FAQs for Nervous Patients
This section answers common questions from patients who feel anxious about dental treatment and are considering the Dentistry for Nervous Patients service.
01 I am very nervous about the dentist. Is this service suitable for me?
This service is designed specifically for patients who experience anxiety, fear, or distress when attending dental appointments.
Suitability depends on individual circumstances and is assessed during consultation.
02 What happens at the clinical consultation?
The free consultation is a non-clinical appointment with a care coordinator.
It is used to:
- Discuss concerns and previous experiences
- Explain how the service works
- Outline sedation options at a general level
- Help you decide whether to proceed to a clinical consultation
No examination, diagnosis, or sedation assessment takes place.
03 Will I see a dentist at the free consultation?
No. Free consultations are non-clinical and are carried out by our care coordinator — not a dentist. No examination takes place.
All clinical consultations are carried out by Dr Frances Carling-Thom and are paid appointments.
04 What happens at the clinical consultation?
The clinical consultation is a paid appointment with Dr Frances Carling-Thom.
It includes:
- Dental assessment
- Medical history review
- Diagnosis
- Treatment planning
- Assessment of suitability for IV sedation
05 What is IV sedation?
IV sedation involves administering sedative medication through a vein to produce deep relaxation.
You remain conscious and responsive but feel calm and less aware of the procedure.
06 Will I be asleep?
No. IV sedation does not involve being asleep or unconscious.
07 Is IV sedation safe?
IV sedation is widely used when provided following appropriate assessment and monitoring. Suitability is determined individually during the clinical consultation.
08 Will I feel pain?
Local anaesthetic is used alongside sedation to control discomfort. Sedation reduces anxiety and awareness but does not replace local anaesthetic.
09 Will I remember the treatment?
Many patients experience limited memory of the appointment, but this varies.
10 Do I have to proceed with treatment?
No. There is no obligation to proceed at any stage.
11 Can I stop treatment if I feel uncomfortable?
Yes. You remain able to communicate during IV sedation, and treatment can be paused or stopped.
12 Do I need someone to come with me?
Yes. If IV sedation is used, you must be accompanied to and from the appointment.
13 Where is the service provided?
The service is provided at: • Tavistock Dental, Central London • Richmond Hill Dental, Richmond
14 How do I book an appointment?
You may book a free consultation with a care coordinator or a paid clinical consultation with Dr Frances Carling-Thom.