Sedation – Anxiety

A visit to the dentist can be a very daunting experience. Many people attempt to avoid it resulting in unnecessary neglect of their mouth and and in many circumstances pain. At Seagate Dental our dentists have a wealth of experience when it comes to treating those individuals who have dental anxieties, fears and phobias. We set aside the time to explain treatment options, utilise modern techniques for pain free procedures and aim to dispel patients anxieties allowing for an enjoyable experience at the dentist.

We understand that not all dental treatment is the same. We do endeavour to carry out all treatment on site however a few patients would still find it easier to have treatment carried out under sedation. Sedation is carried out in specialist centres under referral from ourselves.

People with dental phobias are unlikely to arrange an appointment for themselves. They often know they require treatment but need a helping hand from a friend or relative to attend an appointment. If you are aware of someone who has been ignoring the existence of dentists then take note of the following:

• Dental anxieties and phobias are very real. The dental neglect suffered by these potential patients can be extremely embarrassing. A bit of understanding and empathy is what they need.
• It is good for the anxious patient to register in person. On their visit to the practice this allows them to familiarise themselves with the surroundings without having to have their mouth checked the first time they step through the door. It may be possible for the patient to first see the surgery they will be in and meet the dental team.
• Anxious patients are very good at not turning up! Friends and relatives are invaluable in getting an anxious patient to an appointment. We are able to accommodate someone in the surgery for moral support if needed.
• Get them to see their Doctor. It may be possible to give medication which will make an anxious patient more relaxed about attending the dentist.
• At any initial appointment a full examination of the mouth is undertaken allowing the dentist to advise the patient of any necessary treatment and their options. Unless requested we would not carry out any treatment on a first visit.
• Anxious patients sometimes use lack of money as a suitable excuse to avoid the dentist. NHS check-ups are free and there are a number of people who are entitled to subsidised or free treatment.
• Ultimately anxious friends and relatives will listen to what you say. If you have had good dental experiences then tell them about it. Our culture always portrays a visit to the dentist as a gruesome experience which it most certainly is not. If anxious patients don’t hear enough about the good experiences they will focus of the bad ones!

It is important that everyone attends regular checkups to screen for tooth decay and gum problems but also to screen for mouth cancer. Incidences of mouth cancer have increased by 1/3 over the last decade and worryingly it is now seen in younger people. Early detection from regular check ups is the key to increasing long term survival.