Nervous patients

If you're nervous about seeing a dentist you're a member of a very big club.  Surveys reveal that over 70% of people have some degree of anxiety related to dental treatment whilst a quarter of the population positively dread it and would rather be anywhere else than sitting in a dental surgery.  All of which means we understand your fear and will do all we can to help you relax. 

Here are a few hints and tips to help you relax ...

• Book an early appointment then you won't spend all day worrying

• Bring a friend. Lots of patients bring a friend to support them and the dentist will usually let your friend accompany you into the surgery for moral support!

• Remember, if it's your first appointment, then unless it's an emergency there won't be any treatment done. Use the time to get to know us, have a look round and chat to the team. As everything becomes more familiar, so you'll find it easier to relax.

• Bring your headphones and listen to some relaxing music or talk radio to distract you while you're waiting.

• AVOID coffee, alcohol and, if you smoke, cigarettes. Whilst all these substances are associated with relaxation they actually dehydrate us and can make us more anxious.

• Start the day with a hearty breakfast. This will bolster your blood-sugar levels and help you fight jittery nerves.

• Remember, YOU will ALWAYS be in control!  Nobody is going to touch you or do anything without YOUR consent and you can agree a 'Stop' word or action with the dentist.  If something doesn't feel quite right, simply raise your hand and the dentist will pause or stop whatever he or she is doing.

• If it's all to much and you need treatment we can refer you to clinics that offer sedation.

Have you got any tips on how to fight nerves? We'd love to share them.  Please send them to practicemanager@hudsonsdentalcare.co.uk