Nervous About the Dentist? A Practical Guide for Ballarat Patients
If the thought of a dental appointment makes your stomach drop, you're not unusual, and you don't need to "just get over it" before you book. The most useful thing you can do is tell us you're nervous when you call. That one sentence lets our team slow things down, explain each step and plan around what worries you most.
This guide covers why dental anxiety is so common, what to say when you book, small things that make the day easier, and what to do if you're anxious and dealing with a toothache right now.
You're far from the only one
Dental fear is one of the most common anxieties in Australia. Research summarised by the NHMRC found about one in seven Australian adults has high dental fear, and almost a third of those people hadn't seen a dentist in ten years or more.
The same research found fear isn't only caused by a bad experience in the past. Plenty of people feel anxious because a visit feels out of their control, or because they don't know what's going to happen next. That's good news, because both of those can be changed.
Why waiting usually makes it harder
Putting off the dentist is understandable, but small problems rarely stay small. According to HCF, people who avoided the dentist were about one and a half times more likely to need major dental work later.
A small cavity is usually a quick filling. Left for a year or two, the same tooth can need root canal treatment or an extraction. Regular check-ups keep treatment simpler, and they also help each visit feel more familiar.
What to tell us when you book
When you call (03) 5331 2755 or book online, let us know you're anxious. You don't need to explain why. It helps us if you can share:
- What worries you most: needles, the sound of the drill, gagging, the cost, or not knowing what's coming
- Whether a past appointment went badly
- What time of day suits you. Some people prefer an early appointment so they don't spend the day worrying
- Whether you'd like to bring someone with you
If you'd rather, you can also write this in the message box on our online booking form.
Things that can help on the day
None of these are rules. Pick the ones that sound right for you.
- Agree on a stop signal. Before treatment starts, agree with your dentist on a simple signal, like raising your hand, that means "I need a break."
- Ask us to talk you through it. Knowing what's about to happen, and roughly how long it will take, takes away a lot of the uncertainty.
- Bring headphones. Music or a podcast can soften the sounds of the treatment room.
- Slow your breathing. Breathing in slowly through your nose and out for a little longer can help settle your nerves before and during treatment.
- Bring a support person. A friend or family member in the waiting room can make the trip feel easier.
- Plan something nice afterwards. A coffee in town or a walk around Lake Wendouree gives you something to look forward to.
If anxiety makes it hard to get through the door at all, it's worth talking to your GP too. They can help with strategies or a referral.
Good questions to ask before treatment
Asking questions is one of the easiest ways to feel more in control. You're always welcome to ask:
- What are you going to do, and why?
- Will I feel anything, and how will you keep me comfortable?
- How long will it take?
- What are my options, including doing nothing for now?
- What will it cost?
Nervous and in pain right now?
A toothache can turn dental anxiety into something urgent. We prioritise dental emergencies and aim to relieve your pain as quickly as possible.
Call us on (03) 5331 2755 and tell us two things: that you're in pain, and that you're nervous. We're open Monday 8:30am to 5:30pm, Tuesday 9:00am to 5:30pm, and Wednesday to Friday 8:30am to 5:30pm.
If you have facial swelling that is affecting your breathing or swallowing, don't wait for a dental appointment. Call 000 or go to your nearest hospital emergency department.
Worried about the cost?
Cost is a common source of dental stress, and it's fine to ask about it before anything starts. We accept all major health funds and use HICAPS, so many patients can claim on the spot. Interest-free payment plans are available through Westpac. You can read more about our payment options.
Frequently asked questions
It's been years since I saw a dentist. Will I be judged?
No. Many people come back after a long gap, and our job is to help from wherever you're starting. Telling us how long it's been simply helps us plan your first visit.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes, many anxious patients find it helps. Mention it when you book so we can let you know what works best on the day.
What if I need a break during treatment?
Use the stop signal you agreed with your dentist. We'll pause, check in with you, and only carry on when you're ready.
My child is nervous about the dentist. What can I do?
Keep the language calm and simple, and try not to share your own worries in front of them. We see patients of all ages, and starting check-ups early helps visits become routine.
Take the first step
Ballarat Dental Group has treated local families for generation, from our office in Ballarat Central. If you've been putting off a visit, call (03) 5331 2755 or book online, and let us know you're nervous. You can also meet our dentists before you come in.
