off drugs and ashamed and terrified to go to the dentist

[Christopher810]

had dental problems for years when I was younger my parents did not take me to the dentist anyways was on drugs for a long time and now I'm clean and Im having a panic attack just typing this I need to go to the dentist I'm in soo much pain and I have no one to help , well I'm just to embarrassed to even ask or get help anyone have suggestions

 

[Dr. Daniel]

Hi. Sorry to read about your difficult situation. This forum and website can be a great source of great advice and support. I would like to share with you a video I made about fear of feeling embarrassed during a dental appointment. Hope it helps.
Fear of embarrassment during a dental visit

 

[letsconnect]

Hi @Christopher810 and welcome!

Most dentists like nothing more than actually using their skills and making a difference - that's what they went to dental school for (doing check-ups isn't actually all that exciting). So they'd be really happy to have you come through their door.

That's not to say that there isn't the occasional dentist who's a bit of an a**hole (like with any profession). Why not email a few dentists who look promising, explain your situation, and see what they say? We've collected some tips for finding a dentist here:

How to find a dentist for nervous patients

Discover how to find a dentist who is good with nervous, scared or phobic patients - and who to avoid!

www.dentalfearcentral.org

How to find a high-quality dentist

How do you know if a dentist really cares about the quality of their work? Here is what to look for and expect from a high-quality dentist.

www.dentalfearcentral.org

I hope you'll be able to find someone kind and caring who can get you out of pain soon