Hello GUEST. Like you, I worry that the dentist will get at me for not brushing me teeth well enough, that I'll get a lashing for not flossing, and in general to be told that I am no good. It used to be so bad that I had to bring my driver's license and put it on the counter, because I was too terrified to say my name. Then I found a specialist, who only deals with people scared shitless, like me. She said that what I felt was very common. Of course we all worry that it will hurt, but we go through child-births, broken legs, skinned knees, surgery and all kinds of painful things, and we SURVIVE them. The problem is that many find it humiliating, and degrading to be told that their dental hygiene isn't good enough. So instead of focusing on all the bad sides, she concentrated on telling me that my teeth were no worse than other people's. She gave me plenty of time to tell her about my fears, and she told me that cavities happen, and that there was no reason for me to feel so bad about them. While she was fixing my teeth, she explained every step of the way, so that I felt I was in controll. Every now and again she asked me if I wanted to take a break, or if I wanted a drink of water. I'm not cured of my fobia, but I see the dentist once a year, and I don't need to slap my driver's license on the counter anymore.

So my advice to you is to find a dentist who understands the problem. A phone-call will give you an indication of that. When you get there, it is your right to be taken seriously, fears, cavities and all. And keep this in mind: YOU call the shots. YOU are the customer. YOU pay the bill. YOU know that you brush your teeth properly. The dentist is there for YOU, not the other way around.

God, this was a long one! I hope it may be of help to you.

Cheer up! and good luck!

Magpie