What might be discussed?

 Your main concern What are you most apprehensive about: The drill? The injection? Stories you have heard about some procedures? Or, possibly just “the whole experience”. Once specific concerns are identified you and your dentist can develop strategies to cope with them.

Your past experiences

Most apprehensive patients have had a difficult experience or are intimately aware of the experiences of someone close to them. Times and treatment methods have changed. These past experiences may or may not be relevant to your current situation. Getting the facts about your particular needs can save a lot of needless worry.

Coping strategies for dealing with treatment
There are many and varied ways of overcoming apprehension as a barrier to good dental health. Things such as time of day and length of your appointments should be discussed. You may want someone to accompany you during treatment for support. It is important to develop a signal to use if you need to stop treatment when you need a break.

Some patients find the more they know about their treatment the easier it is for them. Others find the information upsetting and want to know as little as possible. For some people, the barriers are too high and too difficult. Medications to relax or sedate you may be required. These are just a few of the issues to be discussed before treatment begins to determine what will work best for you.

Delaying the inevitable For a variety of reasons coming late and missing appointments is very common amongst apprehensive patients. Unfortunately, this can lead to treatment dragging out over time; a deterioration of the teeth and gums as active disease goes unattended, leading to needing more treatment; and fees for the lost and additional time. In general, making a bad situation worse and easily avoided. People who overcome their fear of dental care realize benefits beyond their dental health. Many are justly proud of this difficult accomplishment and can’t wait to brag to others.

To dispel your fears, talk to your dentist. We care about you and your teeth.

Are you still afraid of the dentist?

Try meeting your fear face to face. See your dentist regularly.