Dental phobia at age 20 and want some tips off people please.

[laulane]

Hi.
I had a very bad eperience at the dentist a few years ago and haven't been back since. I had toothache this week and managed to force myself to go and see a local dentist but he was awful. He rushed, was rude, didn't explain anything and hurt me. I now feel like my fear has multiplied several times. I managed to get an appointment with another dentist at a different practise in a couple of weeks but feeling really dreadful. I'm hoping to have at least one session of Emotional Freedom Therapy before the appointment and am tempted to try accupuncture. Has anyone tried either of these methods please?? Also do you think they would object to me holding a very small soft toy dabbed with lavender oil to relax me whilst in "the chair" please??
Many Thanks x

 

[kittykat]

I bring a teddy bear and a weighted blanket to every appointment to stay calm. They don't care and won't judge you for it

 

[laulane]

Ok thnks. Did consider a blanket but I only got heavy or really big ones. I may take one or both of my fave shawls. X

 

[laulane]

Plus wen I saw emergency dentist a few days ago he laughed wen he saw my soft toy poking out of my bag so I struggled without him. Worst mistake eva I think. X

 

[carole]

Hi laulane to the forum.

You just got one very rude and horrible dentist don't give him another thought he isn't worth it. Your new dentist may be very understanding and caring, and I don't think they will mind what you hold on to. They just want to help you to get the treatment you need and if it helps you stay calm it is much better for them. It is much easier to work on a calm and still patient.

Good luck let us know how you get on

 

[laulane]

Ok thnks x

 

[kittykat]

That's just awful that the emergency dentist laughed at your teddy bear. Make sure that your real dentist isn't as rude as that! I would have taken serious offense. I love my teddy!

 

[laulane]

I love mine as well. He sits above my bed every nite keepin look out for anything. He a fox so is quite cunning nd sly lol!! I've registered at 2 dentists nd gonna go for an initial visit 2 each nd then decide which 1 2 stick with or keep looking as there's a few more around the town I not been 2!!! X

 

[kittykat]

youll find the right one. i cant even image going to the dentist without my panda bear

 

[Davee]

You can also use one of those soft, squishy "stress" balls to put in your pocket and squeeze. I think the first hurdle would be to find a kind dentist and I hope your new one is very kind.

 

[laulane]

I couldn't take a stress ball as would be too tempted to throw it if I got agitated. Thnks for the idea tho x

 

[laulane]

I've booked a session of Emotional Freedom Technique Therapy for Thurs 1st August so hoping that will help with phobia and nerves. Has any1 tried this before please? I spoke 2 the lady on the phone earlier and she sounded lovely. X

 

[laulane]

Hi. Just a quick update about Emotional Freedom Technique Therapy. The nerved r building slowly for the morning now but hoping I can relax enough to get a few hours sleep before the morning. I am going to force myself to go no matter how bad I get. I also have accupuncture scheduled for 2moro pm so will update u on tht as well. Does any1 hve any relaxation tips plz? Also has any1 tried any of these methods b4 plz?? Thnks in advance XX

 

[laulane]

Hi. Sorry its a few days late but I'm very hopeful Emotional Freedom Therapy Technique has worked. I had 2 mantra's to repeat, saying the first one many times whilst the therapist tapped on certain points on my body. Once ny phobia rating dropped to zero I said a different mantra. We also talked before and during therapy about my triggers, emotions etc. Friday will be the true test so I'll keep u updated. Thanks x

 

[carole]

Glad to hear that the therapy is going well. Let us know how the dentist appointment went