phobias and anxiety disorders on patients and their oral health.

Information on Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States. Some estimates indicate that up to 40 million people in the U.S. suffer from some type of anxiety disorder. Types of anxiety disorders include post traumatic stress disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and specific phobias. Although these disorders may differ in severity and symptoms, most patients suffer with intense fears and irrational thinking. Fortunately, anxiety disorders are easier to diagnose and treat than other types of mental illness.

Dental Phobias

Did you know about one out of every five people are afraid of visiting the dentist? While some patients are only mildly afraid, others may have such intense fears that they forgo receiving necessary oral healthcare. Severe fears of visiting the dentist are considered a specific phobia. A person with a specific phobia often experiences heart palpitations, panic attacks, dizziness, and debilitating anxiety when faced with a particular situation or object.

Keeping You Comfortable at Our Encinitas Periodontist Office

Dr. Ann Kania understands the fears and discomfort associated with anxiety and dental phobias. Our team takes a compassionate approach when working with our fearful patients. We promote a serene, comfortable environment and work to keep every patient relaxed. Dr. Kania also provides varying levels of sedation to keep even the most fearful patients at ease.

To learn more about sedation dentistry or to schedule an appointment, contact our Encinitas periodontist office at (760) 642-0711. We serve patients from San Diego, La Costa, Rancho Santa Fe, San Marcos, Oceanside, and the surrounding communities.