Gentle Dentistry Farnham

Helping you to feel comfortable and relaxed

At Time Dental, we realise that going to the dentist can be a daunting experience. Dental anxiety is very common and you are not alone. We aim to make all our patients feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible when they walk into our practice, to ensure that you receive the treatment you need without any unwanted stress or anxiety.

Creating positive associations

People often associate the dentist with pain, whether it is due to injections, the dentist drill or prior negative experience. The truth is that if you put off going to the dentist until you are suffering from unbearable pain, this will ultimately be detrimental to your oral health. Regular check-ups with your dentist at Time Dental will allow us to keep an eye on your oral health, treating any unseen or developing conditions. We are dedicated to working together with you to create a more positive visit to the dentist.

Speak with us about gentle dentistry

Comfortable experience

We recognise that going to the dentist can be a big step for some patients. Our caring dental team will do all they can to make your time with us as pleasant and stress-free as possible. We have designed our practice to be a calming oasis, with soothing music, a selection of DVDs to choose from, and even the choice of a blanket to help you relax during treatment. We are happy to always go the extra mile to help ease any anxiety you may be feeling, and tailor our care to your needs.

Treatment can be carried out under local anaesthetic if you are worried about a particular procedure. Also, if you are worried about the initial pain of the injection we will apply topical anaesthetic to numb your gums and prevent any unnecessary pain. We want to make sure you enjoy your time with us and we are committed to changing your perception of the dentist.

Gentle dentistry is a way of life at Time Dental and we will be happy to assist you throughout the treatment process.

What is gentle dentistry?

Gentle dentistry, also known as compassionate or minimally invasive dentistry, focuses on providing dental care in a comfortable and stress-free environment. We prioritise patient comfort and well-being, employing techniques aimed at minimising discomfort and anxiety during our dental procedures.

Gentle dentistry differs from traditional dentistry in its approach to patient care. While traditional dentistry focuses primarily on addressing dental issues, gentle dentistry places equal emphasis on patient comfort and emotional well-being. Gentle dentists often use techniques such as sedation, numbing agents, and patient education to ensure a relaxed and pain-free experience for their patients.

Who can benefit from gentle dentistry?

Anyone who experiences dental anxiety or discomfort during dental procedures can benefit from gentle dentistry. Additionally, patients with sensitive teeth or gums, as well as those who have had negative experiences with dental care in the past, may find gentle dentistry particularly beneficial. Gentle dentistry is suitable for children and adults alike, as it promotes a positive and stress-free approach to dental care.

Gentle dentistry can be applied to a wide range of dental treatments, from routine cleanings and exams to more complex procedures such as fillings, root canals, and extractions.

Frequently asked questions

How do dentists help nervous patients?

Dentists often use various techniques to help nervous patients feel more comfortable during dental appointments. These may include explaining procedures thoroughly, using calming techniques such as deep breathing exercises, providing distractions like music or TV, offering sedation options for more severe anxiety, and establishing a trusting and supportive relationship with the patient.

How do I go to the dentist with severe anxiety?

If you have severe anxiety about going to the dentist, it’s essential to communicate your concerns with your dentist beforehand. They can provide reassurance, explain procedures in detail, offer sedation options to help you relax during the appointment, and may even recommend techniques such as deep breathing exercises or listening to calming music. Establishing a trusting relationship with your dentist and discussing your fears openly can help make the experience more manageable.

How can I calm my nerves at the dentist?

Gentle dentistry incorporates various techniques and technologies to minimise discomfort during dental procedures. These may include:

Sedation dentistry – administering oral sedatives or nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help patients relax and alleviate anxiety.
Topical anaesthetics – applying numbing gels or sprays to the treatment area before administering local anaesthesia to minimise the sensation of the injection.
Gentle touch – using a light touch and ergonomic dental instruments to minimise discomfort during treatments.
Patient education – explaining procedures in detail and addressing any concerns or questions to help patients feel more comfortable and informed.

Can dentists tell if you have anxiety?

Yes, dentists can often tell if a patient has anxiety based on their behaviour, body language, and verbal cues during appointments. If you feel anxious about visiting the dentist, it’s essential to communicate your feelings openly with them so they can provide appropriate support and accommodations to help you feel more comfortable.