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How Can I Get Over My Dental Phobia?

I have long been a sufferer from a seemingly ridiculous acute phobia of dental work. On the few occasions I have recently plucked up the courage to sit in a dentist chair (and only due to extreme pain) I have taken the antibiotics prescribed and not gone back for the necessary work. This is deeply distressing and I can’t really explain why I can’t bring myself to go back.Is there anything you can do to help with my phobia and anxiety related to having much needed dental work done? The thought of even walking into a dentist fills me with dread and my heart rate begins to increase and I start sweating!

Anyway, any help or advice would be greatly appreciated!

Hello. It’s not uncommon for people with dental fear to go when in pain, then opt out of further treatment when the pain goes.
I’m not sure where you live, but you might seek some help from the dental telephone counsellor at Anxiety UK (see website). In London there is a service for this at Guys Hospital, where dental phobics can get psychological help with their phobia.
Your doctor may be able to refer you to a psychologist for help to get through the initial anxiety and panic feelings about returning. Hope this helps, Jenny. 

Answer provided by: Dr Jennifer Pinder Retired
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