Do you have a fear of the dentist? Perhaps you are afraid of pain, have had a negative experience, or are dreading a treatment. Sometimes the tension is so great that people do not visit the dentist for years.
At We Smile Tandartsen in Leiden, we understand that a dental visit can be stressful. That is why we take the time to listen to your concerns and discuss what you can expect in advance.
With personal guidance, clear agreements, and modern anesthesia techniques, we strive to make your treatment as comfortable as possible.
Why are people afraid of the dentist?
Dental anxiety is very common. The cause varies per person. Some people are primarily afraid of the anesthetic injection, while others worry about pain or the feeling of having no control.
Common causes include:
- A negative dental experience in the past.
- Fear of pain or anesthesia.
- Tension caused by sounds or dental instruments.
- The feeling of having no control during a treatment.
- Embarrassment about the condition of the teeth.
Sometimes a vicious circle arises: fear leads to avoiding the dentist, which can increase dental problems and make the threshold to return even higher.
It is therefore important to find a dentist with whom you feel at ease.
How do we help patients with dental anxiety?
At We Smile Tandartsen, we believe trust is essential. We begin by listening to your experiences, wishes, and any concerns.
Calm explanation and personal attention
Before a treatment begins, we explain what is going to happen. You will have the opportunity to ask questions, and together we will discuss which approach is pleasant for you.
Maintaining control yourself
During the treatment, you can always indicate if you want to stop. For example, we can agree in advance that you will raise your hand whenever you need a break.
Treatment at your own pace
Not everything has to happen during a single appointment. When multiple treatments are required, we can draw up a treatment plan in several steps together.
This way, you know in advance what will happen and what costs you can expect.
Painless anesthesia with the QuickSleeper
A common cause of dental anxiety is the fear of the anesthetic injection.
At We Smile Tandartsen, we use the QuickSleeper, a computer-controlled anesthesia system that administers the anesthetic fluid in a controlled manner.
Depending on the treatment, the QuickSleeper can be used to deliver the anesthesia directly into the jawbone.
Advantages of this technique may include:
- Controlled and gradual administration of anesthesia.
- Targeted anesthesia around the tooth or molar being treated.
- Less numbness of the lip and cheek in certain applications.
- A comfortable treatment, even for patients who dread anesthesia.
The QuickSleeper does not guarantee a completely painless treatment, but it can contribute to a more pleasant experience.
Read more about the possibilities of painless anesthesia at our practice.
Haven’t been to the dentist for years due to fear?
Have you not visited a dentist for years? Then it can be difficult to make an appointment again.
Perhaps you are worried about the state of your teeth, the possible treatments, or the costs.
During an initial appointment, we will quietly map out your oral health. We discuss your complaints, examine your teeth, and take X-rays if necessary.
No treatment will be performed without your consent.
If problems are found, we discuss which treatments are necessary and what can potentially wait.
You do not have to start an extensive treatment process immediately. An initial introduction is often already an important step.
What can you do yourself against dental anxiety?
Good preparation can help to reduce tension.
- Tell us about your fear in advance. This allows us to take it into account during the appointment.
- Ask questions. Knowing what is going to happen can reduce uncertainty.
- Agree on a stop signal. This allows you to maintain control during the treatment.
- Schedule sufficient time. Try not to arrive at your appointment in a rush.
- Use calm breathing. Breathing slowly and regularly can help you relax.
In cases of severe dental anxiety, additional guidance, for example through a specialized anxiety dentist or psychologist, can be beneficial.
Frequently asked questions about fear of the dentist
Can I just come for an introduction first?
Yes. During an initial appointment, we can discuss your concerns and assess your teeth. Treatment only takes place after consultation and with your consent.
Does a treatment with anesthesia hurt?
With effective local anesthesia, many treatments can be performed without sharp pain. You may feel pressure or movement. Please indicate immediately if you do experience pain, so that we can check the anesthesia.
What if I panic during the treatment?
You can always indicate that you want to stop. We will then take a break and discuss how to proceed.
Can I be treated under general anesthesia?
We Smile Tandartsen does not offer treatments under general anesthesia. In cases of very severe anxiety, we can discuss whether a referral to a specialized healthcare provider is appropriate.
Fear of the dentist? Make an appointment in Leiden
Are you looking for a dentist in Leiden who takes your anxiety into account?
At We Smile Tandartsen, we take your concerns seriously. We work with personal attention, clear communication, and modern anesthesia techniques.
Whether you are coming for a periodic check-up, a painful complaint, or because you haven’t been to the dentist for years: together we will determine which approach suits you.
Would you like to meet us? You can register online or make an appointment.
An initial conversation is a good way to quietly rebuild trust.