But it doesn't always have to be that way. The "bad" memories from childhood can be quelled enough to get you through dental appointments. First and foremost, a fearful person must find a caring and compassionate dental office. Everyone in the office, from the receptionist to the dentist needs to understand that people's fears of the dentist are REAL and in most cases, justifiable. The entire office needs to work as a team to put the fearful patient at ease. The best ways to find a comfortable office are referrals from friends and family and from directing speaking to staff members from offices BEFORE your first appointment. If you feel anxious speaking with a receptionist that is brusque, chances are you will feel anxious when you come in for the appointment.
In the course of my 12 years in the clinical setting, I have had numerous (uncountable!) experiences with patients who are fearful. Many women have seriously told me that they'd "rather have a baby" than have their teeth cleaned. That is some deep fear! To these patients, I suggest using headphones with their favorite CD playing. Or some of them like to hear a constant stream of conversation going to keep their minds off what is going on their mouths. One tactic I like to use is letting the person know what I am doing, and what I will do doing next. For example, I let the patient know that I am examining their teeth and fillings, then I tell them I will be examining their gums for gum disease. I also let them know that it may be slightly uncomfortable, and to simply let me know if it gets to be "too much" for them. Many times through out my career, a patient has said that they've just had enough for one day-and we simply reschedule them.
If the "talk therapy" does not work, the dentist can prescribe a mild sedative for people that have a driver available. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) can also be employed, and seems to have a very positive effect in fearful children.
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