Overcoming dentist fear is ‘life changing’
Conquering a fear of the dental chair and visiting a dentist can change lives, according to the Olympian Online.
It cites figures by the American Dental Association that estimate 30 per cent of Americans do not attend the dentist on a regular basis.
Many studies into dental care have found that fear is one of the biggest reasons for missing appointments, reports the Indian Journal of Dental Research.
Gene Lazar admitted to the Olympian Online that he freezes when it comes to dental work after a traumatic two-hour dental appointment thirty years ago put him off going.
However, after visiting a dentist which advertised "we cater for cowards", Mr Lazar rectified his bad gums and loose teeth.
Following his visit, Mr Lazar changed his diet and lost 35 pounds (15.8 kg).
"I’m going to lose 50," he said.
According to Philip Weinstein, a clinical psychologist and the co-founder of the Dental Fears Research Clinic at the University of Washington claimed conquering dental fear can have a "profound impact on someone’s life".
