I found the forum about a year ago and very carefully looked around because I couldn't discuss teeth or even see anything dental related without feeling that dread and impending doom. I have always been nervous due to bad treatment as a child and some as an adult. But I have always forced myself to go and get treatment.
I am an nhs patient and when they leave and I have to change dentist it is terrible and like the end of the world. I have usually managed to find a good caring and considerate dentist though. I have had a lot of work done over the years.
I still shake in the chair and still can feel sick, on my way last week I hadn't slept for over a week properly, I am not a good sleeper at the best of times. When I did get to sleep I would have nightmares and wake up in a panic. I can replay appointments in my head for some time too. I went to my appointment shaking and felt like I was going to faint, my legs were like jelly. My heart was pounding and I couldn't get my breath, I waited to be called and when the dentist came to get me, he was very cheery and I told him I was nervous he put my mind at rest and explained what was going to happen, he told me if I wanted him to stop he would straight away, and not to worry it would be okay.
It was I have to go back for a few more worries and although I am a bit nervous I will not be the total shaking mess I was. I have had this fear all my life and I can not beat it. But with a good dentist I can get treatment done.
You will too and it will be over and done with. I find if I get there they are very good at getting the job done and keeping me calm in the process. Every time I think, silly that wasn't that bad, next time I will not shake or feel nervous, but I do. So don't worry just get there then let them take care of you.