The fear of dentists is drilled into us

By KATHERINE HOBY

Childhood fears of "the murderhouse" often continue into adulthood and stop people going to the dentist regularly.

Dr Robin Whyman, executive director of the NZ Dental Association, says about 40 per cent of the population see a dentist on a regular basis, 30 per cent go reasonably regularly and about 30 per cent go only in an emergency.

"The scary thing is part of it," he says. "Fear and cost are factors. In fact, fear of cost is a key one."

The association advises people to visit their dentist once a year.

A discussion with your dentist may lead to extending that period beyond a year or for those with some dental issues to every three, six, or nine months.

"It's all about building a relationship with someone. We think talking is the first step," Dr Whyman says.

If you have a good relationship with your dentist, problems are often picked up at an earlier stage and dealt with, saving a lot of pain and cost in the long run.

Schools still have dental clinics, and secondary school students can also get free dental checks from dentists contracted to District Health Boards.

The elderly need to be particularly vigilant about oral health, as changes can mean gum disease sets in quite quickly, he says.

Oral cancer is also an issue.

He stresses that people form a good rapport with their dentist, and not just turn to them in a crisis.

"We are human, and we are here to help."

Further reading:
nzherald.co.nz/health