Identifying and communicating your fears
When a fear is vague, it tends to feel overwhelming and uncontrollable. When it becomes more specific, it becomes something that can be understood, discussed, and addressed.
Many people describe themselves as being “afraid of the dentist,” but when you slow things down, that fear is often made up of several smaller, more specific concerns. It might be the sound of the drill, the fear of pain, a past negative experience, or even the worry of being judged for not having kept up with dental care. Sometimes, people aren’t even fully aware of what they’re afraid of, they just know the feeling is strong and difficult to manage.
Taking the time to identify your fear is one of the most important first steps. When a fear is vague, it tends to feel overwhelming and uncontrollable. When it becomes specific, it becomes something that can be understood, discussed, and addressed. Even simply writing down what worries you can help bring clarity.
Sharing these fears with your dentist can feel difficult, especially if you’re worried about being embarrassed or not taken seriously. However, a compassionate dental team will see this as incredibly valuable information. It allows them to tailor the experience to you, adjusting communication, pacing, language, and techniques to make things more comfortable.
For example, if you’re afraid of not knowing what’s happening, your dentist can explain each step in advance. If you’re worried about pain, they can spend extra time ensuring you’re numb and comfortable. If you’re concerned about being judged, a supportive environment can be created where the focus is on moving forward, not looking back.
Importantly, identifying and communicating your fears helps shift the dynamic from a traditional “doctor knows best” model to a more collaborative one. You become an active participant in your care, rather than someone simply undergoing treatment.
It’s also worth recognising that your fear is valid, regardless of its origin. Whether it comes from a past experience, something you’ve heard, or even just the unknown, it deserves to be acknowledged. You don’t need to justify it.
Ultimately, understanding your fear, and allowing your dental team to understand it too, is the foundation for a better experience. It opens the door to trust, communication, and a sense of control, all of which are key in reducing anxiety over time.
Written by Dr Trent Davidson and Dr Helen Fisher from Mindset Dental in Brisbane 2026
