Russians are no longer afraid of dentists thanks to technology and trust in doctors

Russians are gradually getting rid of their fear of dentists: attitudes towards dental treatment have improved markedly in recent years. According to a survey of dental analysts by Reformat, which was reviewed by Izvestia on December 5, 62% of the country's residents now perceive a visit to a doctor more calmly than before.

"Modern technologies make treatment more accurate and predictable, which reduces patients' anxiety. Digital diagnostics, computer simulation of the result and new anesthesia methods make it possible to carry out procedures almost painlessly," said Maxim Khyshov, founder and chief dentist of Refformat Dentistry.

According to the study, 52% of Russians have become less afraid due to successful personal experiences, 46% - thanks to new equipment, and 41% noted that doctors have become more attentive. Another 38% are sure that peace of mind comes when you manage to find "your own" specialist.

Themselves with fillings: Russians "treat" teeth at home instead of visits to dentists

Self-medication kits from the Internet threaten the development of infections, tooth loss and bone damage, doctors warn

However, some citizens still have anxiety. The main reasons for fear are possible pain (63%), the unpredictable cost of treatment (47%) and unpleasant associations with the sounds and smells of the clinic (41%). For 34%, childhood memories have an impact, while 29% are afraid of hearing a bad diagnosis.

The survey also showed that patients prepare for a dentist appointment in different ways. Almost half (46%) simply come without preparation, 28% study information about the doctor in advance, and 19% mentally adjust themselves before medical procedures.

56% of the respondents named the guarantee of absence of pain as the main condition for the complete elimination of fear. For 48%, clear prices and clear explanations from the doctor are important, while 41% consider the caring attitude of the staff to be a crucial factor. Only 12% are confident that their anxiety will not disappear.

Experts noted that trust in the dentist is formed equally by the recommendations of friends and a comfortable atmosphere at the reception — 40% each. A third of Russians (33%) also pay attention to the technological equipment of the clinic, which confirms that patients appreciate the combination of a human and professional approach to treatment.

On November 18, Anastasia Kardakova, a periodontist, dentist and expert at REVIXAN, told Izvestia about the health-threatening symptoms in her mouth. According to her, a thin plaque on the tongue in the morning is a variant of the norm: it appears due to dryness or leftover food. However, if the plaque is dense, cheesy, accompanied by a burning sensation and an unpleasant odor, this may indicate a fungal infection (oral candidiasis).

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.