Millions of North Americans avoid the dentist. Some had traumatic experiences as children. Others suffered pain as adults. Still more were swayed by stereotypes in movies or parental horror stories. For others it’s a simple matter of time. No matter the reason, far too many of these individuals simply stopped seeking routine dental care because they were frightened. Even when they were faced with such warning signs as pain in their mouths or gums they still stayed away from the dentist.