Embarrassed to See Your Dentist? One Dentist Explains why You Need not Fear

In the previous issue we talked with Dr. Vinson about fear of pain in dentistry, and he offered several helpful tips on how to overcome it. In this issue, we continue our discussion of the most feared aspects of dentistry—focusing particularly on embarrassment.

WHAT OTHER FEARS HAVE YOU ENCOUNTERED IN YOUR PRACTICE?
For a great number of people, embarrassment is a good reason to avoid seeing a dentist. It makes sense if you think about it. No other part of the body carries as much emotional significance as the teeth. We don’t shun people with poor eyesight, for example. We make light of unkempt hair, and even dirty fingernails aren’t considered as repulsive as bad teeth.
Although most of us are born with healthy teeth, the mouth requires a considerable amount of maintenance. I’m referring to daily brushing and flossing after meals, supported by professional gum therapy every 6 months at your dental office. Unfortunately, the stress of juggling a career and family obligations sometimes leads to neglect of routine dental appointments in favor of other responsibilities. Ironically, as dental disease develops, embarrassment and fear of being judged become the main reasons for avoiding the only person who can help—your dentist!

WHY ARE PEOPLE EMBARRASSED IN FRONT OF A DENTAL PROFESSIONAL MORE THAN OTHER DOCTORS?
In the past, many dentists believed that “lecturing” was a good way to "help" people, because it was supposed to frighten them into following the dentist’s advice. Unfortunately, this approach only made people resent and avoid dentists. 
Today’s dentists understand that they’re here to supply a service to their potential customer—you! They have a responsibility to inform you about the facts of your condition and provide treatment solutions, not judgment. Most modern dentists realize that criticism is a poor approach. A lot of us feel that dentistry is a caring profession, and we recognize there are real and sensitive people behind the teeth.

WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE TO OUR READERS?
If shame, embarrassment and guilt are keeping you from seeing a dentist, you’ve got plenty of company! But consider this: A dentist has chosen, as his life’s work, to help people who are suffering from dental disease. Therefore, they see bad teeth all the time. Although you might think you have bad teeth, chances are your dental provider has seen worse. A lot worse! 
Don’t let embarrassment stop you from getting the help you want and deserve. You may consider your situation as beyond hope, but your dentist will see it as an opportunity. Big problems, after all, set a stage for grand solutions. With modern dentistry, it’s never too late to create a dazzling smile! 
Gone are the days when tooth removal was the only predictable solution. Now we can replace missing teeth; change the color, shape or size of your teeth; even create a Hollywood smile if you so desire. So feel free to talk to us, then all of this will just be a problem you used to have!

DON’T LET EMBARRASSMENT STOP YOU FROM GETTING THE HELP YOU WANT AND DESERVE!

In the next issue, Dr. Vinson will continue our discussion of the top 5 fears in dentistry, with helpful tips on how to overcome them.

Dr. Oleg VINSON
25 Burns Street
Forest Hills, NY 11375
(718) 261-4747
www.teethtamers.com