Dental phobia is a common issue that affects so many people, yet it can sometimes feel as though you are the only one who feels this way about visiting the dentist!
At Renmore Dental, we aim to do our absolute best to make our patients feel safe and comfortable- we really do understand how nerve wracking it can be!
We hope this guide helps those who may be new and nervous what to expect from a dental visit with us, and inspires you to take those first steps on your treatment journey.
#1 No need to be embarrassed
Sometimes just getting started is the hardest part- the anxiety and unease that people feel before going for that first dental exam can often be compounded by feelings of shame or embarrassment, especially if it has been a long time since your last dental visit; but rest assured there is absolutely no need to be embarrassed, no matter how long it has been.
Dwelling on the past and what you should or shouldn’t have done before now will not help; the most important thing to remember is that you are taking action in the present, and creating a smile that future you will be so grateful for!
#2 Step-by-step
If the process of booking an appointment feels a little overwhelming at first, try breaking it down into smaller tasks. For example, you can pop us an email or give us a call with some questions- even if you don’t wish to book just yet, it will help to familiarise yourself with the team, and clarify any concerns you have about treatment.
Remember, picking up the phone and making that first call, even just to enquire, is already something to be proud of.
#3 Do a practice run
Particularly for new patients, going to an unfamiliar place can add to your dental anxiety- sometimes nervous patients prefer to register with us and book an appointment in person, or even just call in to ask some questions.
This will give you a chance to have a look around and get used to the environment, without the added pressure of an appointment. Then when your appointment day arrives, you are familiar with the space, where to go and who you might see on the day.
#4 Give yourself time
If you are already anxious about visiting the dentist, the stress of rushing to an appointment is even worse! Try to allow plenty of extra time for yourself to arrive, fill out any forms required, and get settled before your scheduled time slot.
There is no problem with coming in earlier to give yourself a little breathing room; we always aim to create a welcoming and relaxing space while you wait.
#5 Create your ideal environment
Our clinicians will be happy to help you in creating your preferred environment for treatment- you may want music, or none at all, you may want each step of treatment explained, or to use earphones throughout to minimise noise.
Don’t be afraid to communicate your needs to your clinician so that they can tailor their treatment to you. You can ask for more frequent rest breaks if needed, or even bring along a friend or family member to accompany you during the appointment- whatever will make things easier for you, we will do our very best to accommodate.
#6 Keep up the momentum!
Your dental exam is a fantastic first step, and often the hardest- if further work is required, we would recommend getting your next date booked, even if it’s later down the line. Building on the momentum of your first visit and getting another date in the diary will have you well on your way to overcoming dental anxiety, and before you know it you will have created a much healthier smile for your future self!
Should you have any questions for our patient care team, we would be delighted to hear from you! Get in touch on 091 757 678 or email info@renmoredental.ie.