Gentle Dental Care
Patients who are nervous about going the dentist or who have had a bad experience at the dentist in the past are very welcome at Park Road Dental Care.
We’ve designed our practice for people who don’t like the dentist – We take things slowly, explain clearly, and help you stay in control.
Park Road Dental Care Average Rating ★★★★★
We’re used to supporting nervous and anxious patients.
You’re not alone
Dental anxiety is very common. Most people feel at least a little uneasy before an appointment, and many feel anxiety or fear about the dentist and dental treatment. It’s not uncommon for dental anxiety to prevent nervous patients from attending the dentist for years.
Feeling nervous about the dentist is completely understandable, and it’s something we can help you manage and maybe even overcome.
Why people feel nervous about the dentist
Everyone’s reasons are different, but common worries include:
- A previous bad experience
- Fear of pain or discomfort
- Fear of needles and injections
- Worries about being judged or feeling embarrassed
- Sensory triggers such as sounds, smells or bright lights
- Feeling a loss of control in the chair
If any of this sounds familiar, you’re exactly the kind of patient we’re very happy to help.
How we support nervous and anxious patients
Our approach is simple:
- Listen
- Go at your pace
- Offer the support and guidance you need
We start with a conversation
Before anything else, we’ll take time to understand anything that worries you about the dentist and what we could do that might help you feel more comfortable.
Clear explanations
We’ll explain everything we do you so know what to expect with no surprises to help you feel in control.
You stay in control
You can put your hand up if you would like to pause or stop for a break at any time, so you won’t feel trapped or rushed.
Calm, unhurried care
Appointments are never rushed. We work steadily, gently, and confidently.
A preventative, honest approach
We focus on maintaining oral and dental health to help avoiding invasive treatment wherever possible. If any treatment is needed, we’ll explain all the options openly and honestly.
Extra support
Additional caring steps can be helpful for some patients – such as use of gentle numbing gels before treatment and injections.
Needle phobia (fear of injections)
Many people who feel anxious about dental treatment are worried specifically about injections in their mouth. For some, this fear is mild; for others, it can be overwhelming and may have stopped them seeing a dentist altogether.
We approach needle phobias with understanding, support and care.
How we help:
- We can talk through what to expect in advance
- We can plan treatment around your needs
- We can use numbing gel to reduce sensation
- We can keep injections out of sight if this helps
- There are a few other tricks we can try that help some patients overcome or manage their phobia
- You remain in control at all times and can ask us to pause or stop
If injections are a particular concern for you, letting us know can make a big difference. We’ll adapt our approach to suit you.
What your first visit will be like
Your first appointment is designed to be reassuring and not overwhelming.
Typically, it involves:
- A friendly welcome and a chat about any concerns or worries
- Clarification of any relevant medical issues you have
- A gentle examination, only if you’re comfortable
- Clear explanation of any dental issues and treatment options
- Forming a plan together – with no pressure to proceed
Many nervous patients are relieved to find that the first visit is simply a conversation and an assessment.
If anxiety has stopped you seeing a dentist
Some people haven’t seen a dentist for many years because of anxiety or fear. We’re here to help you without judgement or telling off.
Our focus is on helping you move forward, starting from where you are now. Even taking the first step of getting in touch is an achievement.
Reviews
Park Road Dental Care Average Rating ★★★★★
“Outstanding experience from start to finish. The care and professionalism were exceptional, and the cleaning was gentle and thorough. David is a exceptionally wonderful Dentist. Park Road Dental Care has such a calm, welcoming, and friendly atmosphere that immediately puts you at ease. The nurse Leanne, whose warm smile and experience make a great first impression. As someone who feels quite anxious about dental appointments, I really appreciated how David took the time to explain everything About scale, and polish and brushing techniques. I left feeling genuinely well cared . Highly recommend Park Road Dental Care to anyone, especially nervous patients. Looking forward to returning in 6 months!”
Sanjeev ASource:“Really impressed with the team here at Park Road Dental after my visit today! I booked in for an emergency appointment at short notice and saw Dr David Burton & Leanne. They took the time to listen to my dental history, discuss my concerns, and develop a treatment plan that met my expectations, all while addressing the issue I had attended with. Throughout the procedure, Dr Burton explained everything clearly, including what I might experience, which helped me feel comfortable and reassured. His calm and professional manner throughout the procedure really helped put me at ease.
I will definitely return in the future and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the practice to friends and family!”
“First time patient at Park Road Dental care and couldn't have been more impressed. As a very nervous and anxious person when it comes to going to the dentist, both Dr David Burton and Leanne were so helpful and supportive!
Explained everything to me before going ahead with any procedure and made me feel relaxed and at ease throughout the treatment. Aftercare was Explained to me and felt comfortable and relaxed enough to book another appointment for next month. Will be telling friends and family or anyone in need of a dentist to make a call to this place as I feel it would be a good recommendation to anyone.”
“Was put at ease straight away, everyone was friendly and professional. Place is spotless, lovely relaxing atmosphere”
Lisa PSource:“I had a fantastic experience at this new dental practice. The team were welcoming and the dentist took the time to explain everything clearly and made sure I was comfortable throughout as I’d said I was a bit nervous. If you’re looking for a dentist and you’ve been putting off going or feel nervous, I highly recommend booking here.”
Abbey FSource:“As someone who’s nervous at the dentist, I felt very relaxed and comfortable, dentist talked me through everything, definitely recommend this practice”
Noreen SSource:“Best experience ever! Cleaning was surprisingly gentle. David has been mine and my kids NHS dentist for over 11 years at his previous practice and this was by far my best visit. Park Road Dental care has a calming friendly atmosphere. You are welcomed by their very experienced nurse Leanne with a lovely smile. As an anxious patient they made me feel at ease and talked me through the whole check up, scale and polish. I will be back in 6 months.”
Sobia KSource:“I am anxious 😬 patient, I was put at ease and had a filling. I want to thank all at the dentist 🦷.”
EZ Bar & CafeSource:Frequently asked questions
Yes. A large number of adults feel nervous or anxious about dental visits, even if they attend regularly.
You are always in control. We can stop at any point, take a break, or reschedule if needed.
No. You can share as much or as little as you like. We’re happy to talk things through gently at your pace.
We regularly see and help patients with severe anxiety. If additional support is needed, we’ll discuss this openly and honestly.
You’re not alone – this is a very common concern. Let us know, and we’ll take extra care to explain what’s involved, minimise discomfort, and go at a pace you’re comfortable with.
Related support
You may also find these pages helpful:
- Autism / ASD-friendly dentistry – for patients who prefer a predictable, sensory-aware approach
- Children’s dentistry – gentle care for younger patients and families
- New patients – what to expect at your first appointment