Nervous about the dentist? We'll take it at your pace.
Whether it's a bad experience, the sounds, the needle or just how long it's been, you can tell us. We'll explain everything first, go at your speed, and stop whenever you ask.
How we help nervous patients
- We talk first. Tell us what worries you when you book or when you arrive. We'll listen, and plan the visit around it.
- We explain each step before we do it, so nothing comes as a surprise.
- You're in control. Raise your hand at any time and we'll stop straight away.
- Something else to focus on. Listen to your own music, or watch TV with headphones, while we work.
- Properly numb. If you need an injection, we check the area is numb before we start.
- Short visits. We keep appointments as short as we can, and you can ask for a longer, quieter one without saying why.
- Sedation if you need it. If you need more help to relax, ask us about sedation and we'll go through the options.
Your first visit
Mention you're nervous when you book online or call us on 07 3162 8755. At the visit we'll talk about what's worrying you, have a look, and tell you what we find in plain words. Nothing happens without your say-so, and you'll know the cost before any treatment starts.
Putting it off usually makes things harder: by the time a tooth hurts, the fix tends to be bigger. Coming in now often means simpler treatment. See what happens at your first visit.
Nervous children
We take it slowly and try whatever helps your child feel comfortable before any treatment starts, and there's a Kids Zone to wait in. See children's dentistry.
Care after domestic or family violence
A dental visit can feel hard if someone has hurt you. You don't have to tell us what's happened. If you'd like to, you can, and we'll listen.
- We'll explain what we're going to do before we do it, and check you're comfortable.
- You can ask us to stop at any time. Raise your hand and we'll stop straight away.
- You can bring someone you trust with you.
If your teeth or mouth have been hurt: broken, loose or knocked-out teeth and injuries to your mouth can be treated here. If it's urgent, call us on 07 3162 8755; see what to do in a dental emergency. If you're badly hurt, go to a hospital emergency department.
Cost: please talk to us about cost. If a support organisation has referred you, we can send them a quote for your treatment. If you have a concession card, you can also get free public dental care: see our payment options.
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Questions people ask
Is it normal to be scared of the dentist?
Yes, very. Plenty of people put off the dentist because of a bad experience, the sounds, worry about pain, or embarrassment about how long it's been. You don't need to explain why. Just tell us you're nervous and we'll go from there.
I'm embarrassed about the state of my teeth. Will you judge me?
No. We see teeth in every condition, and there are no judgements here. The hardest part is usually making the booking. After that, we'll look, explain what we find in plain words, and work out the next step together.
Can I be sedated?
For some people and some treatments, yes. Ask us, and Dr Archie will go through whether it suits you and what's involved.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes. You can bring someone you trust into the room, or ask for someone not to come in.
Call 07 3162 8755 and tell us you're nervous. You can ask for a longer, quieter appointment; you don't have to say why.