Nervous patients

In some cases, previous traumatic dental treatments may lead to anxiety, fear or even phobia.

These might include:

• Negative childhood experiences.
• Feeling out of control.
• Fear of the unknown.
• Embarrassment about the condition of teeth and gums.
• Fear of dental instruments, noise or smells.

Putting off treatments or missing appointments can lead to neglected teeth, poor oral health and sometimes toothache and dental pain requiring more treatment.

That’s why helping nervous patients feel at ease and build confidence is a priority for the whole patient care team at the practice.

We build relationships based on trust, and we’re here to help you overcome issues of dental anxiety and optimise your oral health together.

A gentle approach for nervous patients

You can be assured that we’re good listeners and are always attentive to your concerns. Often, we’ve found that a confident patient is a well-informed patient.

Step-by-step, non-technical explanations of a procedure can be reassuring and relieve anxiety. We’ll always take the time to explain your treatment, giving you as much or as little detail as you wish.

You’ll find the original Observatory building has been carefully transformed into a comfortable and welcoming environment designed to make you feel at ease.

If you wish, you’re welcome to come in for a chat to meet our team before you even commit to an appointment.

We’re also able to offer a range of relaxation and calming techniques, including relaxing music and oils to mask any clinical smells.

The modern techniques we use are specially designed to reduce discomfort, minimise noise and vibration, creating a more relaxed environment.

Once you recognise that you may have some degree of dental anxiety or phobia, the first step is to contact the practice and let your dentist know how you feel.

We’re here to help!

Is sedation an option?

For some patients, a little extra help is key to a calm and positive experience.

If you suffer from significant dental anxiety, require extensive treatment, or have a strong gag reflex, we can provide sedation to help you feel deeply relaxed during your appointment.

Sedation can make having your dental procedures easier, particularly in the case of:

• Acute teeth or gum sensitivity.
• Difficulty keeping your mouth open.
• Complex oral surgery or multiple dental procedures.

Sedation is administered by a qualified anaesthetist, applied intravenously (IV) into your hand or arm, or through the inhalation of gas. While you remain awake and responsive, it helps you feel very drowsy and relaxed. Many patients find they have little to no memory of the procedure afterwards. Although sedation makes you feel calm, we will still use a local anaesthetic to ensure the treatment area is completely numb.

For your safety, if you choose to have sedation, you must be accompanied by a responsible adult who can take you home after your appointment. The effects of the sedation can sometimes take up to 24 hours to wear off, during which time patients must not drive, operate machinery, smoke or drink alcohol. Some medical conditions may not be compatible with sedation, so your dentist will require your medical details before prescribing a sedative.

Please feel free to talk with us about any concerns you have. We’re confident that we can help you find a comfortable journey to a healthy smile.