Nervous or Anxious Patients

Book Appointment

First-Time Patient?

Exam, x-rays, and Cleaning for only €120!

Information for Nervous or Anxious Patients

 

We at Bishopstown Dental Clinic are aware that a visit to our dental clinic can sometimes be stressful for some of you or for someone you know. Levels of anxiety can vary from mild to moderate anxiety to dental phobia. We realise that this anxiety can be very distressing and it is our aim to put you at much at ease as possible.

We try to practice dentistry with a holistic approach, making your visit to us as pleasant as possible. We operate a standard procedure for all patients which helps to put our clients at much at ease as possible.

Procedures to aid Nervous Patients

  •  The routine use of topical anaesthetic gel for all injections. This gel makes the injection pain-free as the skin is already numb before you have the injection.
  • The routine use of Oraqix for all patients with sensitive teeth. Our clinic is probably the first in Cork to routinely use Oraqix (we have been using it since 2008) Oraqix is a needle-free anaesthetic which is applied to the gums before cleanings taking all the discomfort from the procedure. Unlike local anaesthetic it wears off in 20 minutes so you are not left with that stiff lip feeling for the rest of the day. Having your teeth cleaned no longer has to be uncomfortable with this revolutionary gel.
  • We instruct all clients to raise their hand if they feel the slightest discomfort. We promise not to proceed any further with treatment that is unpleasant.

We do realise that there are those of you who suffer from dental anxiety or dental phobia who will need extra consideration. For your first visit we recommend that you do no dental treatment except for an examination and probably some x-rays. Your dentists will then go through the treatment plan with you and discuss ways by which we can put you most as ease to have the treatment carried out.
Frank uses both oral sedation and/or hypnotherapy to help clients with dental anxiety.

Oraqix®

Forget the Needle! We offer needle-free pain relief for many dental procedures!
Oraqix® is a needle-free anesthetic that is administered topically and below the gum line. Oraqix® is effective and efficient for many dental procedures and offers our patients a needle-free alternative to traditional anesthetics.
We may recommend this alternative anesthesia for several reasons, including:
A needle-free option has been found to be overwhelmingly preferred over traditional anesthetics. In clinical studies, 70% of patients preferred Oraqix® to a needle injection.
Numbing occurs quickly, usually within 30 seconds.
The sensation of numbness usually lasts about 20 minutes. So, normal sensation is typically returned by the time your appointment is completed!
Oraqix® is site specific which allows the doctor to selectively numb specific areas of the mouth.
How it Works
Oraqix® is first applied to the gums around the area receiving treatment. The gel is applied using a blunt-tipped applicator. After waiting 30 seconds, the pockets around the teeth are filled with Oraqix®. After waiting an additional 30 seconds, treatment can begin. Delaying treatment does not enhance the anesthetic effect. The scaling and root planing procedure, or alternative procedure, can then be completed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the common questions people ask before visiting the dentist.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease (periodontal disease) is a chronic infection that is most often caused by the build up of dental plaque. Gum disease rarely shows symptoms before it is well advanced. It is an infection that can wreak havoc on your teeth and your overall health. While there are many factors involved in the development of gum disease, the most common cause is the build up of dental plaque.

Should I floss every day?

If you want to keep your teeth and body healthy, yes. Brushing your teeth twice daily and cleaning between your teeth and below the gum line with floss not only dislodges the food stuck there at dinner, it also helps protect against gum disease as well as more serious health problems.

Should I go to the dentist when I am pregnant?

Getting a dental check-up during pregnancy is safe. We recommend you have your teeth cleaned and get procedures like cavity fillings done before your baby is born. Our dentists can also help you with any pregnancy-related dental symptoms you might be experiencing. Make sure you tell our appointment booking team and your dentist when you arrive that you are pregnant. In the last trimester, we don’t do anything that can stress you, lying back can be uncomfortable, so for those reasons it’s better not to do anything in the last 3 months. But if something urgent has to be done and you are in the last trimester let us know immediately.

Is tooth whitening safe?

The active ingredient in home and dentist’s office tooth-whitening bleaches is carbamide peroxide, which breaks down into hydrogen peroxide in your mouth. Studies show that this chemical does not raise your risk for oral cancer, which had been an early concern. However, it can temporarily make teeth more sensitive for up to 78 percent of people who have their pearly whites lightened. Your teeth become sensitive because the hydrogen peroxide in whiteners soaks through the protective outer coating of enamel and into the softer layer of dentin underneath, irritating the nerve-rich dental pulp at the core. Microscopic cracks and leaks along dental fillings increase your odds for tooth sensitivity. Up to 40 percent of people who use whitening trays also experience temporary gum irritation as well. It goes away in a few days or at most in a week or so. Don’t use tooth-whitening bleaches more often than recommended. Research shows that these products do wear away microscopic amounts of tooth enamel, which could increase tooth sensitivity and in rare cases, even tooth decay.

How often should I go to the dentist?

People with good healthy teeth and little risk or history of cavities or gum disease are usually able to see their dentist either once or twice a year. People with a high risk of dental disease might need to visit every three or four months, or more depending on past history, the state of their teeth and their dental hygiene routine.

How often should I have my teeth cleaned?

It is recommended twice a year. People with a high risk of dental disease might need to visit three or four times a year, or more depending on past history, the state of their teeth and their dental hygiene routine.

When should my child be checked by a dentist?

It is recommended that your child should have their first check-up after two years of age.

Should I go to the dentist when I am sick?

Don’t go to the dentist if you are sick! Phone your GP to discuss your symptoms if you feel unwell. They may give you advice over the phone or arrange to see you in person. Wait until you are feeling better before scheduling your dental appointment.

Book An Appointment 

Book Appointment

Call The Clinic

021-4543364

Clinic Hours

Monday-Thursday 8.30am-5.00pm.

Friday 8.30am-3.00pm.

 

Clinic Location

Inverell, Bishopstown Rd, Bishopstown, Cork

T12 YP5R