Millions of people of all ages experience dental anxiety, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of.
What is Dental Anxiety?
Dental anxiety refers to fear, stress, or nervousness related to dental visits. It can be
triggered by:
- Fear of pain or needles
- A previous negative experience
- Feeling embarrassed about your teeth
- The sound or smell of a dental clinic
- A sense of not being in control
For some people, this fear can turn into dental phobia, where they avoid the dentist
altogether — even when they need urgent care.
Our Approach to Nervous Patients
At Hadfield Family Dental, we are committed to helping you feel calm, comfortable, and in
control throughout your visit. Here’s how:
- We Listen – No Judgement, Just Support
We understand how you feel. Whether it’s your first visit in years or just a routine check-up,
we’re here to listen to your concerns and take things at your pace. - We Use Gentle Techniques and Modern Tools
Our clinic uses the latest technology: quiet drills, pain-free numbing gels, and even nitrous
oxide (happy gas) to ensure treatments are as comfortable as possible. - You’re in Control the Whole Time
You’ll never feel rushed. We keep you informed throughout the process and always check in
with you, making sure you feel comfortable and make it easy for you to pause at any time. - We Create a Calming Environment
Our clinic is designed to feel welcoming from friendly staff to calming music to help you
relax. We also provide extra comfort for children or those with sensory sensitivities, including
headphones, blankets, or breaks.
Tips for Managing Dental Anxiety Before Your Visit
If you’re preparing for a dental appointment and feel the nerves kicking in, try these
strategies:
- Bring a support person – Sometimes having a friend or family member with you can ease nerves.
- Schedule an early appointment – Start your day without worrying.
- Let us know in advance that you’re feeling nervous – We’ll be ready to support you from the moment you arrive.
- Practice calming techniques – Deep breathing or listening to music can help relax you.
- Start small – If it’s been a while, book in just for a chat or a simple check-up. You don’t have to dive into treatment straight away.
For Parents: Helping Children With Dental Anxiety
If your child is afraid of the dentist, we’re here to help. We use friendly language, show tools
before use, let them sit on a parent’s lap, and offer stickers, prizes, and praise. Early positive
experiences help build lifelong confidence.
It’s Time to Feel Good About Visiting the Dentist
At Hadfield Family Dental, we believe everyone deserves access to compassionate dental
care. Our team has helped countless nervous patients feel more confident in the dental
chair. You can be one of them.
Book a no-pressure appointment with us today — we’ll take it from there.
Dr Reem Ali is the Head Dentist at Hadfield Family Dental, having practised for more than two decades as a qualified general dentist. Dr Ali possesses an immense passion for all things dentistry. Over the past 14 years, Dr Ali and her team have served the local Hadfield community by providing comprehensive dental care to patients of all age groups, driven by the steadfast belief that everyone deserves to have a healthy and beautiful smile. Dr Ali has a special interest in the field of Invisalign (clear teeth straighteners) and keeps tabs on advancements made in this area of dentistry.