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Fighting the Fear: How to Get Treatment When You Have Dental Phobia
This article addresses dental phobia and provides supportive, realistic strategies to help anxious patients seek the dental care they need. It explains that while mild nervousness about dental visits is common, dental phobia is more intense and can prevent people from booking appointments even when they are experiencing pain or other problems. The article reassures readers that they are not alone and that dental professionals are familiar with these fears. One of the key recommendations is open communication. By telling the dental team about specific fears—such as pain, loss of control, certain instruments, gagging, smells, or the clinic environment—treatment can often be adapted to reduce anxiety and make the experience more manageable. The article also suggests practical steps to reduce stress, including booking appointments during quieter times of the day, using noise-cancelling headphones to block out sounds, and bringing a trusted friend or family member for support. Mindful breathing techniques are recommended to calm the nervous system during moments of heightened anxiety. For those whose dental phobia significantly affects their quality of life, the article encourages seeking help from a GP, as anxiety is a treatable condition and support such as medication or talking therapy may be available. Overall, the article emphasises that compassionate dental care is available and that nervous patients are supported at Harley Private Dental, helping them feel safe and comfortable while receiving essential treatment.
Fighting the Fear: How to Get Treatment When You Have Dental Phobia
Do you have anxiety whenever you think about going to the dentist? Maybe you’ve got a toothache or another dental problem on your mind—but you can’t bring yourself to make that appointment. If this sounds like you, you may have a dental phobia.
Anxieties around going to the dentist are fairly common. Most people feel a little nervous about getting treatments, but for some, the fear runs deeper. If you have dental phobia, you’re not alone. The problem affects a larger percentage of the population than you may think.
But when you need essential treatment, how can you overcome these worries?
Here are some tips for fighting your dental anxiety.
Tell Us About It
If you’ve got a phobia of dental treatments, you might not even want to speak to a dentist. But we’re some of the best people to talk to about it. We’re the ones who need to know.
If we know what you’re scared of, we might be able to alter the way we treat you to help you.
Nervous patients have several common fears. Worrying about pain is completely understandable. You may have phobias about the specific instruments we use, feel a loss of control when you’re in the chair, or worry you might gag.
It’s not unusual for people to dislike the feel of latex gloves against their mouth; for some, the smell or the clinic's atmosphere could be off-putting.
Although your fear might not always relate to something we can change, we will if we can alter anything we do or take your treatment at your pace.
Book Your Appointment at a Quiet Time of Day
If possible, arrange to come and see us in the quietest part of the day. Please speak to our team to work out the best time that works for you.
We do everything we can to make the environment of the entire clinic as calm as possible. Unfortunately, if it’s busy in the waiting room, you might find every little sound irritates you when you feel anxious.
Bring Noise Cancelling Headphones
Blocking out the sounds around you can help you focus and remain calm. Wearing noise-cancelling headphones is a great way to do this. This can help in the waiting room and during your appointment.
We’ll work a way of communicating with you so you can enjoy your favourite music.
Bring a Friend
Having someone you trust with you when you’re anxious can help. This could be your partner, best friend, or family member. Pick someone you know is empathetic and reassuring.
Sometimes just knowing they are there or hearing their voice when you are anxious is soothing.
Take a Deep Breath
Mindful breathing is a great way to bring your nervous system into balance when anxiety kicks in.
Breathe in slowly over the count of four, hold your breath for four seconds, and then exhale over the same length of time. Repeat this technique until you feel a little calmer.
Speak to Your Doctor
Anxiety is a treatable medical condition. If it’s having a deep impact on your life, your doctor may offer medication. In some cases, they can also refer you for talking therapy.
When your phobias harm your life, reach out and get support.
Nervous Patients at Harley Private Dental
Here at Harley Private Dental, we welcome and support nervous patients. We want you to get the treatment you need, but we want you to feel comfortable doing so.
Talk to our friendly team today and schedule your appointment.
