Poll Shows Half of Canadians Dread Going to the Dentist
A new poll has revealed that half of Canadians dread going to the dentist.
More than 25 percent of those polled would rather have dinner with their in-laws than pay the dental clinic a visit, while 1 in 7 said they would rather sit and watch paint dry. Fifteen percent of those surveyed hated the dentist so much that they would rather run into an ex-partner than endure a dental appointment.
Many of the participants said the sounds and smells of the dental clinic made them feel anxious and several said they were afraid of pain.
Rates of anxiety were highest among those aged between 18 and 34 years and British Columbia came out as the region most scared of the dentist.
One suggestion to make the dental experience slightly more pleasant was to reduce the numbing time. Many respondents said they wished their mouth would be frozen for less time so they could get back to normal after treatment.
Surveys suggest that dental dread is among the most common fears and phobias. Dentists are aware that most people don’t look forward to seeing them and a growing number of practices offer techniques and treatments to help patients feel more relaxed. Examples include providing treatment under sedation and putting music or films on during a procedure.
Join this Discussion