How can I get past my aversion to dentists?

Question

It's been about 10 years since I've had work done, and my teeth and gums are in bad shape. But I can't find a dentist that doesn't act all judgemental when examining me, and make me feel like some sort of worm for letting my teeth get so bad. I don't even mind the actual work geting done, if they use a sedative and proper anesthesia, but their "Tsk, tsk" attitude prevents me from even scheduling an appointment, causing my teeth to get even worse. It's a vicious circle! Why do dentists have to have the attitude?

Answer 1

Call 1-800-dentist and tell them what you are looking for. They will match you up. Also explain your situation when you make the appointment. Don't neglect your teeth another day. You will regret it.

Answer 2

I went to the dentist's on Monday after 18 years of not going (didn't have insurance, I'm 26 now) and I was really scared of what the dentist would say. Fortunately, my experience was awesome! I just explained over the phone, and again when I got there that I hadn't been for 18 yrs, and that I was looking forward to a healthy mouth after all this time. They were very kind and patient and understanding.
And after all that time all I had was one cavity (getting filled next week) and a partially cracked tooth. Granted I need 2 cleanings, but it's such a relief to do something about my teeth.
Go now, rather than later. Things can only get worse if you wait.
The dentist gets paid to "fix" you, so I would ignore any negative comments (if any). I think nowadays, dentists are more compassionate.
You won't regret going, believe me!

Answer 3

Call around and discuss your concerns with the staff. Arrange a consultation visit to just meet the staff/DDS. Maybe even try going to a DDS that offers pediatrics - they will be better at distraction. You can discuss the issue with a therapist or your Primary care physician and they can recommend a good DDS who will work with you. A good option might be to go to a vo-tech school and get the student DDS & hygienists to do your cleanings. It will be cheaper and you will have more doting dental care (because they are worried about grades, etc).

Lots of people have anxiety about going to the DDS. You are not alone. However, if you don't get the help you need you can make yourself really ill. When people make "tsk tsk" comments... redirect your thoughts to recognize they are not being personal attacks. I realize that is hard... I've had to learn how to do that too. I also find that it helps to do meditation and relaxation before (and during) visits. A good place to start is with a behavior therapist - they can help you learn to be more assertive about your needs, redirect the conversation towards what can be done to correct the problem and away from how bad it is, and deal with the anxiety that can cause dental visits to be so alarmingly "memorable".

A yr or so ago I tried tooth whitening… and developed VERY sensitive teeth = I now keep a bottle of Orajel in my pocket. (BTW if you have very bad gums or sensitive teeth: try adding a drop of Orajel onto the toothpaste before brushing to prevent any pain. This might make it easier to brush more regularly.) I use it before they start cleaning & make a point of discussing my pain threshold so they will be ready to add more numbing agent if it wears off.

Also, try to get a DDS who uses Sonic cleaning tools - they are less painful.

Answer 4

There is not a lot you can do I am afraid. I suggest while phoning around to price out your appointment-express how neglected your teeth are and how worried you are about it and see how they react that way. Either way you most likely will have to let the comments roll off your back because getting a healthy mouth so it doesnt create other health problems is more important that a snobby dentist.-good luck!!

Answer 5

Good suggestions, above.
Also, look in the yellow pages or dental referall service for a dentist who "caters to cowards"
This is an advertising code word that dentists use, meaning that they are welcoming and non-judgemental toward people who are particularly anxious, havn't been in a while, and their teeth show it.
I do'nt care too much for calling one's potential clients "cowards", just like I don't like the uses of the word "Dummies" in the "(topic) for Dummies" series of how-to books. But then, I'm an Aspie, and tend to take things very literaly. Most people, though, don't seem bothered by this, as evidenced by the popularity of these books and the accepted use of the phrase "we cater to cowards" in announcements of dental services.

Answer 6

Have a good friend recommend their Dentist, tell the Dentist and he will give you something like xanex to calm you down before you go. I have always hated the dentist but when I had to go I would just shut my eyes and not watch. Believe it or not...it works!

Answer 7

I'm a dentist.

Let me be completely honest with you.

We really don't give a damn what you do with your teeth and gums. We really don't. We want you to be healthy, and we're going to tell you when you've done something wrong (such as neglecting your teeth)--hence the "tzk tzk". But when you come to us with rotten teeth and bleeding gums, it doesn't phase us. Your choices do not affect us emotionally.

Why?

Because we see it all the time. Every day. You are no different.

Rather than worry about what your doctor will think to himself/herself, try to be on the same page as the doctor and worry about whether or not your mouth can be made healthy again.

Answer 8

find you a dentist that will let you wear headphones so you can listen to your favorite music,and one that will help you through each step, my dentist is great to me they know up front that I'm a big chicken and they are so good to me.

Answer 9

Just make it clear: You know you're derelict in your dental duty, you're trying to straighten things out, and criticism isn't what you're looking for.

What's cool is it's been so long since you visited one that it'll be like your first try.

Like aversion! Touched for the very first time...

heh

Answer 10

Anyone who refers to daytime soap operas as “the stories” puts me right at ease. I sat in the waiting room and played Candy Crush (oh you stupid irony) while waiting for the Dentalhygiene Zürich.See more:http://www.schwagerfrei.ch/.