I'm 24 years old and I haven't been to the dentist since I was about 15. I've never had any problems with my teeth in the past, I never needed any fillings or anything when I was younger. The only thing I needed was three teeth extracted before I got braces.
Anyway, I know I really need to go to the dentist for a checkup because I haven't been in so long, but I'm too scared to go. Obviously, I'm not registered with one, so I'll have to find one privately since nowhere is registering NHS patients.
But I'm absolutely terrified. I'm really scared that I'll need loads of fillings because I haven't been for so long. And I can't really afford it if I DO need work done. I'm just so scared of the thought of being told I need fillings, and having the dentist drilling my teeth.
How can I get over my fear of going? Because I know I really have to go, but I don't want to!!!!
2006-06-08 04:10:01 · 13 answers · asked by Alicia W 1 in Health ➔ Dental
theres no easy way to get over a fear. the best thing to do is 2 ring up a dentist n explain that ur scared n they will make sure they register u with the friendliest dentist so that u feel as comfortable as possible. (i no they do this as my mum wrks in dentist surgery)
2006-06-08 04:14:56 · answer #1 · answered by vicki.lambie1@btinternet.com 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you're in Kent I can recommend a good one although he's just stopped being NHS.
I'm terrified of dentists (you know, the whole adrenalin rush, hot cold sweats, shaking thing) but this one is good. Like you, I hadn't been for years because of the bodge job done on me by a bad dentist when taking out a wisdom tooth. If you've looked after your teeth you'll be ok and if you had a problem you'd know about it.
Your best bet is to get a couple of recommendations from other people who don't like dentists which is how I got mine. You've just got to go and start getting them checked regularly to stop any problems from developing into nasty ones. Sometimes doctors can prescribe something but don't go down that route unless you REALLY have to. Take a friend or relative you trust the first time you go. But best of all, get a personal recommendation first.
2006-06-08 11:20:06 · answer #2 · answered by angel 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I know this isn't really any help, but I'm 24 and haven't gone since i was probably about 10, but my teeth have been bothering me for a while now. About 5 years ago I figured I should go and I didn't, and now they are even worse. My advice is just go now and have them looked at then take care of them and go to the dentist regularly.
I avoid the dentist like the plauge, but I have an appointment booked in an hour and a half. If I can do it, so can you!
Best of luck!
2006-06-08 14:58:20 · answer #3 · answered by xeronine 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just ask yourself why you are so afraid? I can think of lots of things more scary than dentists. What if you need a filling. Its not that painful and i won't last that long. Its with lots of thing once you have been you say to yourself well that was not so bad after all. thing about how good your teeth will look afterwards or think about some other nice things while you are in the dentist chair. You can do it.
2006-06-08 11:36:54 · answer #4 · answered by mercedeshoff 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I used to be scared of going to the dentist, until my teeth started hurting really badly and I really needed the dentist. Luckily, I was able to reregister with my NHS dentist and I haven't looked back.
You might feel scared at the moment, but believe me - when your teeth hurt as much as mine did at that time - you'll be glad to see that dentists chair.
The other reply saying to phone a dentist explaining your nerves is a good idea. All good dentists expect some people to be frightened, and will do their best to make you feel comfortable.
2006-06-08 15:35:56 · answer #5 · answered by nemesis 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you actually needed fillings you would probably have some pain in your teeth right now. If you've brushed your teeth regularly and flossed to remove debris between teeth then you will be praised by the dentist who will then proceed to give your teeth a special clean. I can assure you that you will enjoy that (so long as you are not too ticklish).
2006-06-08 11:19:41 · answer #6 · answered by FontOfNoKnowledge 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just take good care of your teeth. You can go for periodic cleanings and that should help prevent cavities too. When you go for a cleaning first you familiarize yourself with the dental clinic and the people there and a trust is built up. Maybe get a dental plan like Blue Cross ahead of time and you will have more coverage.
2006-06-08 11:13:37 · answer #7 · answered by ? 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I am also dentist phobic. What helps me is to keep saying over and over in my head...this does not hurt. I try as hard as I can to relax and stay calm by breathing steadily and putting my mind somewhere else. I also focus on the fact that you will be out of that chair and out of that office in the next hour. There is an end to it. I feel for you.
2006-06-13 05:29:46 · answer #8 · answered by Vivreici 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Brush your teeth regularly 3times a day ,,be careful not to eat too much candy,then there'll be no need to visit a dentist!!!
2006-06-08 11:24:54 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Darling, teeth pain is very very unbearable, don't wait till you get that pain you have to go now, immediately don't wait, tel your dentist to give you a suitable allergic, don't be afraid, my feeling assist you.
2006-06-08 11:18:53 · answer #10 · answered by a_ebnlhaitham 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋