Top tips to help with pre-dentist visit nerves

Do you get pre-dentist visit nerves? Well, you're not alone. JOE's Dental Expert, Robert Molloy of Dublin dental practice Redmond Molloy, looks at how you can calm those nerves.

By Robert Molloy

Hi Robert. I have got a few broken teeth and one really hurts whenever I eat but I am really nervous about the dentist – is there any way to help me deal with the nerves?

John O’Connor, Portlaoise.

Hi John,

Thanks for getting in touch.

I’ve always found that a problem shared is a problem halved. So just tell your dentist you’re a tad nervy before you start and that way you’re all singing from the same hymn-sheet. You will also pick up a few pointers from the following tips:

1. Share your fear with our dentists and receptionists - explaining your anxiety generally leads to a straightforward solution, where we can change appointment times to better suit, or just give you a moment to compose yourself etc.

2. Ask your dentists to give you an overview of the whole procedure. For some, a running commentary works so you are sure about what is happening at every stage. We also have intra-oral cameras, so you can ask to see whats going on.

3. Ensure you have a good relationship with your dentist, if you don't, find a dentist you feel comfortable with. You are the one who is in charge, so vote with your feet.

4. Distractions can help - if you fear the noises that you associate with the dentist then ask can you listen to your own music, dock your own iPod or just pop your headphones on, anything that makes the experience more pleasant and less fearful is a good thing.

5. Ask your dentists if you can raise your hand if you want them to stop - that way you are in control.

6. Don't be afraid to ask your dentists about pain relief, all procedures can be carried out totally painlessly when the anaesthetic has made the area numb

7. Choose a time to go to your dentists when you are not rushed or under another pressure - anxiety breeds anxiety. Getting treatment at 8 in the morning will stop you thinking about it for the day.

8. Become a regular attendee. Don't let the gaps between visits get too big. If you visit every six months, you're far less likely to need complex work. Remember: prevention is better - and cheaper - than cure. At our practice we can text you to remind you of your appointment in advance, anything to maker it easier and your dentist may do the same.

9. Bring a friend or relative and ask your dentist if they can come into the surgery with you. A friendly face, someone to give you a second opinion - all these can help with your fears.

10. Do not let your fear stop you from going for a routine check-up. Your dentists can just give you the diagnosis, so you can find out exactly what treatment you require, and its up to you to decide over what time frame you would like to have the treatment completed.

Redmond Molloy is a well renowned dental practice based in Dublin, with offices in Santry, Sutton, Balbriggan and at Grand Canal Quay. For more details, check out www.redmondmolloy.ie or mail [email protected].