Is it normal to break down in the waiting room?

[Zara818]

I’ve always had bad teeth mostly just happy but somehow between 2021 and 2023 from drink Coca Cola everyday I’ve somehow got 8 cavities and 7 fillings now?? I’m scared soo so scared I’m 16 and I hate the dentist.
I’m going to see a new one and I’m afraid I’ll be judged I’m only getting one pulled and an examination on Thursday.
I don’t know if I’d be allowed to listen to music while it happens I just don’t want to go.
I feel like I’ll have a panic attack I can’t stand it the metal and the chair and all the glass scares me and now im getting the metal put into my mouth with needles??! God help me

 

[Zara818]

*Gappy in the first sentence it wrote happy.

 

[Dr. Daniel]

Hi Zara. Please allow me to share with you some videos I did that might be helpful, they all deal with the power relations between relations a dentist and the patient, and the negative emotions that come along dental anxiety per say, emotions such as self blaming, embarrassment and more.
Fear of authoritarian dentists

Fear of embarrassment during a dental visit

Self blaming, shame and guilt in light of dental problems

Hope you find it helpful.

 

[NervousUSA]

@Zara818 I am sorry you have to deal with this, it is really hard, sometimes I think the run up to the appointment and the time in the waiting room is the hardest part. I suggest you check out the 54321 coping technique and box breathing, these things make me feel a lot better. This is the video I use for box breathing https://player.vimeo.com/video/94253607
When it comes to judgement, dentists these days tend to be unlikely to judge and shame. They are more likely just to try and help you. I didn't go to a dentist for 19 years and didn't get judged and shamed. Maybe you can call or email them and ask if it is OK to listen to music? In case this helps, I can tell you for me it is a relief to get these appointments over with, and I tell myself I will feel way better once the whole thing is over. Hope this helps and good luck!