What are Dental Phobias and how can a Weighted Blanket Help?

Web MD states "Dental phobia is a more serious condition than anxiety. It leaves people panic-stricken and terrified. People with dental phobia have an awareness that the fear is totally irrational, but are unable to do much about it. They exhibit classic avoidance behavior; that is, they will do everything possible to avoid going to the dentist. People with dental phobia usually go to the dentist only when forced to do so by extreme pain."

Do you remember going to the dentist as a kid and having a bad feeling about it? Some people were pinched or hurt as a kid, and they cannot shake the feeling that going back will not be good. It's not rational, but over 100 million Americans, over 40% of the public is truly afraid of going to the dentist.

So what can you do? You can get a prescription ahead of time, and over 50% of dentists offer laughing gas which can help. A weighted blanket can also help dental anxiety if you plan to have one during the procedure.

Many dentists have begun to offer weighted blankets or an anxiety blanket to help patients who have anxiety when going to the dentist. If you like the weight of the Xray vest in the dental chair, a weighted blanket is a natural progression for you - it will help in the dentist chair. You can purchase a weighted blanket yourself to bring to the dentist or you can call your dentist to suggest that they carry a weighted blanket for their patients.

You shouldn't feel bad that you are afraid of going to the dentist. but don't let it stop you from getting necessary dental care.

It's important to know that you can plan ahead of time proactively to have a better dentist appointment and that it's a common fear.

For parents of young kids, a weighted blanket can offer a better dental experience for kids. Definitely look for a pediatric dentist who carries weighted blankets for the dental chair. Kids have such vivid imaginations it can really help them feel protected.

Ask your dentist to carry weighted blankets. Here's some additional info on dental anxiety and how a weighted blanket can help with dental anxiety.