How to overcome dental anxiety
Not many of us look forward to a check-up with the dentist (dentists included!). Even with today’s pain-free techniques, it can be hard to relax with someone peering into your mouth.
Sometimes, though, dental anxiety is so severe that it stops you from visiting the dentist entirely, which can have big consequences for your oral health.
Don’t ghost your dentist
It’s your dentist’s job to spot the early signs of tooth decay, gum disease and more serious conditions such as mouth cancer. With regular check-ups we can hopefully catch things early – when solutions are usually less invasive and more affordable.
If you have plaque or tartar, for example, we might refer you to our hygienist and ask you to step up your brushing routine. Without treatment, you could be faced with tooth decay, fillings and a root canal in severe cases.
How we can help
If you’re feeling anxious about coming to see us (or downright terrified), let us know. You’re welcome to pop in for a tour of the clinic and we’ll carefully explain every step of your treatment.
Your journey will start with a free consultation*. We’ll take some photos and X-rays, and gently examine your teeth and gums. Throughout your treatment, we’ll move at a pace that suits you and do everything we can to put you at ease.
Some tips to stay calm
- Choose a dentist you feel comfortable with.
- Bring a friend or family member to your appointment.
- Book your appointments in the morning, so you don’t feel anxious all day.
- Agree a hand signal with your clinician, so you can ask them to pause.
- Bring some headphones to help you tune out the sounds of the dental surgery.
If your anxiety is extreme, talk to your GP. They’ll be able to discuss other strategies to help, for example hypnotherapy and medication.
Dental anxiety and orthodontics
As one of London’s busiest brace providers, we’ve helped thousands of people to straighten their teeth, and it’s not uncommon for patients to feel a little nervous at their first appointment.
Orthodontic treatment has changed a lot over the years. Headgear is long gone, and we no longer take impressions using gloopy alginate. There’s no need for needles or anaesthetic, and the drills we use are so gentle they can’t penetrate tooth enamel.
“I chose to have Invisalign treatment after having braces as a teenager and not wearing my retainers. I left it until I was getting married to sort it out and I’m now completing my treatment at Sensu, I only wish I had done it sooner as it has given me more confidence to smile. I have nothing but praise for Dr Krupal Shah and his team. They’ve helped me overcome my fear of dentist.”
Don’t let your fear of the dentist stop you from having a smile you love. Contact our friendly team today.