Are you so anxious about the dentist that you keep putting it off? Does your anxiety leave you so panic-stricken and terrified that you avoid dental treatment altogether, even if you are in pain? If so, we can help.
We have a special interest in treating patients anxious about the dentist, many of whom come to us on referral from other practices. In fact, we have a dedicated team led by Rhys Gabe and they couldn’t be friendlier or more sympathetic!
Every year, Rhys and Sarah help hundreds of NHS and private patients overcome their dental fears and anxieties so that they can receive the treatment they need—be it an extraction, filling, implant, or even a simple check-up. Based on their success rate, they are confident they can help you, too!
“The first thing you should know is that we never undertake treatment on anxious patients at their first appointment” explains Sarah. “Instead, we’ll invite you to come and meet us for a chat. We’ll talk about why you are anxious, and there is usually a very good reason. Perhaps you’ve had a bad experience with a dentist in the past, or you are anxious about people invading your personal space. In most cases, we find listening to and understanding you is a big first step towards helping you to manage your fears.”
“We’ll then talk you through your problems and explain the different treatment options available to you” continues Sarah. “Where possible, we try to keep the first appointment simple – a check-up or oral hygiene treatment, so that you familiarise yourself with the practice, get to know us and build your confidence.
“We can offer a TLC (tender loving care) appointment for treatment, or if you need it, we can offer you sedation to help you relax – even for a basic examination.”
Inhalation sedation involves breathing in nitrous oxide through a mask placed just over your nose. It makes you feel calm and happy and is suitable for adults and children. IV sedation puts you into a deeper, relaxed state and is normally used in adults. Either way, you are conscious throughout your treatment and able to talk with Rhys or Sarah.
“Having talked through their fears with us, we construct a treatment plan based on the individual,” says Sarah. “Sedation can also help other problems faced during surgery, such as strong gag reflexes.”
Sarah and Rhys both agree that there is nothing more rewarding than helping patients who are anxious about the dentist receive the treatment they need. (Check out our reviews on Google for proof of their success!) So, if your dental anxiety or phobia leaves you feeling like you have no one to turn to, why not come in for a chat? You could be amazed at the relief you feel.
To book a TLC appointment, call reception on 01805 623657
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