Smiles by Dr. Santos, Manahawkin dentist

Fear of the dentist is known as “odontophobia and dentophobia.” It’s a very real condition. Seventy-five percent of all Americans have some degree of fear or anxiety towards dental procedures. For between five and ten percent of adults, the fear is so bad that they will refuse dental care unless it’s a medical necessity, and in some cases, not even then. This fear can come from a painful or traumatic experience earlier in life, and it can color a person’s expectations going forward; but dental health is critically important, and it’s not just about having a great smile.