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Archive for the ‘dental phobia’ Category

Fighting Phobia in the Heart of Leeds

Monday, April 18th, 2016

585811_blogConquer your fear of the dentist’s chair with the help of City Dental Leeds.

Over 2.5 million people in the UK suffer from dental phobia – or to give it its proper name – dentophobia.  Around 1 in 23 people experience this type of fear. Whilst most phobias can be cured with professional help, only about 20% of phobias disappear without any assistance at all.

Our dentists recognise that everyone’s phobias are different, but these trained clinicians can offer a variety of treatments suitable to each person’s needs.  A popular method for dealing with a phobia is to completely face it – with the support of professional help.  Known as ‘exposure treatment’, it involves the patient imagining a list of things or situations that contribute to their phobia.  Whilst focussing on their scariest fear, they practice a series of breathing and relaxation techniques.

There are several alternative treatments available too, such as hypnosis or NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming) – whereby identifying which trigger words can help patients adapt their mind frame to respond in a healthier manner.  But many dentists practice a number of techniques that treat their anxiety, rather than the phobia itself. For example, if a patient is reluctant to be operated on by use of a dental drill, it is possible to find a dentist who practices air abrasion techniques. This is a quieter and more comfortable method.

Should sedation and a numbing gel be more appropriate, these also prove to be helpful with phobic patients, but ultimately it is up to each individual what treatment works best for them.  With the dental environment filled with numerous stimuli, such as sounds, sights and smells – it is possible that any one of those can trigger a phobia.

Overcoming Dental Phobia and Taking the First Steps Toward Your New Smile

Wednesday, October 28th, 2015

585811_blogWhen seeing the A-Listers of Hollywood impressing many on the silver screen or in the glamour magazines for all to see, it is very hard not to notice that the quality of their teeth is outstanding; they are straight, white and sparkly. For anyone else who does not live and work in this vibrant community, they might yearn to have a great new smile but for some reason or other do not know where to turn first.

The initial step

To begin with, attend an initial consultation. Even if you are nervous about visiting a dentist, our highly qualified professionals understand that a dental practice is not an ideal place for everybody, but every effort is made to ease any anxiety. In this initial meeting, a consultation will be made with our welcoming and understanding professionals where they will advise you on what they propose for improving your oral health and giving you that new smile that you might have been after for some time.

What comes next

After the initial meeting, it will be discussed between you and your dental professional about what is the next best step. Our dental professionals will not presume what is best for you but will discuss in great detail what courses of treatment are available to you. A complete breakdown of the prices for the treatment will be presented to you so there is no chance of any hidden charges.

It needn’t be an arduous time

So, no matter what your previous dental health history is and despite what you have experienced in other dental practices, here at the City Dental Leeds the many highly trained professionals understand this and work with you and not against you.

For further information about the many dental services we can provide for you, contact 020 7247 8057 so you can be assisted in having that great smile you’ve always longed to have.

Dental Phobia And How We Can Help You Overcome It

Wednesday, October 14th, 2015

585804_blogDental phobia is where the fear of dentistry is so extreme that sufferers refuse to attend check-ups or somehow prevent important treatments. Obviously, not attending check-ups and surgeries will have a pretty negative and potentially painful impact on the oral health of those suffering from dental phobia. Members of The British Dental Foundation found that a quarter of people admitted to being afraid of the dentist.

How can it be helped?

Phobias are, by their very definition, irrational. It would be quite easy to imagine someone being well aware that they need treatment – it’s just they also feel they won’t be able to go through with it. Thankfully, some methods of helping with dental phobia are available. One such technique is known as intravenous sedation.

What is intravenous sedation then?

Intravenous sedation makes you feel calm and untroubled by the dental procedure you are going through. You won’t be asleep, though you might find it hard to recall much of your treatment after it has finished. Some have even compared the effects of intravenous sedation to feeling a little drunk! During treatment, you will easily be able to react to questions your dentist has asked you.

How does it work?

IV sedation is gently injected. If you’re also afraid of needles, some clinics can provide a numbing cream for the site of the injection, but other approaches may need to be considered. The sedative is essentially applied through a very thin needle into a vein very close to the surface of your flesh.

Talk to us

We at City Dental Leeds will treat any concerns you have with the utmost respect. If you want to face your fears, then please contact one of our attentive staff members.

 

Common Fears of People with Dental Phobia

Tuesday, September 29th, 2015

283481_blogDental phobia is an umbrella term that encompasses a vast range of fears associated with the dentist and dental procedures. Below are some of the common fears experienced by people with dental phobia:

  1. Loss of control. People with dental phobia may have a fear of being out of control. The ‘turtle on its back’ position assumed in the dentist’s chair can leave people feeling defenceless, vulnerable and exposed.
  2. Embarrassment. Some people with dental phobia are so embarrassed and ashamed of their teeth that the idea of a dentist/hygienist/pretty dental assistant laughing at or mocking their teeth leaves them severely distressed. Human beings are social animals and need positive social evaluation.
  3. Needles. A fear of needles can be traced back to a genetic survival instinct and the impulse to avoid harmful objects such as snakes, lightening and, of course, needles.
  4. Smell. The notorious smell of the dentist can result in a primal fight-or-flight response in some people with dental phobia. The antiseptic ‘Eugenol,’ derived from clove oil, is responsible for the strong smell found in most dentists and is actually a healing agent.
  5. Sights. The sight of the sterile whitewashed walls, the dentist chair and face mask are all powerful visual reminders of real or imagined fear.
  6. Pain. Some people are absolutely terrified at the prospect of experiencing pain at the hands of their dentist. This can result from a previous painful dental experience or another painful and/or traumatic experience.
  7. Crying/making a fool of yourself. The fear of crying and/or breaking down in fear is enough to completely deter people from attending their dental appointments.
  8. Gagging/vomiting. Emetophobia (fear of vomiting) and gagging can also create extreme fear of dental situations.

Relaxation Techniques for Anxious Patients

Sunday, August 23rd, 2015

944335_blogAt City Dental Leeds we recognise that going to the dentist can be an anxiety-provoking experience for some of our patients. We are a Dental Phobia certified practice and always help our patients feel calm, relaxed and comfortable. Our modern clinic is kited out with the latest equipment and we have designed soothing, peaceful spaces to help you de-stress and relax.

What causes dental anxiety?

There are many reasons why people suffer from anxiety when faced with a session in the dental chair. For many people, more specific fears such as a fear of the drill, needles or injections are to blame, while others feel nervous due to negative experiences in the past. In patients who haven’t been to a dentist for a long time, there is often a worry that something will be wrong or a feeling of embarrassment about the state of the teeth and gums.

At City Dental Leeds, our dentists work with nervous patients on a regular basis and use a variety of techniques to help patients to overcome their fears and ensure they feel much more confident and comfortable the next time a dental appointment comes around. From a warm, friendly smile on arrival to the use of the latest dental techniques to minimise discomfort, we are always here to help. We are happy to meet patients for a consultation prior to an appointment for treatment so that they can have a look around and meet the team. We also provide treatment under sedation.

Sedation for nervous patients

We often find that even the mention of sedation can help to make patients feel more relaxed. Sedative medications induce a feeling of calm on the body and mind and when you’re under sedation you can undergo treatment without any anxiety. With sedation, you’ll feel drowsy, but you will still be conscious. you won’t feel anything and you probably won’t remember much about the procedure afterwards.

If you would like to find out more about dental services for nervous patients, don’t hesitate to call us, get in touch via our website or pop in and see us.

We Can Help You Conquer Your Dental Fear

Sunday, July 19th, 2015

585804_blogSurveys show that dental phobia is one of the most common fears around and we take dental anxiety very seriously. We recognise that some patients feel very nervous about going to the dentist and many avoid the dentist for prolonged periods of time because they are too scared to pick up the phone and make an appointment. If this sounds familiar to you, we are here to help. Our team has experience in providing first class standards of care for patients who suffer from dental phobia and serious anxiety and we offer treatment under sedation and the latest techniques to minimise stress and ensure optimum patient comfort.

At City Dental Leeds, we work with patients to help them gradually overcome their fears and we are here every step of the way to offer reassurance, answer questions and provide ongoing support. We offer clinic tours and consultations to enable patients to meet the team and get a feel for the practice. Our dental team is always on hand to answer questions and provide advice and we have the latest equipment on-site to provide the best treatment outcomes. We also offer treatment under sedation.

About sedation

Sedation is used commonly in medicine and dentistry as a means of helping patients to feel more comfortable when they have a procedure. Sedation makes you feel very relaxed and calm and prevents you from feeling discomfort. It helps to ease your fears and block out pain without the risks of general anaesthetic. Under sedation, you will be conscious, but you will feel drowsy. After the procedure, the effects of the sedative will start to wear off and you’ll feel more alert. We recommend asking a friend or family member to come to the clinic with you and drive you home, as you should not drive for 24 hours after sedation.

If you would like to find out more about sedation or treatment for nervous patients at City Dental Leeds, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Bid Goodbye to Your Dental Anxiety

Wednesday, June 24th, 2015

585804_blogEven the thought of going to the dentist is enough to make some people feel very worried and anxious. If you suffer from dental anxiety or dental phobia, we are confident we can help you build your confidence and make you feel more relaxed and comfortable when you have a dental appointment in the future. We have a very friendly and compassionate dental team and use the latest treatments and techniques, including sedation, to produce excellent results quickly and painlessly.

What exactly is sedation and could it benefit me?

Sedation is a technique that helps patients undergoing a dental or medical procedure feel more relaxed. Patients are given sedative medication either orally or intravenously and this induces a state of deep calm and relaxation similar to sleep. When you are sedated, you won’t feel discomfort but you will still be conscious. Unlike when you have treatment under general anaesthetic, you can talk to your dentist and will be able to hear them talking to you. Sedation helps to ensure patients remain calm during the procedure and it can be beneficial for those with anxiety, patients undergoing long or complex procedures and patients who have a very sensitive gag reflex.

What happens after sedation?

After the procedure is complete, the effects of the sedative will start to wear off and you will become more alert. However it can take up to 24 hours for the effects to wear off completely. We recommend asking a friend or relative to come with you to the clinic and then take you home afterwards. For the first 24 hours, we advise patients against exercising, driving, drinking alcohol, making important decisions or operating machinery.

If you suffer from dental anxiety and you would like advice, or you wish to make an appointment, visit the clinic and meet the team, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our dentists have training in treating nervous patients and we will make sure your visit to us is stress-free and relaxing.

What To Do If You’re Afraid of Dental Pain

Friday, April 10th, 2015

4361359_blogDental anxiety is extremely common and most people would admit that they feel at least a little nervous when faced with a trip to the dentist. At City Dental Leeds, our experienced and understanding team works incredibly hard to ensure that patients feel comfortable and help nervous patients to overcome their fears.

In addition to providing clients with a relaxing environment, we also use a range of techniques and modern treatments to reduce pain, shorten treatment time and enable patients to feel more comfortable. We are able to carry out certain treatments under sedation and our dentists are always happy to meet with nervous patients to help them prepare for treatment, reassure them and make them feel less anxious.

About sedation

Sedation is an effective way of helping patients to feel more relaxed during a dental or medical procedure. Using sedative medication induces a state of deep calm on the body and mind and under sedation, patients are unable to feel pain. When the effects of sedatives become apparent, patients feel a little drowsy, but they don’t lose consciousness. After sedation, you probably won’t remember much about the procedure and it will take a few hours for the effects of the sedative to wear off completely. We recommend asking somebody to accompany you home and stay with you while you come around.

Sedation is hugely beneficial for anxious patients and it helps to relieve nervousness in the run-up to treatment as well as during the actual procedure.

If you suffer from severe anxiety, haven’t seen a dentist for a long time or  have specific fears such as a fear of pain or needles, we can help. Call us today or bob into the clinic if you are passing and our friendly, compassionate team will do everything they can to ease your worries and make you feel as calm and comfortable as possible.

We Use A Range Of Techniques For Our Nervous Patients

Monday, February 9th, 2015

585804_blogWe understand that anxiety can be crippling for some of our patients and we offer a range of techniques to make patients feel comfortable and help them to build confidence and gradually overcome their fears and worries.

In addition to providing a relaxing, calming space, DVDs and music, magazines and hot drinks to make patients feel comfortable , we also have a really understanding, experienced and compassionate team and we will always go out of our way to help nervous patients to feel as calm as possible. We want to work with you to slowly build your confidence and enable you to come to the dentist without any feelings of dread or nervousness.

One of the most effective techniques we use to help comfort and relax nervous patients is sedation.

About sedation

Sedation is a technique, which is used in clinics and hospitals up and down the country every day; it is widely used in dentistry and medicine to make patients feel comfortable during procedures.

Sedation is used to induce a profound state of relaxation; it involves using sedative medication and it is not the same as general anaesthetic. When you are sedated, you feel drowsy, but you remain conscious; you will be able to hear your dentist and speak to them if you wish to. Once the procedure is complete, you will be given medication to make the sedative wear off and you will gradually start to feel more awake and alert. It can take up to 24 hours for the effects of sedation to wear off completely and we advise you to arrange for somebody to take you home and stay with you during this period of time.

If you are a nervous patient, we are here to help. Our caring team has experience in caring for anxious and phobic patients and we will do everything we can to provide the treatment you need with minimal stress and inconvenience.

Why We Offer Dental Sedation In The City Of Leeds

Saturday, January 10th, 2015

352388_blogWe appreciate that many patients feel anxious when a trip to the dentist is looming and this is why we provide sedation. If you are very nervous about having a dental procedure or you suffer from dental phobia, we can offer treatment under sedation to help you to feel relaxed.

Our dental team is experienced in caring for nervous patients and we use painless techniques and advanced treatments to make patients feel comfortable and prevent them from experiencing pain; we also encourage patients to relax and make themselves feel at home with a drink, a film or some soothing music and we are always happy to arrange a chat or a tour before treatment to help reassure clients and answer any questions.

What is sedation?

We are able to perform a range of procedures under sedation. Sedation is a relaxation technique, which is used to prevent patients from feeling pain or experiencing anxiety when they have a dental or medical procedure. Unlike general anaesthetic, sedatives do not make you lose consciousness and you can return home straight after treatment. Once you are sedated, you will simply feel a little drowsy and you won’t feel any pain. After sedation, it’s normal to feel a little out of it and sleepy, but you will soon start to feel more alert; it can take up to 24 hours for the effects to wear off fully and once we have checked you over, we ask for you to arrange for somebody to take you home and sit with you.

The benefits of sedation

Sedation helps to relax patients. Often, even the thought of having dental treatment can make people feel very stressed and nervous and sometimes, people feel so scared that they avoid going to the dentist for years on end, even if they have dental problems. Sedation helps to make dental treatment less daunting, both before and during a procedure and patients can go into the treatment room with the peace of mind that they are not going to feel any pain. Sedation can also be beneficial for patients who require complex treatment, as they will feel more comfortable.