Fear of the dentist is not uncommon—delaying the appointment is often a legitimate way to avoid discomfort. Over time, however, small problems can grow. Here, the conversation comes before any procedure, without judgment and at your own pace.
Why Do We Delay? Understanding the Cycle of Avoidance
When fear arises, it's natural to avoid the appointment. Initially, this brings relief. Later, the problem may worsen, and shame or anxiety increases. Thus, the cycle of fear → delay → worsening → more fear repeats. The good news is that it can be broken with a safe first step: talking about how you feel.
What Changes When We Speak Without Judgment
Putting fear into words already reduces uncertainty. Additionally, understanding your triggers—sound, smells, needles, chair position, past experiences—allows for creating a care plan with breaks, agreed signals, and simple explanations. Therefore, every decision is made together with you.
First Conversation in Porto: What to Expect
- Welcoming meeting, without invasive procedures.
- Attentive listening to your story and fears.
- Mapping triggers and agreeing on a signal word to pause.
- Step-by-step explanation, without surprises, and at your pace.
- Joint decision on next steps; no pressure to treat on the same day.
- Average duration of 30–45 minutes, with calmer times (early morning or mid-afternoon).
- Easy access by metro/bus and nearby parking.
If you prefer, visit just to get to know the space and the team. For practical details, also see our consultations in Porto.
Practical Strategies for the Next Appointment
- 4-6 Breathing: inhale counting to 4, exhale counting to 6, for 2–3 minutes.
- Agreed signal word and pauses before starting.
- Schedule at a quieter time, with plenty of time.
- Bring a trusted companion, if desired.
- Use headphones with a calm playlist.
- Request short and predictable explanations, step by step.
- Do a mental "rehearsal" of the route and arrival to reduce uncertainty.
Comfort Options and Conscious Sedation
- Topical anesthesia before local anesthesia, to reduce sensitivity.
- Modern local anesthesia techniques, with slow and careful application.
Planning Care in Small Steps
We start with the simplest. First, the conversation. Then, a cleaning or short exam. Next, we move forward as your confidence grows. Thus, each step reinforces the feeling of safety.
Real Stories of Welcoming
With patient consent (fictitious names):
- “Marta arrived trembling, but agreeing on the signal word gave me control. I managed to do the exam without panic.”
- “For João, we started just with a tour of the space. He returned the following week for the first cleaning, all at his own pace.”
Pre-Appointment Checklist
- What makes me most anxious?
- What signs should the professional watch for to pause?
- Do I prefer music? Which one?
- Do I want detailed or summarized explanations?
- Are there smells, lights, or sounds that bother me?
Sample Scheduling Message
Hello! I have anxiety about appointments. I would like to start with a conversation without procedure. Can I explain my fears and agree on pause signals?
Simple Trigger and Preference Form
- Drill sound
- Being fully reclined
- Needles
- Long time in the chair
- Smells
- Bright light
Mini FAQ
What if I feel ashamed of my teeth?
No judgments. The goal is to care, not blame. We go step by step.
Can I go just to see the space?
Yes. A brief visit reduces uncertainty and helps build trust.
How does nitrous oxide work?
It is inhaled through a mask. You stay awake and calmer. The indication is individual and decided with the team, after evaluation and consent.
What if I want to stop in the middle?
We use the signal word and pause whenever you need. No rush.
How to Schedule and Next Steps
Want to start just with a conversation? Send a message on WhatsApp and say what scares you. We'll agree on signals and pauses, at your pace.
Schedule conversation on WhatsApp
Prefer to read more before scheduling? Visit our consultations in Porto. Calmer times are available.
