Feeling nervous about a trip to the dentist is far more common than most people realise. It goes by a few names, including dental phobia and dental anxiety, and it can affect anyone, regardless of age or how many times they’ve sat in the chair before.
What causes dental anxiety?
Dental anxiety can build up from a range of things: a difficult past experience, a fear of needles or dental tools, certain sounds and smells associated with a clinic, or simply the worry that treatment might hurt. Whatever the cause, it’s a genuine and common concern, not something to feel embarrassed about.
How our team can help
Our dentists and hygienists understand that anxiety can make even a routine check-up feel daunting, and they’re used to supporting nervous patients through their visit. That starts with the basics: explaining each step before it happens, working at a pace you’re comfortable with, and agreeing on a signal you can use if you need a break at any point.
Simple ways to make a visit easier
Booking a time of day when you’re less rushed, bringing headphones or music, and letting the team know about your anxiety before your appointment starts all help set the visit up to go smoothly.
For some patients, a short initial visit focused on just talking through concerns - before any treatment is attempted - can also make a real difference.
Sedation options in dentistry
For patients with more significant anxiety, sedation dentistry is sometimes used to help make treatment more manageable. Options that exist across the profession range from inhaled sedation (commonly known as “happy gas”), which wears off quickly and allows you to remain conscious throughout, through to deeper sedation options used for longer or more complex procedures.
Not every practice offers every option, and suitability depends on your individual health and the treatment involved.
If sedation is something you’d like to discuss, mention it when you book so our team can talk you through what’s available and appropriate for your situation.