Specialist treatment for dental phobia
Nervous patients
If you’re scared of the dentist, you’re not alone. We see nervous patients every week, and for those who need it, IV sedation is available.
Treating nervous patients in Honiton and Sidmouth
We know it takes real courage to pick up the phone or walk through our door when dentistry makes you feel anxious. You don't need to explain yourself or apologise. Some of our patients just come in for a chat at first, and that's absolutely fine.
Our job is to help you feel safe, comfortable, and in control throughout your visit. For patients who need more support, in-house dentist Michael Anaman is a qualified sedationist who can provide IV sedation where it's clinically necessary.
What is dental phobia?
Dental phobia is more than ordinary nervousness. It's an overwhelming fear of the dentist that can make even booking an appointment feel impossible. Some people experience panic, difficulty breathing, or feel physically unable to sit in the chair.
If that sounds familiar, you're far from alone. What matters is getting the care you need at a pace that works for you — and where that still feels out of reach, IV sedation can make treatment possible again.
What does a visit look like for a nervous patient?
Getting in touch
Let us know you're nervous when you call or book online. Our reception team is experienced in putting anxious patients at ease, and we'll make sure there's enough time set aside for you. If you think you may need sedation, just mention it and we'll arrange a consultation with Michael.
Your first visit
You're welcome to come in for a conversation before having an examination or treatment. We can show you around the practice, explain what different procedures involve — including your sedation options if relevant — and answer your questions without any pressure.
During your appointment
You stay in control throughout. We'll explain everything clearly, check in with you regularly, and stop whenever you need a break. For patients receiving IV sedation, you'll be deeply relaxed with little or no memory of the procedure, and monitored by Michael throughout.
Getting in touch
Let us know you're nervous when you call or book online. Our reception team is experienced in putting anxious patients at ease, and we'll make sure there's enough time set aside for you. If you think you may need sedation, just mention it and we'll arrange a consultation with Michael.
Your first visit
You're welcome to come in for a conversation before having an examination or treatment. We can show you around the practice, explain what different procedures involve — including your sedation options if relevant — and answer your questions without any pressure.
During your appointment
You stay in control throughout. We'll explain everything clearly, check in with you regularly, and stop whenever you need a break. For patients receiving IV sedation, you'll be deeply relaxed with little or no memory of the procedure, and monitored by Michael throughout.
Does treating nervous patients cost more?
There's no additional charge for taking extra time with anxious patients. We factor this into how we schedule appointments so you never feel rushed. If you do need treatment, we'll give you a clear, itemised quote before we start. Sedation costs are discussed openly during your consultation, with no surprises.
Is dental anxiety stopping you from getting treatment?
We understand why someone would avoid the dentist when visits feel overwhelming. But the longer a problem goes untreated, the more complex it can become.
Many of our patients start with just a chat, and we go from there at your pace. For those whose anxiety makes treatment feel impossible, IV sedation provided by our qualified sedationist Michael Anaman can be the option that finally makes it possible.
How we help nervous patients
We explain everything clearly
Before we do anything, we explain what's involved and what to expect so there are no surprises.
We'll stop any time you ask us to
You stay in control throughout your appointment. If you need a break, just raise your hand.
Unhurried appointments
No rushing. We take the time you need to feel comfortable and safe.
Calm and quiet treatment rooms
A relaxed environment designed to help you feel at ease from the moment you arrive.
We explain everything clearly
Before we do anything, we explain what's involved and what to expect so there are no surprises.
We'll stop any time you ask us to
You stay in control throughout your appointment. If you need a break, just raise your hand.
Unhurried appointments
No rushing. We take the time you need to feel comfortable and safe.
Calm and quiet treatment rooms
A relaxed environment designed to help you feel at ease from the moment you arrive.
Experienced dentists who understand dental fear
We've been caring for patients across East Devon for over 19 years, and many of them were once nervous about visiting the dentist. Michael Anaman is a qualified sedationist with a Master's in Periodontology — one of a small number of dentists in the area able to offer IV sedation for patients who need it most. Oreste Gheorghe has extensive experience working with patients who struggle with dental phobia. Between our Honiton and Sidmouth practices, you'll find a team that truly understands.
Meet the Brookvale & Merrifield team
Ready to take the first step?
Getting in touch doesn't mean committing to treatment. It just means starting a conversation. Whether you want to ask about sedation options, book a no-pressure consultation, or simply arrange a visit to see the practice, we're here to help.