Top 3 most common dental fears

Dr Gordon Tam • August 14, 2020

We understand what holds you back from going to a dental visit. We are here to assure you that there is little to fear when you have a better understanding of what we do. 

What are you afraid of seeing a dentist?


We want to understand more about what the most common dental fears are among you and me. To address these fears effectively, we must first understand what they are. 


  • Fear of the Unknown
  • Fear of Pain
  • Bill Shock


We commonly hear from our patients these few fears that are holding them back from making a dental appointment or even cancelling one at the last minute!


Fear of the Unknown


This is one of the biggest, most common and dreadful fears that anyone can have. When we do not know what lies at the end of the road, we are reluctant to move even an inch forward. Students who are ill-prepared are dreadful of exams. Toddlers who have not tried a new food may think twice before trying. The less knowledge about something, the less adventurous and confident you will be. You will be more sceptical about trying out new things, food and experiences. 


We want to eliminate your (dental) fear of the unknown once and for all! 


During your first appointment and even subsequent appointments, whenever you have any questions, we make sure your concerns are heard. We reserve sufficient time to listen to your concerns and your expectations. 


In this way, we establish connections and improve communication between each other. You get to understand how we conduct our oral examination, so that we can detect any dental issues and raise these concerns with you. We like to call it ‘you see what we see’. Through the intraoral camera, we used to take images of your individual tooth and tooth surfaces. You will get to go for an exploration inside your mouth which you may never have seen so closely and clearly before.


Fear of Pain


Of course, everyone is afraid of pain, and everyone has a different threshold for pain. We want to reassure you that we try our best to minimise the ‘pain’ that you may experience during the treatments. There are multiple ways we want to address that.

  • Topical anaesthetic gel 
  • Warmed anaesthetic cartridges to 42 degrees celsius have clinically proven to reduce the ‘impact’ of pain that you may experience when the jab is administered
  • Option of sedation for complex treatments and nervous patients


With a better understanding of your dental treatments, we can better plan these treatments around your schedule. You will not be caught having a numbed lip for an important function in the evening!


Bill Shock


After mustering the courage to go to the dental appointment, the last thing you want is to be shocked by the bill after the treatment. At our clinic, you won't experience any bill shock. 


After a thorough examination during your appointment with us, our doctor will share with you any dental issues to be aware of. A customised treatment plan, including treatment options, fees, and the time required for each treatment, is clearly outlined for your consideration. We will only proceed with your approval. 


You will clearly know what treatment we are having for your next appointment. Not only that, but you can also plan your schedule and budget well in advance. 


Are you feeling better after reading this? For added assurance, schedule an appointment with us today! You get to understand more in detail. The more you understand, the less (dental) fear you will have.

Schedule an appointment with us NOW! Call us at 6463 8588 or WhatsApp to 9815 5336


To serve you better, we are available by Appointment Only. 

Please contact us to schedule an appointment.

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