Coping With Your Fear Of The Dentist

Managing dental anxiety in Tunbridge Wells.

It is thought that around 10% of the UK population suffer from odontophobia, a significant fear of the dentist. This does not necessarily mean that they are afraid of any pain they might feel, but just the thought of even walking through the door of a dentist’s practice can cause their anxiety levels to rise.

It would be unrealistic to think that the majority of patients actually enjoy a visit to their local dentist; the fact is that relatively few people do. However, here at Calverley Dental in Tunbridge Wells, we do all that we can to ensure that you receive any necessary care and attention in an environment we try to make as relaxing as possible. Below, we offer some ideas on how you can also help to reduce any anxiety associated with your visit.

Talk to us

It is essential that you let us know that you have a fear of the dentist. Our team are very sympathetic to this and will take extra special care to look after you during your visit. Often, a relaxed and friendly environment and a simple chat can play a big role in reducing anxiety.

Understand what is happening

Although patients may not wish to know the finer details of their procedure, many do find that knowledge of what is happening really helps. There are sounds that you might hear, depending on the treatment you are receiving, which are unusual, and potentially scary as they are so close to the auditory senses. Just knowing that these are normal sounds and nothing to be feared, can be of help.

The dental drill

We are always happy to explain what our equipment does if you wish to know. The drill is one of the sounds that most people dread and the ‘whining’ sound, so disliked by many, actually occurs due to the high speed at which the drill rotates. This makes it more effective, enabling the procedure to be completed as quickly and effectively as possible; something every anxious patient wants.

Stay in control

If you have explained to our Tunbridge Wells dentists that you are anxious about the treatment you are due to receive, they will pre-arrange signals that you can make during the treatment to show that you are feeling uncomfortable. A not uncommon fear, for example,  is that you can’t breathe or swallow during the procedure. By using an agreed hand signal, the treatment can be halted for a few seconds to allow you to recompose yourself.

Relax

Try not to tense your muscles and grip on to the chair. Many people do this in the subconscious belief that it will stop any pain from being felt. There is probably some inbuilt reason why we do this, but it doesn’t really work. You may feel some minor discomfort during an invasive procedure, but pain is very rare and it is more often the anticipation of pain which causes the anxiety in the first place.

Distract yourself where possible

Some people manage to picture themselves in a remote place such as a beach as a distraction technique. If this works for you, then do use it. However, some people find the gap between the fiction and the reality of what is actually happening, makes this an unrealistic option for them. For these patients, we suggest something which actively uses your brain; for example, if you are learning a language, count, in your head, in your chosen language. This type of thinking may help to switch your focus away from your treatment.

Whatever you do, please do not avoid your anxieties simply by not seeing a dentist. This is a recipe for disaster and may well result in the need for an emergency dental appointment when you find yourself in pain. Most early stage intervention is relatively comfortable, and regular check ups at the Calverley Dental Practice, along with good oral health care at home,  should mean that we are able to keep any treatment to a minimum.

If you are a nervous patient, living in the Tunbridge Wells area, we are more than happy to see you. Why not call our receptionists to arrange an initial appointment where you can discuss any anxiety and oral health needs with one of our calm and friendly dentists.

Please call the Calverley Dental Practice today on 01892 543 898.