D
deeflannery
Member
- Joined
- May 7, 2022
- Messages
- 22
- Location
- Toronto
Hello All,
This is my first time posting, but I just wanted to reach out for assistance with my severe anxiety re: the dentist. I have not been to the dentist in many many years, and recently made my first appt to return because I have 2 broken teeth that I can no longer procrastinate in dealing with.
I had a traumatic dental experience when I was a child and have avoided the dentist ever since. I was having a tooth pulled and the woke up in the middle of the procedure. I felt, saw and heard everything happening. Had nightmares for weeks afterward, and have had an intense fear ever since.
I know that it is important to face this fear and deal with my oral hygiene, but am so nervous and scared. The rational part of my brain is even feeling silly and stupid that I've waited this long, but then the fear takes over.
When making the phone call, I explained my situation up front, saying I had fear/anxiety and I haven't been to the dentist in many years. I know once I start the process I will be relieved and feel so much better, but am terrified. Even making the phone call, my hands were shaking, I was so nervous.
Any advice or reassurance would be great to hear.
This is my first time posting, but I just wanted to reach out for assistance with my severe anxiety re: the dentist. I have not been to the dentist in many many years, and recently made my first appt to return because I have 2 broken teeth that I can no longer procrastinate in dealing with.
I had a traumatic dental experience when I was a child and have avoided the dentist ever since. I was having a tooth pulled and the woke up in the middle of the procedure. I felt, saw and heard everything happening. Had nightmares for weeks afterward, and have had an intense fear ever since.
I know that it is important to face this fear and deal with my oral hygiene, but am so nervous and scared. The rational part of my brain is even feeling silly and stupid that I've waited this long, but then the fear takes over.
When making the phone call, I explained my situation up front, saying I had fear/anxiety and I haven't been to the dentist in many years. I know once I start the process I will be relieved and feel so much better, but am terrified. Even making the phone call, my hands were shaking, I was so nervous.
Any advice or reassurance would be great to hear.