Are you afraid of the dentist?

Q: Why are you afraid of the dentist?

A: Being “afraid of the dentist” may mean different things to different people. It will probably help if you work out just what it is that worries you most.

Some people have specific fears about actual areas of treatment - for example, they are scared that having a filling will hurt. Some people don’t like the thought of being out of control.

Some people find that sounds and smells bring back memories of bad experiences as a child.

A small number of people are genuinely afraid of dental treatment. The good news is that we as dentists now understand the patient’s fears and with a combination of kindness and gentleness can do great deal to make your dental treatment pleasant and acceptable.

Q: I have been scared of the dentist for a while - what is it like now?

A: Dental techniques have improved so much over the last few years that modern dental treatment can now be completely painless. Despite this, most people still feel a little nervous at the thought of going to the dentist.

If you have not been to see us for some time, you will probably find that things have improved a lot since your last visit. The general attitude is likely to be more relaxed, the dental techniques and safety procedures will be much better and the equipment will be more up to date.

Q: Do some practices specialise in treating nervous patients?

A: As someone who is nervous about dental treatment, you need to be looked after by a dental team that will take special care of you. You may need to travel some distance, but it will be worth the effort when you are no longer afraid.

Often people find their fears change. After finally finding a dentist and practice they like, they may still dislike dentists in general but they have complete confidence in their “own” dentist.

Q: I haven’t been to the dentist in a long time - will I need a lot of treatment?

A: Years ago it was normal for people to need fillings every time they went to the dentist, but things have changed for the better now. Fluoride toothpastes have made a large impact on tooth decay and you may be surprised at how little treatment you may need.

The aim now is for healthy mouths to stay healthy. Teeth are for life and can last a lifetime if they are looked after properly. If you can get your mouth into good shape, with the help of the dentist and dental hygienist, you should need less treatment and there will be less for us to do in the future.

Once your mouth is healthy, your visit to the practice will often just be easy sessions for checking and cleaning.

Q: What will happen at the first visit?

A: Your first visit should just be a consultation. See it as an opportunity for you to “interview” the dentist, receptionist and dental nurse.

If you like what you see and hear, you may want to arrange another appointment for a short treatment session. Allow yourself to take things at your own speed, and don’t be pressured into anything your not happy about.

Q: Should I tell the dental team that I am nervous?

A: Make sure that the practice knows you are nervous, so that they can help you. Tell us what it is that you particularly dislike about dental treatment. If you think you know the reason, tell us what may have caused your fear. Was it a bad experience as a child? Was it a recent dental experience? Or is it a more general feeling of worry and fear?

Q: How can the dental team help me?

A: We will be happy to both talk to you and listen to you. Just talking about your fears can help lessen them. We will tell you what treatment you need, why you need it and what the fee will be.

Q: Can I bring anything with me?

A: Listening to music is a good way to help you relax. At the Chadwell Heath Dental Clinic we have music playing in the treatment rooms and in the waiting room, but if you wish you can bring you own personal stereo so that you can have your own choice of music. In this way you can concentrate on your music or anything else you like to listen to - and will not hear the sounds of the treatment. You will be able to distance yourself from the dental treatment as the sounds in your ears take all your attention.

Q: Can I ask the dentist to stop if I need to?

A: Agree with the dentist a sign that means, “stop”. Usually you can just raise your hand, and the treatment can be stopped for a few minutes until you are ready to start again. Once you know that you can control the situation you will feel more confident.

Q: What techniques are available to help?

A: We at the Chadwell Heath Dental Clinic offer several types of sedation including inhalation (“gas” and “air”) and intravenous sedation (by injection) this is available at the clinic for children from the age of 3 years up and of course for all adults.

A specialist anaesthetist administers the sedation and an experienced dentist carries out your treatment.

What is Sedation?

A: Patients who feel they need some extra help can be given a sedative medication, often called intravenous sedation or IV. This makes them feel sleepy and very relaxed. Treatment with this type of sedation often works well, particularly for long treatment sessions, as you are very relaxed. The dentist can still talk to you, but time passes more quickly and you are unaware of the treatment being carried.