Share your story
Talk about what worries your child and what helps. A favourite soft toy can be a comforting way to start the conversation.
Dental anxiety / children & adultsA small step.
A small step.
At your own pace.
Does your mind feel like a crowded waiting room? You don't have to hide your fear to feel welcome. We begin with what you need.
Find your first stepRoom for questions. Room for a pause.
You are more
than your fear.
Sabrina has extensive experience with patients who find dental visits stressful, particularly children. Explore ways to talk about your worries, with room for your own story.
What feels difficult? Choose what matters to you.
Understand first. Then move forward.
Ask for a simple explanation, one step at a time. Your child can first hear and see what will happen. Discuss how much detail feels helpful.
This hand says:
pause.
Agree on a pause signal together. Raising your hand can let the dentist know you would like a break. Discuss beforehand how this will work during treatment.
A little practice on this page. You can say what you need.
A visit begins
with getting acquainted.
Look around together
Ask whether there is time to get to know the chair and the room. Discuss the purpose of the first visit.
Agree on what you need
Decide what explanation you want, which signal means a pause, and what the next step will be.
One manageable step
You don't have to resolve every worry in one visit. Discuss what feels possible today and what needs attention later.
A familiar face.
A calm voice.
Keep the story simple
Explain calmly what a dentist does. Avoid frightening stories and promises such as ‘you won't feel anything’.
Make room for the question
‘What would you like to know first?’ invites a different conversation from ‘don't be scared’. Listen without dismissing the feeling.
Discuss your role
Ask how you can support your child. Agree with the dentist on your presence and how explanations will be given.
There is no shame
in where you start.
Perhaps it has been a long time. Perhaps you have a difficult memory. Your conversation can begin with one sentence: ‘I find this stressful.’
Find your first stepSmall questions.
Clear answers.
Can the first appointment be a chance to meet?
Ask when booking. Discuss in advance what you would and would not like to happen during that visit.
What if my child isn't ready yet?
Let the practice know beforehand. Discuss what a suitable visit might look like and whether extra support is needed.
Do I need to overcome my fear first?
No. You can contact the practice to talk about your fear. You can write down your questions and boundaries beforehand.
What if my fear is very strong?
Discuss suitable support or a referral, for example to a specialist dentist or a centre for special dental care.
Your first step
can be small.
When you contact the practice, mention that you or your child finds visits stressful. Ask about meeting Sabrina and discuss what is possible.
Call the practice