We recommend you consider the tips below for a comfortable experience at the dentist

Clothing

We recommend loose, comfortable. Dress in layers as you can become cool in the air-conditioning while inactive. Avoid heavy necklaces & ear-rings.

Breathing

While it may be a reflex action to breathe through the mouth while your mouth is opened, (consciously) breathing through the nose will help overcome any gagging tendency, or fluids “going down the wrong way”, as well as generally helping you remain calmer.

You may possibly even benefit by retraining yourself with some breathing exercises – similar to Yoga style breathing. Practise at home by holding some water in your mouth, without swallowing it, and progressively lying back and opening your mouth, whilst continuing to consciously breathe through the nose. This will give you the skills and confidence to survive dental procedures more comfortably!

Music/entertainment

You are welcome to BYO headset/music/DVD. As a default we have an overhead slideshow of landscape photos, + popular music piped in the surgeries.

Your phone

Turn off or mute your phone, to limit distractions.

Blocked nose

If you have a blocked nose, then you may be well advised to use an over-the-counter decongestant nasal spray* (eg Drixine) immediately prior to the appointment.
*As a short term aid ONLY – for longer term use a steroid nasal spray (usually requiring a prescription) is recommended.