Sexual Abuse is Linked to Fear of Dentists and Dental Procedures

Anyone who is a survivor of sexual abuse, is likely aware that the trauma of the abuse can last a lifetime. Flashbacks of feelings or events can arise at any given moment for abuse survivors. Everyday activities can surge feelings of fear, anxiety, and stress. It is possible that survivors of abuse do not even connect the trigger of these feelings with the past abuse.

Studies show that sexual abuse occurrence is not rare. Statistics indicate that as often as 1 in 4 women have been abused. For males, the figures are as high as 1 in 7 men. Experts in this field of study feel that such data may be underreporting the abuse. Men, in particular, are less likely to report or discuss abuse.

Children who have suffered from abuse are shown to have trouble dealing with activities involving discomfort. Any circumstance that represents a loss of control, fear, helplessness, or even pain can be overwhelming and emotionally disturbing. For this reason, it is only logical to understand why abuse victims avoid such circumstances.

A visit to the dentist causes some degree of fear in about 80 percent of the population. Not all people who fear the dentist or dental procedures are victims of childhood abuse. Fear and anxiety can be caused by numerous factors.

What can be done to make a dental procedure more comfortable for someone who has suffered from abuse?

Many options are available to help reduce anxiety and fear related to dentists and dental procedures. Women, for example, will postpone a visit to the dentist's office for about three years. When a circumstance arises that clearly needs medical attention, the survivor will often schedule a visit. Knowing that the less frequent visits to the dentist will indicate poorer oral health, the victim may have feelings of shame.

Such feelings only accentuate the fear and anxiety experienced by the patient. When scheduling the appointment, ask for extra time during the visit. The added time will allow the patient and dentist time to discuss the anxiety. There is no need to disclose information about the past abuse if this feels uncomfortable, but speaking to your dentist about your fear will help.

Some patients find it relaxing to listen to headphones during their dental procedure. Selecting a CD or radio station with your favorite tunes will keep your mind occupied and more relaxed.

Always ask the dentist to explain what they are going to do. When the victim is informed about what to expect, the level of anxiety decreases. Some dentists will even allow the patient to assist with the device that removes the excess water and saliva. Whenever possible, allowing the patient to participate in the treatment will add to the feeling of control over the situation.

The situation of being in a small room with a person of power can be a troublesome thought. Add to the scene anticipated pain and the horizontal position of the patient. The event can be symbolic of abuse for some people. A patient can be thrown into a flashback or dissociative episode. This experience can be frightening for the patient. The individual may begin to cry for no obvious reason. They may feel like they are observing themselves from a corner of the room. The particular event can vary greatly from person to person and episode to episode.

One way to control the problem of a flashback is to agree with the dentist prior to the procedure on a signal that will tell the dentist to cease the activity. Your cue could be blinking three times quickly or a thumbs down, whatever is comfortable for you and your doctor.

A dentist who is empathetic is key. It is important to choose a dentist you can be the most comfortable with. Having a friend or trusted relative with you during the procedure may also be helpful. This is especially true when dental procedures involving sedation is necessary. It is true that sedation is a fabulous tool for some anxious patients, but for many victims of abuse, the thought of sedation adds to the fear of loss of control and vulnerability.

Childhood abuse can have life-long effects on the victims. It is important for doctors and patients to be aware of this, so the issue of fear can be addressed in the most effective way. As patients and dentists become aware of the connection between abuse and phobia, it will be easier for all parties to work together to improve the doctor/patient relationship. An empathetic dentist and a patient willing to communicate their concerns will make the best medicine for this situation.