Hi. I have always terrified of the dentist ever since I can remember. When I was a kid, we had the meanest dentist ever, so no one has to guess at why I am so nervous about going. Nothing has changed. I had an appointment last Thursday for regular exam and cleaning. I was shaking through the exam even though the hygienist is nice. I am not totally comfortable with my dentist. He is just okay. He came into the room to examine my teeth and when he reclined the chair, I couldn’t help it but I wet my pants and the chair and it trickled on the floor. OMG I was so embarrassed that I started crying. Well the hygienist was trying to console me, but my dentist just shook his head and asked me if it’s really that bad. Of course it’s that bad or I would not have let go on myself! I cannot go back to that office. Never. How can I get over my fear? H.L. (not my real initials so any one could every find out it’s me)
H.L. – We respect your privacy. There are many dental patients like you who had traumatic experiences in childhood that affect how they view dental appointments as adults. We see many fearful patients at Great Smile Dental.
It’s good that you have decided not to return to that dental office. It sounds as if you needed to find a different dentist anyway, who is compassionate and sensitive to the needs of fearful patients.
You may be surprised if you ask around, that you have friends, acquaintances, or relatives who are fearful about dental appointments. Some of them may be able to give you a recommendation on a compassionate, caring dentist. If you can’t get a recommendation, search the Internet for dentists who like seeing fearful patients. Then check references or patient comments about that dentist.
You might find that the dentist has a calming manner to help you relax, or mild sedation medication may be needed in advance of your appointment.
This post is sponsored by Port St. Lucie dentist Dr. Aaron Schamback.