A large number of people suffer from some degree of anxiety when a visit to the dentist is due. Dental anxiety is real, and it affects people of all ages and backgrounds. Some patients are confident in every other area of life but still feel their stomach tighten at the thought of sitting in a dental chair.
Unfortunately, this anxiety can lead some patients to avoid treatment for months or even years. Patients often cope with discomfort far longer than they need to, simply because they are too worried to book an appointment. By the time they finally book an appointment, a small and manageable problem has sometimes become more complex.
Modern dentistry is very different from what many people remember. Equipment is more refined and anaesthetics are more reliable. Appointments at our Catford dental practice can be structured in a way that feels calm rather than rushed. Just as importantly, there is now much greater recognition that emotional comfort matters just as much as clinical skill.
There is usually a reason behind dental anxiety. For some, it is a difficult childhood experience. For others, it is the fear of pain, the sound of the drill, or the feeling of not being in control. Some patients also feel embarrassed about the condition of their teeth and worry that they will be judged.
Patients of the Rushey Green Dental Practice can be assured that judgement has no place in our clinic. Teeth can be affected by many things including genetics, diet, medication and general health. Life is busy, and sometimes personal oral care slips down the list of priorities. When you come to see us, the focus is on improving your oral health from this point forward.
If your anxiety is mild to moderate, there are practical steps that can help.
Talk to us openly. If we know you are nervous, we can adapt. We can explain what we are doing before we begin and we can agree on a clear signal so that you can pause treatment at any time. Knowing you are in control often reduces tension significantly.
Take slow, steady breaths. Anxiety tends to cause shallow breathing, which can increase feelings of panic. Slow breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth helps calm the body. It sounds simple, but it is surprisingly effective.
Choose the right time of day. Some patients prefer early morning appointments so they do not spend the day worrying. Others feel calmer in the afternoon. A short conversation about timing can make a difference.
Start with a consultation only. If you have not attended for some time, you may prefer to begin with an examination and discussion rather than treatment on the same day. Taking things step by step can help confidence build gradually.
For some individuals, anxiety runs much deeper. There may be a genuine phobia, a strong gag reflex, or previous traumatic experiences. In these situations, reassurance alone is not enough and conscious sedation can be used to help you through your treatment.
We offer our nervous patients conscious sedation via both intravenous (IV) sedation or oral sedation in the form of a tablet that is taken at a time before the treatment which will be advised by one of our sympathetic Catford dentists. These will allow you to receive treatment in a relaxed state but also fully awake so that you can communicate with the dentist if required.
IV sedation is administered via a vein in your hand or arm. The sedative medication is given gradually, allowing the level of relaxation to be carefully controlled.
With oral sedation, medication is taken in tablet form before your appointment. This produces a relaxed state by the time treatment begins. It can be particularly helpful for patients who feel anxious well before arriving at the clinic. It is also suitable for certain types of procedures where a lighter level of sedation is appropriate.
Before any sedation is provided, we carry out a detailed medical assessment to ensure it is suitable for you. Clear instructions are given in advance, and after treatment you will need a responsible adult to accompany you home. You should not drive or return to work for the rest of that day.
Sedation can be helpful if you have avoided dental care for many years due to fear, if you require lengthy or complex treatment, or if previous attempts at treatment have been too distressing. For many patients, it provides a turning point. Once urgent problems are addressed under sedation, future visits often feel less daunting.
Dental anxiety is nothing to be ashamed of and it's a common and understandable response. What matters is finding a way through it so that your oral health does not suffer.
To find out more about our sedation options, why not contact us by calling the Rushey Green Dental Practice today on 020 8314 5066.
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