Severe fear and anxiety of being in a dentist office. is there anything to help?

Perhaps sedation : You are not alone. Many people fear going to the dentist. First find a dentist that you can trust and build a relationship with. Dentists have options that can you with your anxieties. Nitrous (gas) or sedatives can be used to help you get through the procedures. In my office I use an all natural relaxation system called nucalm. See if you can find a local dentist who uses this. It is great.

Search for help: In our office we offer nitrous oxide analgesia, and additional oral medication as needed to aid anxious patients. A calming reassurance that every effort will be made to assure patient comfort also helps our patients, as well as a prearranged stop signal that will allow us to interrupt or stop treatment if patients desire. If all else fails, we refer to a specially trained colleague.

Yes!: Call the dentist & tell them exactly how you feel & ask them for a "visit" type appointment where you just go in, meet the dentist and staff, tour the office, discuss your concerns. Since absolutely no treatment will be performed you can go with an open mind not concerned about the actual dental treatment and I am sure you will feel better about actually becoming a patient. Good success to you.

You do need to go in: Sedation dentistry may be for you. You still need to go into the office but if your dentist does sedation you can go to "sleep" and wake up and be done your dentistry. You also may need to find an office that caters to people that are afraid. Either option should work for you. Just convey what your fears are and the right office should be able to help you.

This actually works!: I have been practicing for many years and occasionally have a patient who is extremely apprehensive & holds off treatment for years 1. You must commit to taking that 1st step. 2. Get a recommendation from someone you trust. 3. Explain to the office your concerns when you call. 4. Discuss your fears with the dentist. 5. Ask to go slow and be gentle. 6. Give him\her a chance.

Dental anxiety: Many people experience sever dental phobia and as a result may end up with the need for a great deal of dental treatment. Many patients experience relief with anti-anxiety medications such as valium or Ativan (lorazepam) and need a driver to take them to their appt. There are also sleep dentists who can provide twilight sleep up to general anesthesia and will do as much as possible to minimize # of visits.