Severe dental phobia.. Appointment TODAY

[FROGLEGS]

Guys I’m new here and it’s currently 3:34AM 6/15/26 and my appointment for the dentist is at 10:40AM. It’s X-rays, cleaning, consult/exam and I’m HORRIFIED. I have a severe dental phobia, as well as SEVERE emetophobia, sensory issues. I haven’t been to the dentist in years and I’m so scared of being/feeling sick. They have an outrageous cancellation fee of anywhere from $75-$250 and I’m fully prepared to pay that honestly. I feel like BOLTING. I have severe bruxism (grind my teeth while asleep) to the point where a few teeth have broken and I’m so scared of sitting in that chair. I want to face my fear but I am shaking, unable to sleep and I’m horrified. I wish I didn’t have this. Any words of encouragement or tips/personal growth stories would be appreciated. I’m trying nnot to cry while writing this.

 

[letsconnect]

Hi @FROGLEGS just wanted to wish you all the best for later today !!

I don’t know if you have seen the resources on this website but there’s a handy patient form (free PDF) which you can fill in and give to the dental team:

https://www.dentalfearcentral.org/media/patient-form.pdf

We usually recommend using the first appointment to just have a chat with the dentist, and find out whether they’re a good match for you and if you like and trust them.

You’ve got this . Please let us know how you get on

 

[FROGLEGS]

@letsconnect hey thanks for the response! I couldn’t get the panels done. But I got a ct scan. Dentist said I had an abscess/infection and would need to see a specialist for a root canal or extraction on my back right molar(s). Might be two teeth but I’m not exactly sure. I’ve never had an infection before so the antibiotics I got a script for will be something new. I’m so embarrassed and scared of the diagnosis. I have to see who will take my insurance and put me under general anesthesia, considering my severe phobia.

 

[FROGLEGS]

@letsconnect thank you for the kind words, I really appreciate you responding and keeping me in the loop

 

[letsconnect]

Well done for going despite being terrified, and not bolting - congratulations @FROGLEGS !!

I'm not sure how exactly things work in the U.S. with regards to insurance and sedation and/or general anaesthesia - I hope it won't be too difficult finding someone! Have you considered IV sedation at all? That might be easier to come by than GA (well it is in the UK at least). We've got some pages here with more info:

IV Sedation

Find out all about IV dental sedation: what does it feel like, is it safe, and how do the sedation drugs midazolam and remimazolam differ?

www.dentalfearcentral.org

Again well done you