I need to go to the dentist, but I'm terrified

[comrade777]

I'm 21, and have never really brushed my teeth. I did it off and on as a kid, my mum never really made us do it, so we never did, and I never really made it a habit. A lot happened in my teenage years, and i became really depressed and agoraphobic. I stopped looking after the rest of myself, and have never really gotten back any of those habits. This year, I have done a lot to work on myself, and i'm slowly getting better, but one thing that's bothered me is my teeth.

I struggle to keep habits, and I have struggled to brush my teeth every day. The main issue is the front tooth, it's decayed. At the back there's a hole in the tooth that keeps getting bigger, and the tooth is starting to become black at the front. And not it's starting to hurt, and become really sensitive. I noticed it over a year ago, but i've been terrified of going to the dentist, because i'm really ashamed and embarrassed of my problem. I feel really ashamed that I can't get into the habit of brushing either. I'm really scared to tell anyone in my family for help, i feel like my mum would just be angry, and my dad would just make me feel embarrassed. Both of them also have dental issues as well, for context. there is one person, but i'm not sure.

I just feel really ashamed, and i'm not sure what to do. i know i need to start brushing, but my mental health isn't great, and i struggle to see the point, because they're really bad. i just dont know what to do.

 

[CookiesMom22]

Bless your heart. I'm 66 years old and have had a fear of dentist since childhood and recently had all except 8 pulled (08/26/2025) My problem was my love of lemons!!!!! The acidity started weakening my teeth at the gum line. Anyway, my dentist doesn't put you to sleep and I had to find one who would and my dentist sent a referral. The extractions went GREAT and I was awaken, alert and out of the door in no time!!!!!! Please don't be embarrassed, it's their profession and trust me; I'm sure they've seen much worse than yours. You're still young, so find a dentist who'll sedate you, get it done so we can SMILE! Keep us posted. Stay BLESSED and be safe.

 

[comrade777]

@CookiesMom22 Thank you for taking the time to reply.

I actually went to the dentist today! They were so nice, and made me feel so at ease. My teeth aren't as bad as I thought, they just need a few fillings. I'm really glad I went and did it

 

[CookiesMom22]

@comrade777 I'm so HAPPY for you!!!!!!! Now we'll be looking for pics I have ways to go before I'm able to post pics

 

[Dr. Daniel]

Hi. You need motivation in order to overcome obstacles such as feeling ashamed, embarraced, and self blaming. Here is a video I made which I hope can do you good:

If you want to share your x-rays, feel free to do so.