Gloss & Floss Answers · Dental Anxiety
What can I do if I am afraid of dental anaesthesia?
Direct answer
If you are afraid of dental anaesthesia, tell your dentist before treatment starts. Explain whether you are worried about the injection, numbness or pain. Your dentist can explain each step, agree on a stop signal, use numbing gel where appropriate and check that the anaesthetic is working before treatment begins. The aim is to help you feel informed, comfortable and in control.
Why injection fear is common
Fear of dental anaesthesia may come from a previous painful experience, fear of needles, discomfort with numbness, fear of losing control or worry that numbing will not work. The fear can be strong even when the procedure is short.
A calm approach can reduce the feeling of surprise. Knowing what will happen and having permission to pause often makes the experience easier.
What can help?
- Tell the dentist exactly what worries you about injections or numbness, and mention any previous reactions.
- Ask whether topical anaesthetic (numbing gel) can be used before the injection.
- Agree on a stop signal.
- Ask the dentist to speak calmly or not describe details, depending on your preference.
- Use slow breathing and keep shoulders relaxed.
- Ask for a pause before treatment begins.
- Tell the dentist if you have had difficulty getting numb in the past.
Support for dental anaesthesia anxiety
| Your concern | What may help |
|---|---|
| Seeing the needle | Ask to keep the needle out of sight and agree on how much explanation you prefer. |
| Pain from the injection | Numbing gel and a slow injection technique may reduce discomfort. |
| Not getting numb enough | Allow time for the anaesthetic to work and ask the dentist to check before starting. Signal if you feel pain. |
| Panic or loss of control | Agree on a stop signal, pauses and calm breathing so you can take a break when needed. |
| An unfamiliar numb feeling | Ask what sensations to expect and how long they may last. |
| A difficult previous experience | Describe what happened so your dentist can plan around your triggers and assess any previous reaction. |
What happens at Gloss & Floss Dental Care®?
At Gloss & Floss Dental Care® in Stockholm, we encourage patients to tell us about injection fear before treatment. This allows us to slow down, explain the numbing process and check comfort before continuing.
If you have a strong needle phobia or have previously found injections very difficult, we can discuss whether the treatment can be staged or whether additional anxiety support should be considered.
When should you discuss injection fear?
Mention your concerns when booking, so the team can plan time to talk. If you feel anxious during the appointment, tell your dentist at any point; you do not need to push through pain or panic.
Practical advice: You can say: “I am afraid of injections and need you to go slowly.” That is enough to start a conversation about support.
Frequently asked questions
Can dental treatment be done without injections?
Some procedures may not need local anaesthesia. For treatments that could be painful, your dentist will explain why numbing is recommended and discuss a suitable plan with you.
Does topical anaesthetic remove all injection feeling?
Not always, but it may reduce the first surface sensation and make the process easier.
Can I close my eyes during the injection?
Yes. Many patients prefer not to see instruments, and that can be part of the plan.
What if anaesthetic does not work well for me?
Signal immediately if you feel pain. Your dentist can pause, check the anaesthetic and adjust the technique, timing or dose where appropriate, especially if a tooth is inflamed.
Is the numb feeling normal?
Temporary numbness is an expected effect of local anaesthesia. Ask how long it is likely to last and follow your dentist’s aftercare advice. Contact the clinic if numbness lasts longer than you were advised or you are concerned.
Can sedation help with severe fear?
Sedation may help selected patients feel less anxious after an individual medical assessment. It does not replace local anaesthesia when numbing is needed for pain control. Your dentist will explain suitable options and any preparation or aftercare instructions.
Related answers
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About this information
Further reading: NHS: Local anaesthetic and Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS: Dental sedation options.
This article provides general information from Gloss & Floss Dental Care® in Stockholm. It does not replace individual pain-control planning, sedation assessment or medical advice.
