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Many people feel anxious about going to the dentist. They may fear the possibility of pain or feel embarrassed because they have not been to the dentist for a long time. At Frankel Dental Care we understand these feelings and are sympathetic to patients who are nervous or who have a phobia. Don't be worried about telling us that you are nervous or frightened. Try contacting us, explain your concerns and ask us what help we can provide for nervous patients. It helps if you can identify which things make you nervous and let us know before you arrive for your appointment. Make an appointment for a time of day when you will have no other stresses. Do not book it when you know you have to be somewhere else shortly afterwards. Bring a friend with you for reassurance. Make sure you understand any treatment you need before you commit yourself. Always ask the dentist to explain it if you are unsure.
If you start going to the dentist while you have healthy teeth and visit the dentist regularly, you will usually need only an examination and scale and polish. This will allow you to get to know the dentist and the practice. If you go regularly, problems are likely to be spotted and treated early, so that extensive and complicated treated is avoided. The best way to maintain healthy teeth and gums is by brushing twice daily using fluoride toothpaste. Having a sensible diet avoiding sugary foods and drinks is also important.
It is very important to let the dentist know your fears. Many different aspects of going to the dentist can cause anxiety. Try and think about what it is you most dislike; knowing what makes you afraid can help you cope with it and will help the dentist to put you at ease. Things that patients regularly identify include: making an appointment, laying back in the dental chair, the smell of the dental surgery, having X-rays, having your teeth scaled and polished, having a local anesthetic injection, having a tooth drilled or the sound of the drill and having a tooth extracted. What you are afraid of might not be on this list; but whatever it is, you are not alone. If you think you know the reason for your fears, for example a bad experience as a child, tell the dentist.
We are able to listen to your anxieties and talk through your concerns. We can give you more control of what happens, such as suggesting you use a simple signal - like raising your hand - if you need to stop for a moment during treatment. There are a number of techniques which help you to relax, for example breathing techniques similar to those used in ante-natal classes. We try to provide as relaxing an atmosphere as possible and all of the staff are trained to make your visit as pleasant and comfortable as possible.
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