How to manage fear of the dentist
Originally published
Fear of dental treatment can make even booking an appointment difficult. You may worry about pain, injections, gagging or feeling unable to stop what is happening. Past experiences can also affect how you feel. You do not need to dismiss those fears before asking for help.
Tell the practice when you book that you feel anxious. If speaking is difficult, you can write down what worries you and what has helped before. This gives the team a starting point for planning your care with you.
Talk about what you need
Some people feel better with a step-by-step explanation; others prefer fewer details. Tell your dentist which approach suits you. Agree a stop signal, such as raising your hand, and discuss breaks before treatment begins.
Ask what is planned for the first appointment. Depending on your needs, it may be possible to start with a conversation and a gentle examination. The dentist should explain any proposed examination or treatment and obtain your consent. You can ask questions and say when you need to pause.
Pain relief and dental equipment
Local anaesthetic is used to numb the area being treated. Your dentist can check that it is working before starting; tell them if you feel pain during treatment so they can reassess. Pressure, movement and sound may still be noticeable even when the area is numb.
Our practice offers computer-controlled local anaesthetic delivery. This controls the delivery of the anaesthetic, but it is still an injection and does not guarantee a completely sensation-free experience. Numbness can continue after the appointment. Follow the advice about eating and protecting your lip, cheek or tongue until sensation returns. Our guide to computer-controlled anaesthesia explains more.
Other equipment may help with particular procedures. A scanner can replace conventional impressions in some situations, and magnification can help the dentist see small details. Neither is a treatment for dental phobia in itself. Ask which techniques are appropriate for the care you need.
Take manageable steps
You and your dentist can agree a pace that allows you to build confidence while addressing your dental needs. This might mean getting used to the chair, having an examination, then planning a short treatment appointment. The steps should be agreed with you, rather than booking visits as often as possible regardless of how you feel.
Regular reviews can help identify problems, but they cannot guarantee that you will never develop decay or need treatment. The interval should reflect your oral health and the plan you have agreed.
If anxiety prevents you from receiving care, ask about further support. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can help some people manage dental phobia. Your dentist or GP can discuss suitable services. Sedation may be considered for some patients after assessment; availability and referral arrangements vary, so do not assume that every practice offers it.
Helping your child feel comfortable
Early, calm visits can help a child become familiar with dental care. Arrange their first visit when their first teeth appear and let the team know about any worries. Use simple, neutral language and give them room to ask questions.
If you are anxious yourself, tell the dental team so they can support you both. This is not about blaming parents, and early visits cannot guarantee that a child will never feel afraid. See our guide to a child’s first dental visit.
If you already have pain
Do not wait for your fear to disappear before seeking advice about toothache or swelling. Contact a dentist for an assessment and explain that you need support with anxiety. If you cannot get urgent dental care, NHS 111 can advise you. Swelling that makes breathing, swallowing or speaking difficult needs emergency care at A&E; call 999 if you need an ambulance.
To discuss an appointment and what would help you feel more in control, contact our team.