How is dentophobia diagnosed?

How is dentophobia diagnosed?

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) recognizes dentophobia as a specific phobic disorder in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Your healthcare provider may diagnose dentophobia if you experience intense anxiety or fear when thinking about or visiting the dentist.

Your dentist or healthcare provider may suggest that you see a mental health professional like a psychologist. This healthcare provider can formally evaluate your symptoms, including how the phobia impacts your daily life.

You may have this specific phobic disorder if your fear of dentists:

• Occurs when you think about visiting or go to visit the dentist.
• Prevents you from seeing a dentist, even when you’re in pain or need urgent treatment.
• Triggers symptoms of anxiety or fear that don’t match the actual danger.
• Lasts at least six months.

How can I find out if my child has dentophobia?

A constant fear of the dentist can be extremely upsetting for your child. If your child is very young, it may be difficult for them to verbalize what’s wrong.

If severe fear of the dentist greatly impacts your child’s life, your child’s healthcare provider or dentist may recommend they visit a mental health professional. This healthcare provider can look at your child’s symptoms, offer a diagnosis and help you form a treatment plan.