A dental practice in Clacton is offering NHS patients suffering from dental phobia the option to have routine treatments under sedation in a bid to improve dental health in the area.
According to the British Dental Association, 25 per cent of people suffer some form of anxiety before they visit a dentist and fear is the second most common reason people avoid seeking treatment (1). In its most severe form, dental phobia, which effects 12 per cent of the population, can prevent people from seeking dental treatment even when they are experiencing high levels of discomfort and pain.
mydentist assistant practice manager Rebecca English said: “We’re the only dental practice in the area to offer intravenous sedation for routine treatments including fillings, root canals and crowns for patients who are suffering from Dental Phobia. We want people to know about the service so they don’t suffer from dental pain and feel they have nowhere to go because their fear of the dentist is greater than the pain they are suffering.
“Our professional team can recognise dental anxiety and in the majority of cases are able to treat patients without the need for sedation but for those who require it we can provide the full service from our purpose-built practice.
“We find our environment really helps too. People are put at ease by the jasmine-scented waiting room and the grey and teal green décor. And we’re taking on new NHS patients so would encourage anyone who hasn’t visited the dentist for a while – even if they are a bit nervous about it - to get in touch.”
Dental Phobia is an extremely distressing condition and is characterised by an individual who avoids dental treatment, regardless of its necessity or whether they are experiencing discomfort or pain.
People suffering with dental phobia can be recognised by the following criteria:
- A persistent fear of the specific object or situation that is excessive or unreasonable
- An immediate anxiety response upon exposure to the feared situation which may take the form of a panic attack
- Recognition that the fear is excessive or unreasonable
- Avoidance of the anxiety-producing situation
- The fear experienced interferes with normal functioning or causes marked distress.
The benefits of intravenous sedation include:
- It relaxes people and provides a fear and anxiety free experience
- It provides a pain free experience during treatment
- It feels to the patient as if the treatment is over very quickly
- Treatment that would normally be carried out during multiple appointments can be completed during one visit.
Six dentists work from the purpose-built practice at 129 Old Road, Clacton providing NHS and private dentistry. Private treatment options also include anti-ageing treatments such as facial fillers, and teeth straightening, such as the Six Month Smile.
The practice has ample on-site parking and is close to the station and local bus routes. It is open Monday to Wednesday between 8.00 and 5.30, Thursday 9.00 to 5.30, Friday 9.00 to 4.00 and Saturday 9.00 to 2.00.
To make an appointment patients should call 01255 422502