Have you ever had a toothache that caused you constant pain? You want to get it treated, but the thought of going to the dentist’s office fills you with dread. You imagine sitting helpless in the chair while they poke you with needles and all kinds of tools. Just thinking about it makes you freeze with fear. You decide that it’s easier to just deal with the pain instead of visiting a dentist. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. As many as 20 percent of American adults have avoided the dentist out of anxiety. However, ignoring dental problems can make them worse over time. Let’s examine the possible causes and treatments of dentophobia, or fear of the dentist, from a sedation dentist in Montrose.