Nervous About the Dentist? Calm, Gentle Care in Ashburton

How we help

Sedation

Sedation is available on request. Ask us when you book.

If you need more than that

Some people are anxious enough, or need treatment complex enough, that sedation is the right answer. Tell us and we will talk it through with you.

Common questions

How to tell us you are nervous

Just say it. When you call (03) 9885 7588, tell the front desk you are nervous. If you book online, add a note. You do not need to explain why. It helps us give you a bit more time and keeps you from feeling rushed.

It also helps to tell us what bothers you most. Common ones are:

• needles
• the sound of the drill
• gagging, or lying back
• feeling out of control
• a bad experience in the past
• worry about the cost.

Knowing this lets your dentist plan around it. If you are more comfortable speaking Korean, Dr Mee Kim speaks Korean.

Signals you can use

We agree on signals before we start, so you do not have to speak with your mouth open.

• Raise your hand: we stop.
• Thumbs up: you are fine to keep going.
• Tap your chest or shoulder: you want to sit up or take a break.

Your first visit

You can sit up in the chair and talk first. Your dentist has a look with a small mirror, tells you what they see, and explains your options and costs. X-rays are taken only if you agree. Nothing else happens unless you say yes. Many people then start with something small, like a check-up and clean.

Choosing a time that suits you

• An early appointment means less time to worry during the day.
• Pick a day with nothing else straight after, so you are not watching the clock.
• We are open Monday to Saturday. A Saturday may suit if you would rather not leave work.
• Bring headphones and your own music if that helps you relax.

In pain right now? Do not wait until you feel ready. Call us or see our emergency dentist page. Getting you out of pain comes first, and the rest can wait.

More questions about nervous patients

What if I lose my nerve and want to cancel?

Call us and we will move it. We would rather change the time than have you not come at all. If the full appointment feels like too much, we can book a shorter visit instead, just to talk and have a look.

Do I have to have X-rays at my first visit?

No. Your dentist will explain why X-rays can help find problems that cannot be seen by eye. If you would rather wait, that is your choice. We can take them at a later visit, once you feel more settled.

My child is nervous too. Can you help?

Yes. Children often pick up on a parent’s worries, so a calm, short first visit helps. You can stay with your child the whole time. See our children’s dentist page for what to expect.