Dental Phobia Support

19-10-2011 10:38pm

I just had two fillings, a tooth basically reconstructed (it had snapped in half and they kept part of the tooth, the rest is filling) and a molar extracted in the one sitting. I did it under conscious sedation up north.

They had to put a cannula in my arm which is enough to send me into hysterics (I just don't like having ANY medical procedures done, nothing, hate all of it) and I was freaking out with the cannula, they kept saying "It's not a needle! It's a small plastic tube!" Heard this SO many times, it doesn't matter what it is, it's in my vein and it's hurting! Then they administered the first sedative. They said "Tell me when your face starts to feel heavy", I remember saying "Yeah I can feel that", and after that? I remember nothing. My boyfriend is able to tell me I started talking about my budgies, my cats, and also my horse who died two years ago! Gave me a right laugh. They just sat and watched me till I stopped talking, then my boyfriend left the room (he's not great with dentists anyway, he didn't need to watch what was happening). I remember nothing from saying "I can feel that now" until suddenly I was looking at the light above me, and had my arms crossed which is weird cause normally I wont move my arm with a cannula in it, so much my hand turns blue. They said they'd done all the front fillings but still had to extract the tooth. I asked if it would hurt and they said probably not, cause they'd done all the anesthetic stuff already. I was awake all along, but remember nothing until they took the tooth out, and even then, didn't feel a thing and don't remember much of it.

However I don't remember much for the day for the next two hours either. I was awake and texting my friends and being driven home, my boyfriend tells me I turned into an evil cow and ranted at him the entire hour home, but I was quite sure I'd slept. Apparently not.

I was not happy with the reconstruction of my tooth, it looked pretty awful. But being as phobic of procedures as I am, don't care. I didn't feel a thing and I don't remember any of it. And I'm very relieved to hear I only talked about my pets when I was going under the sedation, God knows what I could have come out with! That is, if my boyfriend is telling me the truth about that!

I do recommend it, for sure. However if you are sensitive to valium (well, benzos in general) be aware that this is a mighty dose of it. Valium always causes me to crash emotionally a few hours later and become extremely depressed. Suicidal even, for no reason. It just reacts badly with me. I became a demon for two hours after the sedative and spent the next 36 hours crying my heart out.

I would definitely go for more dental work now, after years of avoiding the dentist, under sedation.

Jet Black · 08-11-2011 11:49am

Haven't been in 13 years. One bad experience turned me off them. I finally went yesterday and it was fine, the guy was very nice. Just needed 3 fillings. Going to get them done and cleaned.

All the worry is gone now and I'm so much happier :-)

cassi · 08-11-2011 11:27pm

Having been petrified of the dentist, i finally made it to one a few weeks ago after approx TEN years :eek:. I shook at the very mention of the dentist. I broke out in the sweats everytime I thought I really must make an appointment. I've never had any pain with my teeth but was well aware that i would need fillings and I also had a horridly bad tarter build up on the backs of my lower front teeth. I felt that at twenty seven and always been complemented on my smile it would be rather stupid to let it rot.

Anyway after much searching and shaking, I was told of a Dentist in Sligo that specialises in Nervous patients. (Anyone wanting to know who it is, feel free to PM me, I believe its against rules to name names) I made an appointment and had my first check up, the dentist was very very friendly and put me at ease straightaway. He did my x rays, checked my teeth, gums etc and then told me what needed to be done. As he said I had no big things to be done just a few smaller things and following these being completed and with care and regular check ups my teeth should be my teeth for the rest of my life. I needed six small fillings and two visits with the hygienist for a deep cleaning and root planing. He said my bone structure was good, all my teeth were strong and had good roots and my wisdom teeth were causing no problems. He gave me NO lecture on waiting so long to visit etc, which was brilliant. I felt it was because he knew I was well aware of it and didnt need a telling off.

So i made my first visit to the hygienist the following week. I was a little less nervous but still felt anxious about it. The hygienist was lovely, very friendly, comforting and explained everything she was going to do in great detail including what each instrument was for and how it should feel. The cleaning was uncomfortable at times but never painful or too much to bare. She did say that if I got sore at any stage she would numb my mouth. When she finished she told me what to expect in the next few days and also showed me how to floss correctly. Over the course of the week, I could see and feel a significant difference in my gums and teeth. Even tough I didnt have any pain before Now they feel healthy and normal if that makes sense

Anyway earlier today I had my second visit to finish the right side of my mouth, again not painful. She was very happy with how my gums looked and how my cleaning was going. She said I had no further build ups and to keep cleaning my teeth as well as I am now. I didnt feel nervous at all and she said she could sense the difference in me.

I just need to start my filling now and soon it'll all be over. I dont feel anxious at all about it now

. This practise also offer the twilight sedation, which I really thought I would need but after speaking to the dentist and hygienist, I feel comfortable to go it with just the numbing. To cut a long story short, for someone who never felt they would be comfortable with a dentist, I'm quite amazed by myself

. I'm determined to keep on top of things now, with regular check ups and cleanings.

To people reading putting it off like I have done for so long, I encourage going for it, you wont regret it. Your health and smile is much more important.

amtw · 08-11-2011 11:51pm

Can anyone tell me what this twilight drug is. I used to go to a dentist on the bottom of the Malahide Rd who used a memory blocker. He died a few years ago and I am terrified of all other dentists. I have sat in the chair and cried like a baby. Is this twilight stuff the same as the memory blocker and are there many dentists who use this on their petients.

boxoff · 09-11-2011 10:23pm

Hey folks,

VERY VERY VERY nervous dentist goer here (havnt been in 15years) Basically to cut a long story short, my molar broke and went to the dentist to discover I needed six fillings aswell as the broken tooth out. I fainted - yup on the floor, bang in the waiting area/reception..... bad experience.

Op, I'm chopping this. You havent been to the dentist in 15 years, its not a whole lot of money and frankly the bulk of it is being spent on the IV sedation which not every dentist does.
If you get a local it will be cheaper.

boxoff · 09-11-2011 10:54pm

boxoff wrote: »

Hey folks,

VERY VERY VERY nervous dentist goer here (havnt been in 15years) Basically to cut a long story short, my molar broke and went to the dentist to discover I needed six fillings aswell as the broken tooth out. I fainted - yup on the floor, bang in the waiting area/reception..... bad experience.

Op, I'm chopping this. You havent been to the dentist in 15 years, its not a whole lot of money and frankly the bulk of it is being spent on the IV sedation which not every dentist does.
If you get a local it will be cheaper.

Thanks pal for advise - do most dentist give local A?

helimachoptor · 09-11-2011 11:11pm

boxoff wrote: »

Thanks pal for advise - do most dentist give local A?

Yes they all will

Mr. Deadly · 14-11-2011 4:15am

I had a bad experience last time I went to a dentist and I haven't been back since, that was 3 years ago.
My teeth are in bad condition, I didn't take care of them as I should have and I really should go, but A I'm worried about finding out exactly how bad my teeth are as I'm only 26.

B I'm afraid I'll get a judgemental dentist

C The experience will be as painful as it was last time when I got a wisdom tooth out. (2 weeks pain)

And finally D the dentist will pull out most of my teeth.
I'm definitely more afraid than most!

vicecreamsundae · 21-11-2011 2:47am

I'm terribly phobic of the dentist- have only ever had two cavities, years and years ago and cannot bear to think about getting one pulled or anything worse.

It's been twelve years since I've been and I'm sick of having this fear constantly hanging over me, so am planning to go soon. I decided earlier this summer. It's quite the process! I've been reading a lot of forums like this one and hearing that other people as scared of the dentist as I am have managed to go and how great they've felt afterwards is really encouraging.

I've located a dentist in Meath (pm for details) despite living nowhere near Meath, who offers the twilight sedation for €160, which I think is a really good deal, particularly because my phobia is so bad that I would pay whatever it takes, even if it meant taking a loan out. I also got my doctor to prescribe me some valium, just a few days ago, which I plan to take before the check-up.

The next step for me is making the appointment. I'm still very nervous about how much work I will need done, and am hoping it is only some fillings (though that still scares me!). I'm considering asking the dentist not to tell me explicitly what needs doing, and think I might handle it better that way. I'm trying to focus on A) the fact that everyone says the twilight sedation is amazing and you really don't feel afraid or care, and

how AWESOME I will feel afterwards knowing I did this. It will be priceless.

I just want to say that a year ago, I could never in my right mind have imagined that I'd be planning to go to the dentist of my own free will. In part, I think I will feel that bit more in control and positive if I go by my own choice than if I leave it until someday when I NEED to go.

Some little tips that I think have helped me thus far (-I know I haven't made the appointment yet, so it seems a bit early to be giving tips but even just my attitude has come so far in a short space of time by deciding I'm going to go!!)
-close your eyes and imagine yourself going to the dentist and having a positive experience. if you find yourself getting scared or imagining a pervious bad experience, stop yourself, and try again in a couple minutes.

-when thinking, talking or writing about it, use language you are more comfortable with. i now say dentists office instead of dentists surgery, cavities instead of fillings, 'be numbed' rather than 'get the injection' etc, and i think it helps me feel calmer.

tell a couple of people about your phobia and how you plan to finally start facing it. preferably tell someone you really admire (or have a crush on) and sound confident and determined.or maybe someone who really looks up to you and who you don't want to let down. showing off is good in this context! this helps me because it makes me not want to wuss out, and instead to be the confident person I sounded like.

i find music helps a lot,and when i feel anxious thinking about the dentist, I'll listen to certain songs that make me feel better. I most definitely plan on blasting my ipod while in the chair. think about your own feelgood music.

remember with all these stories, EVERYONE feels better after they go. nobody says they wish they hadn't!

SingItOut · 29-12-2011 10:04pm

I've never had any good experiences with any dentist, The first major dental procedure I needed was at age 10 when I broke my front tooth in half. The female dentist said to let her know if the pain was too much and she would stop immediately. Well, as she was shoving the needle into the gum just above my tooth I was blinded with the pain so held up my hand to let her know it was too painful. She ignored me completely, she took out the needle then re-inserted it again. I tried to push her away and her male assistant held me down as she finished inserting the needle (which took her 3 attempts in total!). Aside from feeling helpless I was terrified and not one of them spoke to me throughout the whole thing.

I was told today by my GP that I need to have my gum "sliced open" and "antibiotics shoved in" for a really painful infected wisdom tooth. I've been on the verge of tears all evening just thinking about it

Oral Surgeon · 30-12-2011 1:48am

SingItOut wrote: »

I've never had any good experiences with any dentist, The first major dental procedure I needed was at age 10 when I broke my front tooth in half. The female dentist said to let her know if the pain was too much and she would stop immediately. Well, as she was shoving the needle into the gum just above my tooth I was blinded with the pain so held up my hand to let her know it was too painful. She ignored me completely, she took out the needle then re-inserted it again. I tried to push her away and her male assistant held me down as she finished inserting the needle (which took her 3 attempts in total!). Aside from feeling helpless I was terrified and not one of them spoke to me throughout the whole thing.

I was told today by my GP that I need to have my gum "sliced open" and "antibiotics shoved in" for a really painful infected wisdom tooth. I've been on the verge of tears all evening just thinking about it

Sorry to hear you're in trouble.
If it's a minor infected gum around the wisdom tooth, salty water rinses and corsodyl may suffice
If ye infection is worse, oral antibiotics may be necessary.
If very severe, some patients require a hospital stay with iv antibiotics...

Ultimately, most patients require removal of the wisdom tooth...

Sounds to me like you need to be on some antibiotics pain killers and organize to see if the tooth needs removal. If treatment is needed, iv sedation would be very nice and comfortable for you.

All the best,
Os

Princess Peach · 22-03-2012 10:09pm

I have never been a fan of the dentist, especially after getting a painful filling once. I haven't been in years, and although I haven't had a pain that has made me need to go, I know I should get a check up and a cleaning.

My problem now is in the years since my last visit I had an eating disorder, and while it hasn't been confirmed by a dentist I am sure it has done some damage to my teeth. I think my fear to go now is that I'm not yet ready to face the consequences. I also know how bad my behaviours are on health, and I guess I just don't want judgement and a lecture from the dentist. I remember the lectures I got when I was younger, I'm old enough now to know what I do and don't do to make my teeth bad.

HEFC · 23-03-2012 5:42pm

I went to a dentist in Portlaoise after having terrible trouble with teeth after several very 'vomitty' pregnancies. He said the acid had caused the enamel on my teeth to erode and decay had set in on some teeth. He did my work under IV sedation , as I'm not great in the chair! It was brilliant ,never looked back.

flutegirl · 26-03-2012 11:11pm

Thought I would chip in with my two cents worth. I knew 3 years back that I would have to have one of my wisdom teeth out but as it wasn't giving me any real pain I just left it. My dentist warned me not to let it go so that I ended up in real agony. Had a bit of pain last summer and dentist referred me to a place in Sligo. Soon as pain was gone thought no more about the referral and forgot about it...until about 3 weeks back when I was in, yep, real agony.

Serous sharp pain late one Friday night (always the way

) thought my head was going to fall off, awake all night, lessened a bit over the weekend but couldn't chew on that side of the mouth or mega pain returned. Finally had to admit defeat and make the appointment to get it removed.

So, had it done middle of last week. Was s@*~*ing it big time as I hadn't had a tooth out in yonks. Got into the chair and I don't know what I was freaking out about. Didn't feel a thing, the dentist explained everything as they were going along, took about 10 minutes to come out, a few stiches and bob's your uncle.

Got home and when the injection wore off I had NO PAIN whatsoever!!! Didn't need to take one painkiller at all, ever! Felt a bit rubbish that evening and the next day, but I think that was due to the worry of having it done and I was just worn out. Face was a tiny bit swollen a couple of days after and I have a small bruise which I'm quite proud of, but nothing major. Had after op check-up today and feel brilliant.

So, the moral here lads is, when you first get told you need to have a wisdom tooth out, just go and get it done, don't put it off.

Oh yeah, and I used to be scared of ever going anywhere near the dentist, even for a check-up, until I found a really nice, understanding one in my town, and you know what? I actually quite like going in now...sick in the head or what!!!!!

KittyMcM · 24-04-2012 6:34pm

Firstly, I can't believe how many appointments I've cancelled over the years! A simple filling came out nearly 5 years ago, I ignored it and I have now half a tooth left in my mouth next to a gap belonged to another tooth that broke which I also ignored.
I decided to go for a clean last week and had so many sleepless nights beforehand but so glad I did. I knew my teeth were a disaster but the dentist was fab! She didn't lecture me and stopped after every second tooth to ask was I ok! After an x-ray she wrote out everything that had to be done with the costing and explained we could go as fast or as slow as I wanted and I could have a sedative if I needed it. She also encouraged me to bring my iPod on the next visit and if anytime I wanted it to stop I could just ask and I could come back another day if I thought it was too much, unbelieveable!
Things really aren't as bad as we make them to be in the dentist. I havn't been for YEARS and it turns out that 5-7 visits will see them perfect. I actually felt silly for spending years dreading something that dosn't have to be so traumatic with the right dentist. We all have bad experiences, especially from childhood, but there are so many advances in dentistry. I would encourage anyone who has fears to just go for a check-up, you will be so proud of yourself when you do!

LizT · 09-05-2012 12:28pm

Just back from the dentist. I hadn't been for a check up in years. I had bad experiences when I was younger and had built the whole experience up to be absolutely terrifying.

It wasn't. I need two fillings - one of which I got today and I might possibly need to get three wisdom teeth out. It sounds horrible but my dentist said they can just put me under sedation and take all three out at once. I'm sure it won't be the most pleasant experience but if I need it done then it's for the best.

The filling wasn't painful at all, the injection to numb stung only a little bit and I'm still numb but honestly I didn't feel any pain. The noise of the drill was actually the most unpleasant bit!

Moral of the story - please go for a check up,I thought I would need root canals, extractions and implants. I don't (apart from wisdom teeth!) and the longer you leave it, the worse it will be! It's better to get a check up and know what the problems are than to build it up in your head while your problems worsen.

triona1 · 18-06-2012 12:13am

Firstly my fear was always the injection,I have four kids and never needed pain relief during labor,But the dentist was just a terrifying idea for me.
Not helping at one time when my husband came back from his dentist with a mouth full of stitches and agony for week's after this really scared be life out of me.

So my wedding day was nearing and wanted to get my teeth cleaned really bad so i made the call i cried after that appointment was made right up to walking in the surgery door.I sat on the chair and the dentist said let me have a look,I could not open my mouth i was that tense and stuck to the chair with pure fear.
He realised this and asked me my worries so i told him the injection and the stitches my husband had received,He replied ill have a look and if i think any work is going to be distressing ill tell you,I said great and ill go and get knocked out and all work done he said great no bother,sure you will be grand.
He was so right done the xray's and needed an extraction.Had to go back for more fillings went no bother at all.
Did have some pain from the extraction so i went back and he checked it out for me and took out a tiny piece of a sandwich that was stuck in the hole,He actually said now there's the sandwich you were short for your picnic was very funny,This was in 2007.
To this day i swear it was the trust i had in that dentist,It really helps a lot.He had also advised to have check ups every 6months so i don't get myself in a state again.

So last week i said id ring and have them checked had a cracked back tooth thought i needed a filling low and behold my dentist was gone.I asked where and everything,was very funny,He went to oz.

So i was there anyhow no choice i said feck it i'm here now.I sat in the chair told the dentist it was a check up and think i need a filling,He said grand ill have a look.I took a fit of the giggles and could not stop all through the surgery,But the more i laughed so did the dentist and then the nurse we were all in convulsion's and the dentist still working away.
I needed an xray and turned out i could go with rc or extraction he advised specialist for rc,I said just take it out.Every bit of work done in those 20 mins was done through hysterical laughter.He said he had never done a surgery like it that it was brilliant,Normally people cry,run,scream,shake.
He was really brilliant.The injection didn't hurt one bit.
But i will say i hate the bit when you can see the injection right in front of your eye's so i just close them still.(I did go in with the same fear and had to explain all my fear to the new dentist).
The receptionist had remembered me from last time and asked me what in the hell had i got done they could all here the laughter in the waiting room,I replied extraction and all the people waiting faces lit up.I will now go every 6 months as the extracted tooth could have easily been saved a few months ago.

Moral of my long post is one bad dentist can ruin everything and nothing worse than awful teeth i'd rather now just get it done and over with and never have tooth pain again.
I have to go back for 4 more fillings and i don't mind at all.I found two great dentist in the one surgery so please don't let that childhood/Adult years dentist fear take over.There are great dentist out there still.

christmas2012 · 23-08-2012 2:03pm

not over my fears:

firstly - extractions,other phobias i have are needles,tools and tooth scrapers.i have two extractions looming over me,ive been told my two back wisdom teeth are side impacted and they are decaying and i would need to get them removed,now i have another two looming over me,i have dull aches in my tooth which is not severe pain but im told that it does progress to bigger pain as there would be an abcess occuring.im dreading it completely.ive heard people can die from extractions,one woman bled to death,another guy got a flesh eating bug,and another died during anaethetic,a boxer died from a fever after the extraction a few hours later.im dreading the whole thing completley.

paddyandy · 23-08-2012 2:10pm

'Painless' was the last visit so i had to ask him how he did it i even wondered if he did anything ? Cocaine gum rub and a surface injection followed by another .Very thin needles .It was a filling .They have improved .

anothernight · 24-08-2012 2:16am

I'm feeling so proud of myself that I had to post it here!
After a few years of being terrified of dentists, I decided that it was time to lose my fear. I asked around for recommendations and got the number of a dentist that was meant to be very good with nervous people (PM if you'd like details. She's great!). I couldn't sleep the night before my appointment, I was so scared! I came very close to crying a few times as I walked into the surgery.

In the end there was nothing to worry about! The dentist seemed to know exactly what to do to put me at ease, and I had to get a lot less work done than I thought, so it wasn't quite as bad as I expected. The cleaning was a little uncomfortable, but I was waiting for her to start putting in the fillings and she'd already finished! She was incredibly encouraging at every step and didn't lecture me at all, which is one of the things that always put me off about dentists.

I'm definitely going back more regularly from now on.

christmas2012 · 24-08-2012 5:13pm

there are some good dentists out there,absolutely!ive been to one recently and all i needed was a cleaning but i was told either a filling or extraction is needed for my back teeth and they would give me trouble anyway(ie abcesses,im prone to leaving things to when it gets crucial but im thinking maybe i will nip this in the bud instead of waiting for abcesses and blood poisioning ugh) so im thinking maybe extraction if not filling first,im going back again,the dentist had a good manner and not easy with me i can definately attest to that i know how i must come across!its worth looking around for a good dentist as we will need them in our lifetime and thank goodness there there,ive been to a few in the past but this one recently ive been to is going to be my permanent dentist definately,and its worth sticking to a local enough dentist,as in emergencies you will be looking local anway,the times my dentist does is even saturdays when i saw that i was impressed by the timetable,as most dentist are closed on saturdays..

woodchuck · 06-09-2012 11:31am

I wasn't sure whether to post here or start a new thread...

I've severe dental phobia and would rather not go into the specifics right now. I'm getting a crown done for the first time in a few weeks and I was hoping people could tell me what to expect? It'll be the first of 2 appointments so they mentioned getting a temporary crown first and then coming back to get the 'real' one. I'm just worried about drilling in particular... I can't stand the feel of little bits of teeth in my mouth and the sound/vibrations of the drill. Does anyone know if there is much involved? I read somewhere they have to 'file' down around the edge of the tooth to put the crown on; what do they use?

I already have a good dentist (up north; uses gas!), but would prefer to know the details of what to expect on the day so I don't end up having a panic attack when they tell me there and then.

abceire · 06-09-2012 11:47am

woodchuck wrote: »

I wasn't sure whether to post here or start a new thread...

I've severe dental phobia and would rather not go into the specifics right now. I'm getting a crown done for the first time in a few weeks and I was hoping people could tell me what to expect? It'll be the first of 2 appointments so they mentioned getting a temporary crown first and then coming back to get the 'real' one. I'm just worried about drilling in particular... I can't stand the feel of little bits of teeth in my mouth and the sound/vibrations of the drill. Does anyone know if there is much involved? I read somewhere they have to 'file' down around the edge of the tooth to put the crown on; what do they use?

I already have a good dentist (up north; uses gas!), but would prefer to know the details of what to expect on the day so I don't end up having a panic attack when they tell me there and then.

Explain what you have said here,ask your dentist or a dental nurse to explain what they'll be doing, maybe you could ask them to ring you back when they not busy to explain. I bring my music player with me to dentist, I have the ear bud head phones and I turn it up very loud so I can't hear the drill.

woodchuck · 06-09-2012 11:54am

abceire wrote: »

Explain what you have said here,ask your dentist or a dental nurse to explain what they'll be doing, maybe you could ask them to ring you back when they not busy to explain. I bring my music player with me to dentist, I have the ear bud head phones and I turn it up very loud so I can't hear the drill.

Thanks for the reply! I think it was just a receptionist (or maybe dental nurse) I was talking to when I made the appointment, but she just told me the basics. Unfortunately they're only open 9-5 and it's difficult for me to talk in work even if I get them to ring me back... I often just break down in tears (I'm finally at the point where I can make an appointment without crying at least!).

I just want to know all the nitty gritty from people who have been through it themselves.

Oh and I always bring headphones, definitely recommend this to others too! It more for the distraction though, I still find the drill loud and obviously doesn't stop the vibrations. The gas helps too... the last time I was there it was a godsent, but a previous time it had almost no effect. They said it can be less effective if I've a lot of adrenaline pumping around. So I don't want to get a fright hearing about what to expect on the day

abceire · 06-09-2012 12:07pm

My dentist in Canada gave me adavan some kind of valium type drug, just took the edge off a bit, also while I am 34, I still had my girlfriend come with me, she was great, hell so great even after we split up she came to my last appointment with me! Oh and she made my appointments and then just told me the day before.
I am not sure if the nitty gritty will help, or just give you more to worry about. Could try some counselling to find out were the phobia came from.
I managed 3 visits, and you do feel pretty great if you can kinda over come your phobia and get what you need done done.
Also a nice thing to do for dentist, I gave them a big fruit bowl thing that I picked up in the supermarket next to the dentist, just to say thank you, we are a little more trouble to work on, so nice to say thank you.

woodchuck · 06-09-2012 12:19pm

abceire wrote: »

My dentist in Canada gave me adavan some kind of valium type drug, just took the edge off a bit, also while I am 34, I still had my girlfriend come with me, she was great, hell so great even after we split up she came to my last appointment with me! Oh and she made my appointments and then just told me the day before.
I am not sure if the nitty gritty will help, or just give you more to worry about. Could try some counselling to find out were the phobia came from.
I managed 3 visits, and you do feel pretty great if you can kinda over come your phobia and get what you need done done.
Also a nice thing to do for dentist, I gave them a big fruit bowl thing that I picked up in the supermarket next to the dentist, just to say thank you, we are a little more trouble to work on, so nice to say thank you.

Thanks abceire

I think the nitty gritty will make me worry more initially, but I just don't want any surprises on the day itself.

I've gone to dentists a good bit in the last couple of years so I'm not as bad as I used to be, but still afraid, particularly when I'm having something new done (the crown is a first for me!). The dentist I was seeing in Dublin did prescribe me valium or something like that before, but since I'm going up north I don't think I'll be able to get something ahead of time. But definitely opting for the gas again!! (Even with the valium I found it a bit hit and miss in terms of how effective it was to be honest. The gas was definitely better than the valium when they both worked at their best.)

The OH has been great and is coming with me again for this next appointment. I used to get him to make the appointments for me, but I'm finally able to do that bit myself at least. I don't think I could handle it being sprung on me at the last minute though!! I need time to mentally prepare myself

abceire wrote: »

Also a nice thing to do for dentist, I gave them a big fruit bowl thing that I picked up in the supermarket next to the dentist, just to say thank you, we are a little more trouble to work on, so nice to say thank you.

That's a good suggestion, thanks

I was thinking of doing something nice for what I hope will be my last visit alright... but for some reason I didn't think they'd appreciate a box of chocolates :P I'll keep the basket of fruit in mind

Oh and in terms of the counselling, while I agree it's a good idea I know of a couple of incidents from my childhood that are probably at least somewhat responsible for the phobia. (Not to mention a general attitude from my parents towards dentists growing up that definitely didn't help matters...). Doing my best to try and face my fears... won't resort to counselling just yet

simpleminded · 06-11-2012 5:14pm

thats great:D

ashleycoldham · 26-04-2013 6:40am

Sienna Vast Peasant wrote: »

Here is an interesting link to a dedicated dental phobia website, it also has a discussion forum.:)

http://www.dentalfearcentral.org/
http://www.prosthodonticsociety.ie/

This link is great. this website is really nice and have a very large network. I have another dental website to discuss every thing regarding health
www.golivewire.com
www.forums.studentdoctor.net

Newonhere · 26-04-2013 7:19am

I hadn't been to the dentist in over forty years following a very bad experience at the "school dentist" when I was about 9 years old. I had been left with a complete terror of anything related to the dentist. I had done everything posible to avoid dentists. My partner managed to persuade me to visit a dentist in the village to see how things had changed.
I was very nervous waiting to go in to see the dentist and when I did get into see him I said to him that before he started to do anything that I needed to talk to him first.
The dentist took the time to listen to my fears and my previous experience.
I was amazed at his patience and the way that he dealt with my concerns
After checking my teeth the dentist explained that I had been pretty lucky and that I needed just two fillings and one extraction, he arranged an appointment for me two weeks later where he carried out the required work.
I am now completely without fear when visiting the dentist and am embarrassed about how I avoided the dentist for so long.
I now visit every 6 months for my regular check up.
I hope that this serves as an encouragement for others to try to face up to their phobia concerning dentists.

countrynosebag · 26-04-2013 11:10am

How did you manage to have the treatment? Did he put you out?
You were exceptionally brave but i am shaking writing this.....not good eh!

crazyginlady · 08-05-2013 8:51am

Starting my dental treatments tomorrow it's going to be a long road. I needed Valium just to get me through the check up and now I'm facing fillings , a wisdom teeth extraction and an appointment with a peredondist .

I opted to start with the wisdom teeth as the pain is horrific and I'm assuming the healing will take time . I've opted for sedation but I've no idea how they will do it . I'm literally up all night worrying about it . Would it be worth binging my music with me or will I even be aware of it under sedation ?

helimachoptor · 08-05-2013 9:28am

I've had other non dental procedures done under IV and i had no awareness.

You'll get the injection of sedative, start counting and then you'll be out for the count. Honestly try not to worry!

crazyginlady · 08-05-2013 9:33am

Thanks for that. I cant honesty understand why I'm so frightened it's silly I've had children ,surgery in my eye while awake and yet this is terrifying me . I think for a while it was also shame about the absolute state of my teeth and imagining the lectures but so far everyone's been understanding and kind about it and reassured me its not as bad as I think .

I find that hard to believe but it's lovely to hear all the same .

HEFC · 08-05-2013 10:05am

Hi, I work in a dental practice that carries out sedation, we provide a leaflet to our patients that are undergoing sedation. All surgeries that operate sedation should do so.
If you would like me to send you a copy, just private message me your email, so I can send PDf to you.

crazyginlady · 08-05-2013 10:06am

That's so kind of you . I would really appreciate that thank you

countrynosebag · 08-05-2013 2:58pm

helimachopter
where did you get the iv please?
I really appreciate good teeth but so much as a child in various institutions has wrecked me in this department for life - unless I get gas or iv I am sunk!

helimachoptor · 08-05-2013 3:01pm

countrynosebag wrote: »

helimachopter
where did you get the iv please?
I really appreciate good teeth but so much as a child in various institutions has wrecked me in this department for life - unless I get gas or iv I am sunk!

It wasnt for any dental work, it was for something else :eek::eek::eek:

I can recommend a place if you want?

countrynosebag · 08-05-2013 3:03pm

HEFC
I am not tekkie and I have no idea how to private message you mr email for leaflet....if you wrote it something like
1. press this or write this and you will see
2. press blah and see this
awfully sorry for nuisance but no lessons - so just muddle through here on my first computer ever.....many pensioners are the same position I think so please be patient.
thank you

countrynosebag · 08-05-2013 3:05pm

helimachopter
thank you so much
all the info is welcome and I would love to go asap but without knowledge of horrors!

helimachoptor · 08-05-2013 3:15pm

What treatment do you need country?

crazyginlady · 09-05-2013 7:13pm

My dentist couldn't place the Iv for the sedative today . She spent the one to explain the procedure in detail and the healing process and then every vein she tried was crappy . So a two week wait now knowing the gory details of what's ahead

my own fault for being a bit dehydrated

countrynosebag · 10-05-2013 8:49am

Ireland
need one tooth out, fillings and 2 bridges

countrynosebag · 10-05-2013 8:57am

I am surprised, my veins are really bad so that i have blood tests in my hand (very, very painful) but years ago, I had this sedative (valium iv apparently) and it was such a tiny needle (the key to it all) it slipped in, for the first time ever, even with the notoriously 'bloodsuckers' (haematologists) challenge!
Slightly off-point, but not exactly, if these awful needles were these tiny ones they would be less painful, and infinitely easier for those of use with what i am told are 'difficult veins/ The odd thing is that I was told when he gave me gas in hospital first (after multiple and painful stabbings - ended up bruised black for nearly a month) he slipped the needle in 'like butter'. I thought oh, if only I have could have a whiff of gas for these blood tests - we would all be so much happier and quicker, AND less bruised!

btkm8unsl0w5r4 · 10-05-2013 1:57pm

You would think that the size of the needle would make a difference to the discomfort and ability to successfully enter a vein, however its doesn't . Bigger needles don't cause more discomfort or stop you getting veins. Its all in the person doing it and their technique. I have had uncomfortable vaccine injections with a tiny needle and painless needles in the blood donor clinic which use knitting needles. Its all about the technique.

HEFC · 10-05-2013 11:28pm

Sienna Vast Peasant wrote: »

You would think that the size of the needle would make a difference to the discomfort and ability to successfully enter a vein, however its doesn't . Bigger needles don't cause more discomfort or stop you getting veins. Its all in the person doing it and their technique. I have had uncomfortable vaccine injections with a tiny needle and painless needles in the blood donor clinic which use knitting needles. Its all about the technique.

Absolutely, loads of practice makes perfect!!:)

crazyginlady · 12-05-2013 12:09am

Thankfully needles don't bother me at all. She tried for ages and it just wasn't happening but in reflection I had drank nothing but a cup of coffee in almost twelve hours ?! So really entirely my own fault . I'm very anxious about the next appointment but having seen the X-ray I know I just have to get it done

_Kaiser_ · 21-05-2013 5:44pm

This may surprise a lot of people, but I can't actually remember going to a dentist - ever! (at least not since early childhood and I'm now in my mid/late 30s).
I rarely set foot in a doctor's office either (twice in as many years) but despite this, a bad typical-man diet, fondness for cans of coke, sweets and so on I've (amazingly?) never actually suffered any pain. Occasional bleeding gums when brushing but that's it and my teeth themselves, while not great aren't all rotten either. Main issue seems to be a build up of plaque around the edges but I've found Sensodyne Repair & Protect helps with that.

I don't mean this as a "aren't I great" post cause I know it's not.. I know I should/probably need to go to a dentist and get checked out but the idea terrifies me, probably because (as others said earlier) I'd expect a lecture on what's wrong/needs doing as a result, fear being told he has to take out half of them or something, and a massive bill at the end of it.

Any thoughts on a nice, very patient dentist in south/north Dublin (have car, will travel). Be kind now.. I already know I'm an idiot

PM's per charter welcome.

Cheers!

countrynosebag · 21-05-2013 7:06pm

i don't think you are daft or anything....you are just one of the many that are scared of going to the dentist.
I am practically fainting off at the thought and i had terrible childhood BUTCHERS - pain and holding down and very frightened and staff from my various places were not 'mumsie' or made no effort to be, no cuddles just more holding down. awful.
I need sedation and no bones about it. I am not ashamed I do feel a bit silly now i am a pensioner but that is that.
i need work and i do not eat sweets, some very low sugar cake once or twice a week. Some people seem to have naturally strong teeth and you sound lucky - someone will write in with your information and you will have gleaming teeth to smile proudly with - good luck to you,

Spanish Eyes · 15-09-2013 2:05pm

My terrible fear is of choking. I have this need to swallow, and then feel I'm about to Die from choking.

Needles, drills, no worries, but that aful choking feeling is making me terrified.

My front crown fell out Saturday. OMG it was in place for thirty years, and now I have to go get it fixed.

I am petrified. Sitting here shaking. And money is a problem too. I don't know how much this is going to cost, cos when the dentist looks inside my gob, I know I have BIG work to do.

Going to go IV sedation, and hopefully borrow the money from the CU.

I'm with you guys, but am sick, sick, shaking, and sick.

gavmcg92 · 07-11-2013 1:18pm

Have a huge fear of the dentist. Just thinking about it gives me shivers. My problem is with the drill. No matter how much injections they give you, the sensation of the drilling and the vibrations gets to me every time.
Got pushed into an appointment today after not being to the dentist for 6 or 7 years.

I'm surprised at how well it went. Turns out I had nothing to fear about. Other than a few issues with my wisdom teeth (which I guess is normal because I'm about that age where they start to come up), everything was fine. She scraped around for a bit, asked me a few questions, and cleaned and polished them. Not sure why I was so worried. Happy I've done it now.

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