Fear of the dentist: 5 techniques to overcome dental anxiety

You are not alone — dental anxiety in numbers

Odontophobia (irrational fear of the dentist) is one of the most common phobias in the world. In Canada, approximately 5 to 15% of the population avoids the dentist due to severe anxiety. The consequences are real: simple cavities that become abscesses, gum problems that lead to tooth loss, and oral health that silently deteriorates.

• 15% of Canadians suffer from significant dental anxiety
• 40% of adults feel some degree of discomfort about going to the dentist
• Anxious patients visit the dentist on average half as often
• Dental anxiety is the 3rd most common phobia in Canada

Why are we afraid of the dentist? The real reasons

Understanding the source of your anxiety is the first step to overcoming it. The reasons are often deep and legitimate — there is no shame in feeling them.

• Past traumatic experience — A painful treatment during childhood or a rough dentist leaves lasting marks in emotional memory.
• Loss of control — Lying down, mouth open, unable to speak or move creates a feeling of helplessness in many patients.
• Fear of pain — Even though modern anesthesia is very effective, the anticipatory fear of pain is often more intense than the pain itself.
• Sensitivity to sounds and smells — The noise of the dental drill and the smell of materials can trigger a stress response.
• Shame and judgment — Many patients fear being judged for the state of their teeth, especially after years without a visit. This fear is unfounded at our clinic.

Our 5 techniques for a stress-free visit

At Centre Dentaire du Plateau, we have developed a specific protocol for anxious patients. These techniques have been refined over 35 years of practice and allow the vast majority of our patients to overcome their anxiety.

• Constant communication — Dr. Barchichat explains every step before doing it. No surprises. You know exactly what is happening at every moment.
• Patient control (raised hand) — You raise your hand at any time to pause the treatment. We stop immediately, no questions asked. You stay in control.
• Modern painless anesthesia — We use a topical numbing gel before the injection, ultra-fine needles and slow injection technique. Most patients don't feel the needle.
• Music and headphones — Bring your earbuds and your favorite playlist. Music significantly reduces stress and masks instrument noise.
• Progressive approach — For severe anxiety cases, we start with a familiarization visit: we meet, we chat, we do a simple visual exam. Treatment begins only when you are ready.

Dr. Barchichat's approach with anxious patients

In 35 years of practice on the Plateau Mont-Royal, I have seen hundreds of patients who had not visited a dentist in 5, 10, sometimes 15 years because of their anxiety. My philosophy is simple: no judgment, no rushing, and absolute patience. I prefer 3 short appointments over one long stressful one. My goal is not just to treat your teeth, but to rebuild your trust in dental care — so you come back regularly and problems are treated before they become serious.

• No judgment about the state of your teeth — ever
• Short, progressive appointments to build confidence
• Clear explanation of every step in plain language
• Calm, relaxed atmosphere — no noisy, hectic office

First visit: what to expect

We know that the unknown amplifies anxiety. Here is exactly what happens during your first visit to Centre Dentaire du Plateau.

• Warm welcome by our team — no endless paperwork, no packed waiting room.
• Discussion with Dr. Barchichat — he takes the time to understand your fears and history. Nothing starts without your consent.
• Gentle visual exam — we look, we assess, we take X-rays if needed. No invasive treatment at the first visit if you don't want it.
• Treatment plan explained — we present what needs to be done, with priorities, costs and options. You set the pace.
• Next appointment at your own pace — no pressure to book immediately.

Frequently asked questions