I find going to the dentists extremely nerve wrecking

Q. Hello, I find going to the dentists extremely nerve wrecking and just can’t seem to bare it. Because of this I have not been to see the dentist for nearly ten years and am so embarressed about my teeth. The problem started twenty years ago when I found out I needed a brace and had to have 4 teeth out ready for it. When it became time to have it done I had the injections and was told to wait outside with my mum whilst my gums went numb. I had 4 injections and waited, I got called back in but when the dentist tried to remove the teeth I could still feel it. He gave me another four injections and the treatment went ahead. This was simply the worst experience I have endured and to this day still have nightmares. I have had some fillings since but found this really upsetting, so now I’m left with wonky teeth which are not very bright, my gums sometimes bleed when brushing and I have noticed small holes appearing in a few teeth. I have been telling myself to do something about it for years and even joined our dentist at work but cannot bring myself to go. I am now a father of three beautifull children and when I tell my oldest son he has to go to the dentist he asks me to take him. I make excuses and his mum takes him. I just feel pathetic and get so down about my teeth and smile I hate myself and and how I am about this. Please I need some advice as to where to find a dentist to sort this out, I have been told by friends I can be knocked out and treated…. I would travel to the ends of the world just to be able to smile in public again. I don’t know what to do. Sorry to go on and thank you for your time and patience.

A.

You have a severe anxiety but it does sound like you are getting ready to make a move. Some things we can do to help.

  1. listen to what you are saying, only doing treatments you are comfortable with
  2. building your trust & confidence in planned stages
  3. previsit tablet sedation to help you make through the door of the practice
  4. Concentrated IV sedation if you want to be ” out of it” for 30-60 mins of treatment.

If you want to discuss what we can tailor to you contact our Birmingham practice for a Phone chat.

If you are not near Birmingham you can try a dental fear website with local listings

Good Luck
Dr Rob Tennet

Dr Rob Tennet St Johns Dental Practice 18 Bennett’s Hill, Birmingham, B2 5QJ Web: www.e-dentalpractice.co.uk

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