We understand that many people are nervous or embarrassed about some aspect of dentistry. We have listened to our patients over the years and understand that everyone has their own personal concerns. These can start in different ways and take various forms. Some of our patients have described how their nervousness about visiting the dentist has stopped them fulfilling appointments, which can often lead to further issues and treatment being required, which can cause even more fear. This can sometimes affect confidence and self esteem. At O’Farrell & Staunton, our team is keen to help people feel comfortable at our practice, and are committed to helping you move towards positive health and wellbeing. Our team undertake specific training in this area to ensure you feel calm and comfortable during your visit.

This can include:

• Respecting your feelings and going at your pace
• Looking gently at the causes of the worry and how the situation has developed
• Helping you feel in control of your dental care.
• Dealing with specific fears or triggers, for example, a fear of needles.
• Dealing with fear or worry about being judged. We are non judgemental and its normal for us to see mouths in all conditions. Regularly we move patients from feeling embarrassed to being proud of their mouths.
• Looking ahead at your goals

Positive factors that can help include:

• Welcoming Environment:The Practice is designed to be warm and welcoming. People say it doesn’t feel, look or smell like a regular dental practice. We don’t wear white coats and at your first appointment we take it at your pace.
• You’re in Control:We will help create a clear working agreement with you about what you want and don’t want. We put a lot of emphasis on stopping and starting exactly when you say so. When you are ready it can be good to do a small amount of treatment under controlled conditions to help you get the benefit of a good experience.
• Gentle Treatment:We put a great deal of effort into delivering the treatments so that you are comfortable at all times. Advances in modern dentistry make this achievable.
• Additional Support:You can discuss anything else at all that may help.
• Passionate Team:We like helping people who are nervous about dentistry because it can make such a difference. It’s great to see you walking out at the end of your treatment with a relaxed, healthy smile.