NERVOUS PATIENTS
Being "afraid of the dentist" may mean different things to different people. In fact, the vast majority of people are still a little nervous about visiting the dentist, even though modern dental treatment can be completely painless.
Some people have specific fears about actual areas of treatment - for example, they are scared that having a filling will hurt.
Some don't like the thought of being out of control.
Some worry about being treated as though they were on a production line.
Some find that sounds and smells bring back memories of bad experiences as a child.
Some worry about stories they have heard about other people's bad experiences.
Some don't like the idea of people working in their mouth.
Some people don't know why they are afraid, they just are!
Whatever the reason you are nervous of the dentist, it is important that you feel that the staff of a dental practice understands your fears and will treat you kindly and considerately.
At Coach House Dental Practice we are proud of our experience and success in helping nervous patients become confident about attending the dentist.
If you are nervous or afraid of the dentist, it is likely that you haven't been to the dentist in a while and you may be worried that you will need a lot of treatment. Rest assured that you will always be in control and you will decide what you can cope with at any one time.
The first thing to do is to make a check-up appointment by telephoning or visiting the practice. Please tell them that you are nervous and ask any questions you feel are important in order to put your mind at rest.
Your check-up appointment gives you the opportunity to meet the dentist and discuss your fears, without the worry of having treatment carried out. Once the dentist has had a look in your mouth and perhaps taken some x-rays, he or she will discuss what treatment, if any, you require. We are always happy to prioritise treatment and to book appointments based on what our patients feel able to cope with.
With all our patients, it is our aim to help you towards having a healthy mouth that stays healthy. If you have confidence in the dental team, attending the dentist will no longer be the ordeal it was. With the help of the dentist and the hygienist and a commitment by yourself to good home care, we can succeed in getting your mouth into good shape and there will be less for the dentist to do in the future.
There are some patients whose fear of the dentist is very severe. If you and your dentist feel it necessary, we can refer you to our sister practice, Cedar Clinic, where all necessary treatment can be carried out under IV Sedation.
