Embarrassed and scared

[Nervousperson]

My mouth is in a terrible state. I need words of encouragement or moral support to get myself to the dentist.
My last dentist was just awful and it’s made it so much worse to go back. I made a complaint and was given a different dentist to see at the same practice but I’m still so scared, I haven’t been back to even meet him yet.
The last dentist said I need 5 molars out and 3 wisdom teeth. I need this so badly because it’s painful to eat, I haven’t eaten anything crispy or crunchy in years now and it’s too much. I just can’t see how I can go through with having these teeth out, or how I’ll eat after with gaps everywhere. I’ve been referred for sedation but have been told to expect to wait years for that appointment and I don’t think I can.
If you have any comforting words or have been through similar, I’d love to hear about it.

 

[Enarete]

Hi Nervousperson ,

I'm so sorry to read about your last dentist, that's awful! It can be so damaging when you finally pluck up the courage and see a dentist and they mess up completely, making you even more scared than before. If I were you I'd have difficulties coming back too.
One thing to consider: where there is no trust, there can be no treatment. You need a dentist you trust and feel comfortable with, who can get you through the treatment. If you saw the new dentist, would that be supposed to be for the treatment straight away or can you get a consultation to meet him and see how you feel? ALso, would seeking a second opinion be an idea? There are so many lovely dentists out there, there must be one for you too.

All the best wishes