Treating Anxious Patients

Fear of going to the dentist is common, and nobody needs to feel ashamed of it. With us you may say so openly. We then adjust the treatment to your pace.

How fear turns into a cycle

People who are afraid put the appointment off. Over time, a small problem area often turns into larger damage. If you then come in with pain, the treatment takes more effort, and the fear grows. This creates a cycle that is hard to break on your own. It can usually be broken with a calm appointment at which nothing happens that you do not want.

What we do differently

We plan more time for you. We explain every step before we take it, and we only begin once you agree. Beforehand we agree on a signal: you raise your hand, and we stop. That way you keep control over what happens and when there is a break.

A first appointment without treatment

The first appointment may be short and may take place without any treatment. You see the rooms, get to know us and we talk with each other in a calm setting. You tell us what you find unpleasant, and together we plan what a next step could look like. Many patients find this a good way to start.

How we keep discomfort low

Before any treatment where you might feel something, we numb the area locally. We first make the injection site insensitive with a gel. Please tell us during the treatment as soon as you notice anything. We then wait and top up the anaesthetic.

In some cases support with medication is sensible, and we clarify that together beforehand.

Tell us as soon as you call

You may say on the telephone that you are afraid. For us this is not a minor detail but important information. We then plan your appointment differently from the start, with more time and a quiet time of day. Call us if you like. We will listen to you.