Being criticised or scolded by the dentist
"I don't need to be told off or lectured."
What does it feel like?
Many patients carry a fear of being judged, criticised, or “told off” by a dentist. This fear often feels deeply personal. It is not just about dental treatment, it is about how the patient believes they will be perceived.
Patients may worry that the dentist will question why they have not attended earlier, comment negatively on the condition of their teeth, or imply that they have not taken proper care of themselves. Even the anticipation of these interactions can create significant anxiety before an appointment.
This fear can show up as a sense of dread, nervousness about what will be said, or a feeling of needing to justify or explain oneself. Some patients rehearse what they will say beforehand, while others avoid the situation entirely.
Why might it develop?
This type of dental anxiety often develops from past experiences. Even a single interaction where a patient felt criticised, dismissed, or judged can have a lasting impact. The memory of how it felt, not just what was said, can shape future expectations.
Cultural and social messaging also plays a role. There is often an implicit expectation that good oral health reflects personal responsibility. When someone’s teeth are not in ideal condition, they may internalise this as a personal failure, even when there are many contributing factors such as fear, cost, access, or life circumstances.
Over time, this can lead to a strong association between dental visits and feelings of shame or judgement.
"A simple statement such as I’m nervous about feeling judged can encourage the dentist to respond with empathy."
How it affects dental avoidance
Fear of criticism is a powerful driver of dental avoidance in Australia. Patients may delay appointments for fear of judgement. The longer they wait, the more significant their concerns may become, which increases the fear.
Even when patients do attend, they may feel defensive, apologetic, or withdrawn. This can make communication more difficult and prevent them from fully engaging in treatment planning.
Some patients may “dentist-hop,” moving between practices in search of a more supportive experience, rather than building continuity of care.
What can help?
The most important step is recognising that dentistry has changed significantly. Many modern dental practices prioritise non-judgemental, supportive care. Dentists understand that avoidance is often linked to fear, not neglect.
Patients can help set the tone by being open about their concerns. A simple statement such as, “I’m nervous about being judged,” can encourage the dentist to respond with empathy.
It can also be helpful to reframe the situation. Seeking dental care is a positive and proactive step. No matter how long it has been, the focus should be on moving forward, not looking back.
If a patient does encounter a judgemental interaction, it is reasonable to seek another provider. Feeling safe and respected at the dentist is essential for ongoing care.
Written by Dr Trent Davidson and Dr Helen Fisher from Mindset Dental in Brisbane 2026
