If you need dental implant treatment but anxiety is holding you back, you’re not alone.

According to a study by Censuswide in May 2024, 76% of adults in the UK put off going to the dentist due to nerves and dental phobias.

The key reasons given for being nervous? Fear of pain, fear of needles or simply being afraid of visiting the dentist.

The causes of dental anxiety

Dental anxiety is often associated with past traumatic experiences with memories of pain, feeling out of control or a fear of dental equipment.

The sounds of the dentist drill, and the smells of the surgery such as the antiseptic used to keep everything sterile, can both trigger anxiety – and who can forget that ancient clove smell from early-day materials!

Symptoms of dental anxiety

Patients experience dental anxiety in different ways.

  • Heart palpitations or racing heart
  • Raised blood pressure
  • Feeling sweaty
  • Dry mouth
  • Hyperventilation
  • Feeling suffocated
  • Trembling
  • An urge to gag
  • A feeling of dread leading up to the appointment.

Caring for nervous patients at David Neal Dental

At David Neal Dental, our dentists specialise in helping nervous dental patients overcome their anxiety, allowing them to feel completely safe throughout their dental implant journey.

“The good news is your fears don’t need to be an insurmountable barrier to treatment,” says Dr Michael Zybutz, lead surgeon and co-founder.

“We’re known for our commitment to outstanding patient care, making your treatment into a truly life-affirming experience.

An understanding, patient and gentle approach, sometimes using state-of-the-art sedation options including conscious sedation, routinely achieves this.

Our ethos of personalised, compassionate support helps turn a dreaded encounter into a successful visit.”

  • Specialist-led clinical care

At David Neal Dental our implants are placed by a General Dental Council registered specialist periodontist and oral surgeons who have the skills and experience to safely and successfully treat even the most complex cases.

Finding a dental surgeon and team that you trust to deliver the clinical and outcomes you are hoping for, gives you peace of mind and reduces anxiety.

  • Calm, welcoming surgeries

“Our surgeries are specifically designed to be peaceful, comfortable and supportive settings where you feel in control, “says Michael.

When you walk in though our doors, we do everything possible to make you feel calm and safe.”

Our reception areas are welcoming and clutter free, our treatment rooms private and state-of-the-art.

We play soothing background music, and patients select their viewing from a flat screen TV above their comfortable reclining chair during treatment.

  • We listen and put your needs first

We routinely treat people with the most extreme dental challenges.

It’s not unusual for patients who have avoided dental treatment to feel embarrassed about sharing the condition of their teeth and oral health.

Afterwards, many patients tell us what made the difference wasn’t just the dental work, it’s how we listen without making them feel judged.

Whether caused by hereditary issues, trauma (such as a sporting accident) or neglect, our role is simply to find the right solution for you.

  • Complimentary implant consultations

At your initial consultation we perform a gentle mouth examination and discuss our findings.

We talk about your goals and wishes and discuss all your options, guiding you through so you know what to expect at every step.

Your consultation is also an opportunity to talk about your anxieties and to ask any questions you may have.

“We believe that building trust is the first step in delivering truly transformational implant care,” says Michael.

  • Sedation for virtually pain free surgery

At David Neal Dental, dental implant treatment – even for full jaw replacement – is virtually pain-free.

Patients often expect a lot of pain both during the procedure and after,” says Michael, “But that’s just not the case.”

During surgery, all patients are gently administered with a paste containing topical anaesthetic with advanced numbing pain relief.

For more lengthy procedures such as All on 4, we also offer conscious sedation / IV sedation, where patients feel deeply relaxed.

This is administered by our specialist sedationist who remains with the patient, ensuring they are comfortable and pain-free throughout surgery.

Most patients don’t even remember the procedure and wake up feeling like it was over in minutes.

Any post-surgical discomfort is easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen.

  • Personalised care for nervous patients

Every part of your treatment is designed around your comfort level and personal needs. We encourage you to talk to us about your wishes and fears.

Every patient has an assigned Treatment Co-ordinator who’s there to support you through every step and keep you fully informed. They are there to answer any questions or concerns you may have, however big or small. A well-informed patient friend, in effect.

We allow plenty of time, so you never feel rushed.

  • Sharing patient stories

We are proud to share reviews, testimonials, case studies and before and after images of the patients we have helped.

Hearing first-hand experiences from people who have shared the same issues and completed the process is both resonant and reassuring, especially for nervous patients.

 5 tips for reducing dental anxiety

  1. Let us know if you’re especially nervous

Letting us know you’re anxious means we can tailor your experience, take things slowly, and explain each step clearly.

  1. Bring a friend or support person

Having someone familiar and that you trust with you can offer emotional reassurance.

  1. Use breathing techniques

Deep breathing helps calm your nervous system.

Try inhaling slowly for 4 seconds, holding for 4 seconds, and exhaling for 6. Repeat as needed.

  1. Agree on a ‘stop’ signal

Sometimes, just knowing you can pause at any time helps reduce fear. Agree on a simple hand signal with your dentist before starting.

Remember, you are in control and we will always stop if you need us to.

  1. Use headphones or distractions

Bring your own music, an audiobook, or even a calming podcast.

Distraction helps take your mind off the procedure and makes the time pass faster.

Take the first step – we’re here to help

Don’t let fear hold you back from a brand new, healthy smile.

Every member of our team is highly trained and experienced in caring for nervous patients.

Your safety – and a positive treatment experience – is our primary focus, so take the first step and contact us today.

Book a Free Consultation