Tips on finding a dentist who doesn't terrify you!?

I am sure I am not the only person in the world who has a ridiculous, unfounded fear of dentistry. I haven't been to the dentist in over 4 years because of it, and now I have to go cos I have had a tooth ache for the last few days. I'm on the verge of having an anxiety attack just thinking about going to the dentist!





My last dentist was alright as far as handling my fear but now I have moved away from that town and have to find a new dentist. How should I go about finding a dentist that is nice and understanding about this fear that I have? Any recommendations?

Tips on finding a dentist who doesn't terrify you!?
Call them and ask about fearful patients. Listen to their tone. I've went to several dentists, and some ppl may not agree but when the receiptionist is nice, I usually get good care. I've had ones who said,"who are you?" and really mean dentist. Also, ask what they offer for fearful patients. You may not use them but knowing that they have it means they are ready to deal with ppl who are nervous. Most are really nice these days compared to back then. Just remember that if they are really rude or mean, you can always walk out. Make a date for after the dentist so the whole day is not devoted to the dentist. Like plan a movie, dinner, etc. And pump urself up by saying,"Get it over with!" Also, just think, two months from now, you'll do new things and the dentist appt was just something that had to be done and now it's done. EVERYONE'S scared of the dentist so ur not alone. Just tell them ur scared also and they'll treat you very gently. Good luck!
Reply:Don't go to the dentist! If your teeth fall out you can still eat apple sauce!
Reply:Go to the dentist's office and listen for screaming.


If you hear any then RUN!
Reply:I would suggest you examine your fear first. Many people fear dentists and doctors for a variety of reasons. For me, its needles. The dentist can Xray me, look in my mouth, and even shove that little mirror in there and I'm fine. But the moment someone pulls out a needle, I'm gone, and woe betide anyone between me and the door.





Try to narrow down what exactly it is that you fear, and then discuss this, over the phone if necessary, with a few of your local dentists. It may be what you fear will not be necessary for dealing with your toothache. 99% of dentists will understand and do their best to work with you. If they dont, or if they disregard your fears, they are not worth your time, money, or fear. They may tell you, honestly, that they dont feel they can make you comfortable in their setting. If that happens, ask them if they know someone who can. Eventually you'll find someone who can work with you. On the other hand, if there is a problem bad enough to cause you lasting pain, its probably bad enough to get worse if left untreated. And in dentistry, a worse problem usually means a worse solution. So DONT WAIT! Good luck to you!
Reply:well, I know this may sound crazy, but see if a pediatric dentist will take you, you might feel better there since they probablly have to deal with scared kids all the time.
Reply:I think you should find a dentist that your family or a close friend sees. Explain to the person that answers the phone that you have a fear and ask what they offer. Sometimes they offer sedation, laughing gas or other options. They understand and will know how to deal with your situation.
Reply:OH my goodness the best thing for you is to look into sleep or sedation dentistry! You wont feel a thing and generally these types of dentists know you're a little afraid going into it so they're really nice! Check out this directory for a lot of different specialized dentists:





http://www.san-diego-dentist.us


http://san-diego-dentists.blogspot.com


http://www.san-diego-dentist.us/san-dieg...


http://www.san-diego-dentist.us/tijuana-...


http://www.san-diego-dentist.us/san-dieg...


http://www.las-vegas-nevada-lawyer-attor...


http://www.medical-research-study-direct...


http://www.lasik-surgery-san-diego.info/...