Dentistry without judgment is the starting point for those who feel fear or shame about smiling. Maybe you've postponed appointments for years. That's okay: here, we embrace your story and help you take the first step with ease.
Why Feeling Shame or Fear is Common – and How We Embrace It
Past experiences, fear of pain, costs, and even the sound of instruments can cause anxiety. This is more common than it seems. That's why our team avoids any moralizing stance and focuses on clear, step-by-step communication.
"Here, no one will ask 'why did it take so long?' We'll ask: 'how can we make this easier for you today?'"
We embrace your story. You are not late; you are starting. Moreover, we value your autonomy so that each decision makes sense for your life.
What Happens During the First Visit (No Surprises)
Predictability reduces anxiety. From the first contact, we calmly explain each step. If you prefer, the first appointment can be just a conversation and evaluation, without procedures.
- Welcoming reception and simple check-in.
- Discussion about expectations, fears, and priorities.
- Medical history and visual clinical examination; X-rays only if you feel comfortable.
- Clear summary of our findings and possible paths.
- If you wish, we schedule a follow-up to start, without rush.
We also offer a first visit without invasive instruments. This way, you get to know the environment, the team, and the pace of care with more confidence.
Comfort and Control Options for You
- Agreed-upon breaks and a hand signal to stop whenever you want.
- Short explanations before each step, in simple language.
- Topical and local anesthesia, when indicated, for pain control.
- Headphones with music, breathing techniques, and attention to your timing.
- Conscious sedation, when recommended and safely, after evaluation.
Additionally, we adopt trauma-informed care principles: respect for continuous consent, predictability, and clear choices at each step.
A Plan at Your Pace: How We Organize Treatment
Our plan is phased and predictable. First, we prioritize comfort and health. Then, we take care of aesthetics and maintenance, according to your goal.
- Short stages, realistic goals, and short-term victories.
- Schedule adjusted to your routine, with respected intervals.
- Time and investment estimate per phase, without surprises.
- Periodic reviews to adapt the path, if necessary.
"You set the pace. We agree on a signal to pause whenever you want."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
<details> <summary>I haven’t been to the dentist in years. Will I be judged?</summary> No. Shame doesn't enter the office — people with stories do. Our role is to welcome and build a feasible plan, at your pace. </details> <details> <summary>Does the first appointment hurt? Can I go just to talk and evaluate?</summary> You can go just to talk. The evaluation is calm and can be without invasive instruments. We explain options for comfort and pain control when necessary. </details> <details> <summary>I’m afraid of needles. What alternatives are there?</summary> We use topical anesthesia before local, breathing techniques, and breaks. In some cases, we recommend conscious sedation after clinical evaluation. </details> <details> <summary>Is it expensive? How do budgeting and payment plans work?</summary> We create budgets by phases, with predictability. We explain payment options and prioritize the essentials first. </details> <details> <summary>I’m embarrassed about my breath/teeth. How do you handle that?</summary> With respect and confidentiality. We investigate causes and show practical care, without judgmental comments. </details> <details> <summary>What if I freeze in the chair? Can I pause whenever I want?</summary> Yes. We agree on a hand signal, and you can stop at any time. </details> <details> <summary>Do you treat people with high anxiety or traumatic experiences?</summary> Yes. We use a welcoming approach, predictable communication, and, when indicated, conscious sedation. </details> <details> <summary>How does conscious sedation work and when is it recommended?</summary> It is a safe technique to reduce anxiety, recommended after evaluation. We explain risks, benefits, and alternatives before deciding together. </details>Connections with Your Overall Health
Inflamed gums and other oral conditions can be linked to body health. Without alarmism: information helps prevent. To learn more, see the WHO fact sheet on oral health.
Accessibility, Inclusion, and Teletriage
We combine simple language and respectful communication with neurodivergent people, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and people with disabilities. We also offer an initial online contact to answer basic questions and reduce initial anxiety.
How to Schedule Your Evaluation Smoothly
You choose where to start. You can send a short message, book a time at your preferred period, or request an initial conversation without procedures.
- Average consultation time: 40 to 60 minutes.
- What to bring: ID, list of medications, and, if you wish, old exams.
- If you feel anxious, let us know in the message. We adjust the service to your pace.
Prefer to take the first step now? Contact our team through the Catharina Novaes Clinic page and choose the channel that is most comfortable for you.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Starting over is possible and can be light. Our invitation is simple: share your main concern, and we will create a plan at your pace, with welcome and predictability. Send a "Hi" to schedule your evaluation or set up an initial conversation. We are here to walk with you, step by step.
