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dentist for nervous patients Portishead

How to Overcome Dental Anxiety: A Guide for Nervous Patients

Visiting the dentist can be a stressful experience for many people. If you feel anxious about dental visits, you’re not alone. At Evolve Dentistry, we understand these concerns and are dedicated to providing a comfortable and reassuring environment for all our patients. Here’s a guide to help you manage dental anxiety and make your next visit a positive experience.

Understanding Dental Anxiety

Dental anxiety is a common issue that can stem from various factors, such as:

  • A previous bad experience at the dentist
  • Fear of pain or discomfort
  • A feeling of loss of control during procedures
  • Embarrassment about oral health

Recognising these feelings is the first step toward overcoming them. The good news is that modern dentistry is designed to be as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

Tips to Overcome Dental Anxiety

1. Communicate Your Fears

One of the most effective ways to reduce dental anxiety is to talk to your dentist about your concerns. At Evolve Dentistry, our team is trained to help nervous patients and can adjust treatments to accommodate your needs.

2. Choose a Friendly, Understanding Dentist

Finding a dental practice that prioritises patient comfort can make all the difference. At Evolve Dentistry, we are very used to treating anxious patients with care and compassion.

3. Bring a Friend or Family Member

Having a trusted person with you during your appointment can provide extra reassurance and make the experience less intimidating.

4. Try Relaxation Techniques

Practising relaxation methods before and during your appointment can help ease anxiety. Techniques such as:

  • Deep breathing exercises
  • Meditation or mindfulness
  • Listening to calming music during your treatment

5. Consider Sedation Options

If your anxiety is severe, you may benefit from sedation dentistry. Options like nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or IV sedation can help you feel relaxed during your visit. Our team at Evolve Dentistry can discuss the best option for you.

6. Take It One Step at a Time

If a full dental appointment feels overwhelming, start with a simple consultation or check-up. Gradually getting accustomed to the dental environment can help build confidence over time.

7. Schedule Your Appointment at a Convenient Time

Choose an appointment time when you won’t feel rushed or stressed. Morning appointments may be best to avoid anticipation anxiety building up throughout the day.

Why Choose Evolve Dentistry for a Stress-Free Experience?

At Evolve Dentistry, we are committed to making every patient feel at ease. Our team takes extra steps to ensure your visit is comfortable, including:

  • A calm and welcoming environment
  • Clear explanations of treatments to reduce uncertainty
  • Gentle and patient-focused care

If you experience dental anxiety, know that there are ways to overcome it. Our team is here to support you every step of the way. Book a consultation with Evolve Dentistry today and take the first step toward stress-free dental care.

Check out our CQC report here

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🚦 Travel update for patients 🚦

If you’re visiting us over the next few weeks, please be aware that temporary three-way traffic lights are in place on Harbour Road in Portishead, which is causing some delays.

We kindly ask that you allow a little extra time for your journey so you can arrive relaxed and on time for your appointment.

Thank you for your patience, and we look forward to welcoming you to the practice. 😊
How healthy are your everyday habits? 🦷💚

The NHS Healthy Choices quiz is a simple, helpful way to reflect on small lifestyle habits that can make a big difference to your overall health — including your oral health.

It only takes a few minutes, and you might be surprised by what you learn. No judgement, just gentle guidance and practical tips you can use straight away.

👉 Take the quiz here: https://bit.ly/4sBMx2W

And if you ever want to chat about how your choices affect your smile, our team is always happy to help — you’re never on your own with it at Evolve.

#HealthyChoices #NHSWellbeing #OralHealthMatters #EvolveDentistry #LookingAfterYourSmile
Feeling self-conscious about your smile can affect so much more than just photos.

In this video, Gemma shares her experience of having veneers with Carol at Evolve Dentistry. She explains how she had always felt unhappy with her smile and was also a nervous patient — something many people can relate to.

From her very first visit, Gemma felt welcomed and supported by the whole team. The friendly, calm approach at Evolve helped her feel more relaxed and confident throughout her treatment.

Now, she’s absolutely overjoyed with her results and finally feels comfortable smiling again.

Thank you, Gemma, for trusting us and for sharing your story 💙
Looking after your oral hygiene at home makes a real difference to your long-term dental health 🦷

In this video, Jessica shares a few simple, everyday tips you can do at home to help keep your teeth and gums healthy between visits. Nothing complicated — just small changes that can have a big impact over time.

Whether you’re brushing twice a day already or feel like your routine could use a refresh, this is a great place to start.

If you ever have questions about your home care routine, our team is always happy to help. 💙
✨ Currently welcoming new patients ✨

We care for a limited number of patients so we can offer calm, considered dental care.

Right now, we’re able to welcome new patients to Evolve Dentistry. If you’ve been thinking about joining a local practice in Portishead, we’d love to hear from you.

📞 Contact reception on 01275 842 550
Appointments are available at this week’s wrinkle clinic on Thursday ✨

If you’ve been thinking about booking an appointment, we currently have availability this week. Our team will take the time to talk through your options and answer any questions you may have, with no pressure.

📞 Please contact reception to book or to find out more.
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