Hals

I had a tremendous dental phobia and would only go to the dentist when something was atrociously bad. I finally got sick of the pain, the ugly smile, the broken root canals and missing crowns, and made an appt. And the guy treated me like trash and was extremely condescending. I was so appalled that I avoided seeking another dentist for half a year. The second dentist--a woman-- was marginally better personality-wise, but she stuck a gum probe into a nascent abscess (after noting the abscess on her chart) and caused me to have a massive infection.

Waited another six months to find yet another dentist, the third in a year. At this point I told myself that my phobia didn't matter, and that I wasn't going to get myself into a lather about either my phobia OR some stranger's demeanor. After all, I am the one paying the bill.

I was able to conquer the phobia fairly well, even considering a significant amount of pain during the first course of extractions. I have been very adamant about MY needs and MY feelings, and have insisted that the dentist work with me and my limitations (for instance, I frequently feel the need to swallow or to briefly sit up). This third dentist never embarrassed me or made me feel awkward; in fact I felt that the state of my mouth was routine and not a big deal.

My advice to you is to shop around, and to find someone with listening skills who is supportive and encouraging. If you don't feel you are being accommodated, find someone else.

In the long run, I found that my own phobia was misplaced. There was nothing to be afraid of and I now regret not realizing this earlier. You will come to a point where the appearance/condition of your mouth is far more important to you than fear ever was, even if it takes you some years to get there. I am convinced you can do this. Find a provider and ask for a consultation. If you like the tone of the office and the personality of the dentist, half the battle is won.

Restoring a smile is a long and sometimes frustrating process. I have no problems asking for consultations when I am not satisfied with something. Do some research on the Internet to familiarize yourself with options and courses of treatment. It will help you to realize that you not only are not alone, but that there ARE solutions.