What Does the Word Odontophobia Mean?

But for some people, such fears can come in the form of dentophobia (also called odontophobia). Like other phobias, this is defined as an extreme or irrational fear to objects, situations, or people — in this case, dentophobia is the extreme fear of going to the dentist.

What does odontophobia mean?

Odontophobia is condition depicting an irrational and overwhelming fear of dentistry, is a very real fear for many people. Research estimates that over 75 percent of adults experience some form of 'dental fear,' and up to 10% percent suffer from ondontophobia.

What causes odontophobia?

Causes of Dental Phobia

Past traumatic dental experiences. A history of abuse outside of dentistry may also trigger dental phobia. Parents or guardians who are also afraid of dentists can pass that fear to their children. Lack of control or feeling helpless when visiting a dentist.