Fear of the dentist is very common and does not need to keep you away from the chair. With clear information, a calm pace and an agreement on how you will communicate during treatment, the appointment becomes much easier.
Why we fear the dentist
Fear is rarely irrational. It usually starts from an unpleasant experience, often in childhood, or from the feeling of losing control when we lie back with our mouth open. At other times it is a fear of pain, of noise or simply of the unknown. Some people are embarrassed about the state of their teeth and put off the appointment until they are in pain.
This vicious circle has a cost: the longer the visit is delayed, the more complex the problem becomes, and the more complex it becomes, the greater the fear grows.
How we manage it at the practice
At our practice we emphasise prevention, correct diagnosis and scientific treatment of every case. We know that a visit can be accompanied by anxiety, which is why we try to make every appointment one of clear information, careful communication and respect for the patient's needs.
In practice this means that the steps are explained before they are carried out, that you can ask anything you like and that the aim is for you to feel safe and in control throughout the treatment. The practice provides general dentistry, periodontology, root canal treatment (in cooperation with a specialist endodontist), dental implants, prosthodontics, aesthetic restorations and preventive care, so that treatment can be managed as a whole.
How to prepare for your appointment
- Say it: tell us from the start that you are afraid. There is no shame in it and it helps the dentist adjust the pace.
- Bring information: recent X-rays, a list of the medication you take and details of your medical history.
- Agree on a signal: a hand signal, so that you can ask for a break whenever you need one.
- Choose the time: an appointment at a time when you are not in a hurry reduces anxiety.
- Breathing: slow, deep breaths with a longer exhale than inhale calm the body.
- Eat lightly: a light meal before the appointment helps, unless you are given other instructions.
What the first visit is like
The first visit does not need to include treatment. It is usually an introduction: a discussion of what concerns you, a clinical examination of the teeth and gums, X-rays where needed and information about the findings. At the end you know what is there, what can wait and what is needed straight away. Treatment starts only when you are ready and have understood the plan.
The problem of pain is addressed with local anaesthesia, which usually makes treatment painless. If you are afraid of the injection itself, you can say so, so that particular care is taken.
Why it is not worth waiting for the pain
Many dental problems, such as decay and periodontitis, cause no pain at first. When severe pain appears, the damage may already have progressed. A small filling today can become a root canal treatment tomorrow and an extraction later. Prevention and regular check-ups help to treat problems early and more conservatively, with fewer and shorter visits.
When not to wait
Contact the practice without delay if you have severe pain, swelling of the face or gums, fever, difficulty opening your mouth, a broken tooth or an injury. These do not go away on their own, and fear should not let them get worse.
Alternative and supporting approaches
Besides the calm approach and familiarisation in small steps, relaxation techniques, short sessions and good scheduling can help. For severe phobias, some patients benefit from psychological support alongside dental care. If you have concerns about your history or about medication, discuss them with the dentist before any treatment begins. Sedation is not performed at the practice; however, a specific anxiolytic medication is an option, after a discussion with the dentist.
For parents and companions
Fear often passes from generation to generation. When a parent talks about the dentist with fear or uses the dentist as a threat, the child remembers it. It helps to talk neutrally and positively and to prefer regular check-ups over visits only in emergencies, so that the practice becomes a familiar place. If you are accompanying someone who is afraid, your calm presence and patience with their pace are worth more than urging them on.
Frequently asked questions
Can I come to the dentist if I am very afraid?
Of course. Fear of the dentist is common and is addressed with a calm approach, an explanation of every step and gradual familiarisation.
Why shouldn't I wait until it hurts?
Many problems cause no pain at first. When severe pain appears, the damage may already have progressed and treatment may be more demanding.
What should I do before my first appointment?
It is a good idea to bring any recent X-rays, a list of medication and information about your medical history.
Do you accept emergency cases?
In case of severe pain, swelling, a broken tooth or an injury, contact the dental practice so that you can be given instructions and an examination can be scheduled as soon as possible.
Book an appointment
If you have been putting off your visit, the first step is a small one: a phone call. Book an appointment at our practice in Thessaloniki and tell us what worries you; we will proceed at your own pace.
Every mouth is different. The appropriate treatment is recommended after a clinical examination.
