Anxious Patients
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We see plenty of nervous dental patients from across Plymouth, so if you feel nervous about visiting the dentist or hygienist you are not alone. One in four of us are scared of the dentist, often due either to a negative past dental experience, embarrassment about our teeth and mouth or fear of pain or the unknown. In some, that fear is so intense that it is classed as dental phobia, which can cause panic attacks and severe anxiety at even the thought of a trip to surgery.
Many people feel anxious about visiting the dentist. Negative experiences, fear of pain, or embarrassment can make dental visits very stressful.
At Larkham House Dental Practice, we understand and support anxious patients every day.
Our focus is on providing exceptional care for dental patients who experience dental phobia. Our compassionate and knowledgeable team will have open conversations with you in a comfortable and calming atmosphere to address your anxieties. We make sure to present you with all the available options and thoroughly explain your treatment plan, including costs and steps involved, before proceeding with any procedures. Additionally, we implement signals to ensure you can easily communicate with us if you need to take a break during treatment.
If you haven’t seen a dentist for several years because of fear or anxiety, be reassured that you should find the experience more bearable nowadays.
Advances in technology have also improved dentistry. Treatment can now be completely painless. A numbing gel can also be used to numb your gums before an injection so you don’t feel the needle.
Visit Dental Fear Central for information on dental anxiety.
Topical numbing gels before injections
Advanced “no pain” dentistry techniques
Option to refer to Abbey Mead Dental & Implant Clinic for Sedation.
Use of your favourite music or audiobook
Agreed signal to pause treatment instantly
Gentle, paced approach
First appointment = just check-up, no drilling
Meet your dentist and voice your fears
Bring a friend for support
At Larkham House, we understand that some patients experience significant anxiety during dental visits, preventing them from getting the care they need. Dental anxiety is incredibly common, and recent surveys reveal just how widespread this concern is. According to a survey conducted by DentalPhobia.co.uk, as many as 53% of UK adults admit to feeling anxious about visiting the dentist, with 17% saying they experience extreme fear. Whether it’s due to a previous negative experience, fear of needles, or general dental phobia, rest assured you’re not alone—and we’re here to help.
That’s why we’re excited to announce that IV sedation is now available at our sister practice, Abbey Mead Dental & Implant Clinic, offering a more comfortable experience for patients who require it.
For patients at Larkham House Dental Practice who may benefit from IV sedation, we’ve made the referral process straight forward and efficient. Your dentist can refer by submitting a referral form on Abbey Mead Dental & Implant Clinic’s website.
Once referred, you will be invited to visit Abbey Mead Dental & Implant Clinic in Tavistock for a consultation. Then one of our Consultant Anaesthetists will assess to determine if IV sedation is appropriate. Throughout your care, we will keep you fully informed. Once treatment is completed, you will return to Larkham House for continued dental care with all necessary updates provided.
If you think you could benefit from IV sedation don’t hesitate to speak to your dentist or therapist. We’re here to ensure you receive the safest, most comfortable care possible.
Contact us today to learn more about the referral process or to discuss any specific patient needs.
