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Dental Anxiety & Phobias

You are not alone - dental anxiety is very common.

Signs may include:

  • Feeling nervous before appointments
  • Avoiding dental visits
  • Increased heart rate or panic
  • Difficulty sitting through treatment


We want you to know:

Your feelings are valid, and we work with you at your pace

Trauma-informed care recognises that many people have experioenced events that can make dental treatment feel unsafe or triggering. These may include:

  • Previous painful or negative dental experiences
  • Medical trauma
  • Anxiety, panic attacks, or phobias
  • Sensory sensitivities
  • Past personal trauma


Rather than asking "What's wrong with you?, we ask "What has happened to you, and how can we support you?"


This approach is grounded in widely accepted healthcare principles:

  • Safety - you feel physically and emotionally safe
  • Choice - you are always in control
  • Collaboration - we work together
  • Trust - clear, honest communication
  • Empowerment - your voice matters

Premedication involves taking a tablet before your appointment to help you feel relaxed.


How it works:

These medications (commonly from the benzodiazapine family) help to:

  • Reduce anxiety
  • Promote relaxation
  • Make the appointment feel easier to manage


You will still be awake and able to respond, but feel calmer and less overwhelmed


What to Expect:

  • Taken at home one hour prior to appointment
  • You may feel drowsy or sleepy
  • You will need someone to drive you to and from your appointment
  • Effects can last for several hours


Is it Safe?

When prescribed appropriately, premedication is safe and widely used in dentistry. Your dentist will review your medical history to ensure it is suitable for you.

Nitrous oxide, often called "happy gas", is a very safe and effective way to reduce anxiety during dental tretment.


How It Works:

You breathe a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen through a small nose mask. Within minutes, you may feel:

  • Calm and relaxed
  • Light or floaty
  • Less aware of time
  • Less sensitive to discomfort


Key Benefits:

  • Works quickly (within minutes)
  • You remain awake and in control
  • Adjustable throughout the appointment
  • Wears off quickly once stopped (5 minutes of 100% oxygen)
  • You can usually drive yourself home
  • Minimal lingering drowsiness

Dentistry should feel safe, respectful and collaborative


Our goal is to help you receive the care you need - in a way that feels comfortable, empowering, and tailored to you.

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