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I’m nervous about seeing the dentist — my teeth really need a lot of work

Did you lose a tooth last Christmas? Haven’t had a check-up in seven years, or maybe your teeth are gradually turning grey. If you are embarrassed about your teeth you’re in the right place. Leading busy lives leads to putting things off. Like visiting the dentist, the longer the gap, the harder it gets to make an appointment. We always want to support you and your oral health journey without judgement or guilt.

Dentists are excellent with teeth, and while they are not trained psychologists, they are very experienced at not judging your decision-making when you let your teeth reach a point where feelings of shame and embarrassment start to surface.

It’s our job to help. It’s why dentists became dentists, they love all kinds of teeth, even the imperfect ones.

Baby steps to a radiant smile

The two main reasons given for avoiding the dentist are anxiety and fear. The biggest trigger for a change in those feelings is when a major tooth issue happens.

Dentists are professionals who have encountered and dealt with a wide range of situations. Understanding the importance of oral healthcare is the first step. Not waiting another moment is the second step, and a phone consultation with a dentist might be a third step, and the best way to get started.

If you are nervous about seeing the dentist, the friendly nib Dental team is available to discuss your concerns and is there to support you, not judge you if your oral health needs help.

Four helpful ideas to get over the hurdle

Here are a few suggestions on how to overcome embarrassment or anxiety of visiting a dentist.

  • Chat group – Talk to your close circle of friends and family; their support and encouragement will be invaluable.
  • Communication – Discuss your concerns with a dentist and their staff before starting treatment and remember to ask lots of questions. You can let us know you are nervous before your appointment, and we will take extra care to walk you through the process.
  • Start small – If you haven’t seen a dentist in a while, start with a simple check-up and then progress to a hygiene clean.
  • Relaxation techniques – Deep breathing and listening to music or a podcast with headphones are great distractions.

Sedation – We offer sleep dentistry in centre through nitrous oxide (happy gas) or IV sedation. This can help manage dental anxiety or help you with more extensive dental work. Some practitioners also offer general anaesthetic for surgical procedures but these need to be performed in a hospital with an anaesthetist. Read about our dental anxiety options here.

Your nervous about seeing the dentist, but you’ve got this

By taking gradual steps towards your new fabulous smile, you can overcome embarrassment and anxiety and finally get the dental help you need and deserve.

Finding a supportive dental practice that truly cares about your dental health and overall wellbeing will help you achieve a brighter future with newfound confidence and self-esteem.

We will leave you with one last bit of motivation. Your oral health is worth prioritising; if neglected, it can cause other health issues. Be bold and brave and book an appointment today.

Resources:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4790493/

https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/dental-care/too-embarrassed-to-see-dentist

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We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands where we live, learn and work. View our Reconciliation Action Plan

*For eligible nib members. 100% back on preventative check-ups depends on your level of cover and available limits. Services must be provided by a dentist in nib’s No Gap network and are subject to standard waiting periods, annual and service limits. Check-ups include examination, scale and clean, fluoride, and x-rays if needed.