Smile Designing - Part 2

The importance of good planning and preparation

As discussed in the first part of this blog - What is Smile Designing?, the key to Smile Designing is in the planning. 

Evaluation and Assessment

Your dentist will first make a full assessment of all components which contribute to your smile. It is important to consider how, not only your teeth, but also your facial features and gums contribute to your overall smile. 

While your dentist will discuss and seek to address aspects of your smile which you dislike and want to change it is important to make a full assessment so that the end result will be in harmony with your facial features, age, gender and personality. 

You can think of it in terms of the way architects design and plan a building. They will not consider the more cosmetic features first, such as the windows and balconies. First importance should be given to the overall structure and foundation. In the same way, in Smile Designing, the aim is to create a smile which will be functional and lasting, not only nice to look at. 

Any underlying dental or gum problems will also need to be diagnosed and treated first. There is no point designing beautiful crowns or veneers and placing them on teeth which have hidden decay or will become loose in future due to gum problems.

Several diagnostic aids may be used in evaluation and assessment:

• Before and after photographs
• X-rays - to assess the jaw bones and teeth
• Facial measurements - to assess proportions and alignment
• Study models - made after taking impressions of your teeth
• Wax-ups - the planned changes to teeth can first be demonstrated in wax on the study model

Facial Assessment

If the are discrepancies in the proportions, alignment or symmetry of the face this will affect the smile. 


For example, some people have a discrepancy between the size of the upper and lower jaws in relation to each another. In more severe cases adjustments to the teeth alone may not be sufficient. Surgery to correct the position of the jaw bones may be required.





In cases where the chin, cheeks or lips appear out of proportion cosmetic surgery may be used to give a better appearance.

Orthodontic Assessment

It is important to evaluate the position of your teeth in relation to your jaw bones and each other, especially when you bite together. A poor bite can affect not only appearance but also normal chewing and speech. The way your teeth meet will also determine how much space there is for placing crowns (caps) or replacing missing teeth with either implants or bridges.

Inman Aligner

If there is a significant bite problem, orthodontic treatment with braces may be required before other treatment can be carried out. Even smaller problems, such as crooked front teeth, are often best corrected with modern types of braces either instead of or prior to placing crowns or veneers.

Periodontal (Gum) Assessment 

Healthy gums are  a major part of your smile. Not only do healthy gums look good they are also important in providing support for your teeth. 

If gum disease is left unchecked the gums will recede so that the roots of the teeth become visible. Also, the problem can spread to the bone surrounding the teeth, causing teeth to become loose. As well as professional cleaning, thorough brushing and flossing of your teeth at home is vital to maintain healthy gums. 

Your dentist will assess the gum level in relation to the teeth and the amount of gum which shows when you smile. Where more complex gum problems are found referral to a periodontist (gum specialist) may be required.

Dental Assessment

There are many potential dental issues which may need resolving. 

Here are some examples:

• Tooth decay
• Staining or discolouration of teeth
• Unsightly fillings, crowns etc.
• Missing teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Crowded teeth
• Poor alignment of teeth
• Tooth wear
• Mis-shaped teeth
• Too little or too much tooth displayed when smiling
• Tooth dimensions out of proportion

The planning stage is vital in developing the correct plan for treatment. Your dentist will guide you through the process to create a long-lasting, beautiful smile.

In the next part we will discuss some of the techniques and treatments which may be a part of the Smile Design process.

Medical and Dental Tourism in India - Part 4

Part 4 - Dental Tourism

In the previous posts we have discussed the pros and cons of medical tourism as well as practical advice for those considering travelling for medical treatment.

In the section we will look specifically at dental tourism, drawing on our experience at Smile Station in Bangalore, India.

What is Dental Tourism?

Dental tourism is a subset of medical tourism. Sometimes also called a "dental vacation" when people combine a foreign holiday with seeking dental treatment.

Why is dental tourism becoming more popular?

Many people who have private, or government provided, medical insurance do not have dental coverage and therefore have to pay the full cost of treatment. Even those who have dental insurance are not covered for many treatments, such as implants and cosmetic dentistry. Extensive reconstructive or cosmetic treatment can be expensive. In the USA and Europe, comprehensive dental treatment has become unaffordable for many.

Travelling for dental treatment is popular, largely due to wide variations in treatment costs between countries.In some cases treatment may be much more affordable in a neighbouring country, such as in Mexico compared to the USA. People from the UK may travel to Hungary or Poland in Eastern Europe where treatment costs are considerably lower.

India is popular with individuals who have family in India and are living abroad as they may seek dental treatment whilst visiting relatives. Others visit for work, vacation or a spiritual retreat and take advantage of quality, affordable dental care whilst in India.

India offers a rich cultural experience and a full range of options, from budget to 5 star hotels, for those looking to combine dental treatment with an unforgettable vacation. 

Depending on the procedure, it is possible to make savings of 50-90% compared to the cost of treatment in the USA or Europe. Even after adding travel and accommodation costs, big savings can be made. 

Developing countries are able to offer more affordable care due to lower overhead expenses, such as the cost of labour, insurance and less bureaucratic red tape. However, there is also generally less regulation of the dental profession.  There is currently no independent, international inspection committee for dentistry, unlike the Joint Commission International (JCI) which accredits hospital and medical care providers. Therefore, it is vital to do your research well in order to find a well qualified, experienced and ethical dentist.

Which procedures are suitable for dental tourism?

The most popular procedures for dental tourists are:

• Dental Implants
  
• Tooth coloured filllings
• Crowns and bridges
• Veneers
• Dentures
• Implant retained dentures
• Root canal treatment
• Periodontal (gum) treatment
• Tooth whitening
• Smile design and makeover

Procedures are usually elective (planned in advance) although emergency treatment may also be sought by those travelling for business or pleasure.

What do I need to consider if I am planning dental treatment abroad?

The tips and advice for those considering medical tourism in the previous part of this blog (click for link) also apply to dental tourism.

In addition:

• Do your research and get recommendations and reviews from verified patients.
• Check your dentist's training and experience and whether they have international qualifications or certification.
• Make sure that the clinic is clean and sterilization protocols are followed.
• Find out about the treatment and how many visits will be required.
• Discuss the best treatment option for you and any risks or precautions.
• For complex restorative treatment, such as implants, crowns and bridges, the timing of multiple visits will need to be carefully planned.
• Find out what travel and activities may be advised or avoided in the post treatment phase.
• Enquire about treatment costs and any guarantees for implants, crowns and bridges etc.
• Consider whether you will be able to return for follow-up or maintenance, or whether you will require follow-up treatment in your home country.

The Smile Station Experience

At Smile Station, in Bangalore, we are regularly welcome international clients, as well as those from other parts of India. Our team of internationally trained and certified consultants are able to provide a full range of dental treatment under one roof. Treatment options, along with their risks and benefits are fully explained so that you can make an informed choice. We have a proven track record in providing high quality, professional and ethical care. 

The clinic environment is relaxed and welcoming and we specialize in helping those who are anxious about dental treatment. The practice is well equipped with the latest technology and materials and a strict sterilization protocol is followed. We used internationally acclaimed dental laboratories to provide world class restorative treatment at an affordable cost. We are also able to arrange airport transfers and travel and accommodation in India.

We have received great feedback from our international clients, many of whom return to Smile Station whenever they are in India.

Here are just two testimonials:

“What an incredible experience! I needed four crowns Dr. Gurudev & his staff went out of their way to accommodate me in the short time I was in Bangalore. Friendly and Professional service at a fraction of the cost in the US.” 

Linda Busi, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA

Dr. Guru Dev is one of the best dentist I have ever been to....and I've had a lot of excellent dentistry in my life....with having 26 gold porcelain crowns in my 20's. While in India for a long time I had some serious dental problems that I saw 2 dentist for...both of whom said that the tooth needed to be pulled. Being extremely emotionally sensitive to dentistry and feeling no trust in either of them a friend suggested I go see Dr. Guru Dev. He took charge right away with calmness, and gentleness through every procedure. He saved that tooth through a very complicated root canal, and then came the crown. He became my dentist from that point on ....through an extraction, and eventually to an implant which I was very scared to have done. Now back in the US every dentist I see asks who did it and how well done it is. I have had no problems since. I only wish Dr. Guru Dev had a dental practice on the West Coast of the US! Thank you Dr. Guru Dev for all your care and professionalism. Lucky people in Bangalore! 

Christinea Johnson, California, USA


If you would like to know more, please check the Smile Station website (click for link)

Medical and Dental Tourism in India - Part 3

Part 3 - Tips and Advice

In the previous section we looked at the pros and cons of medical tourism. 

If you are considering travelling for medical treatment it is important to know your options and prepare well.

 

Do your homework

Find out about the proposed procedure, the benefits and risks.  Research which destinations and treatment centres have a proven track record and good reputation for the specialty. The Patients Beyond Borders website has a lot of good information (click for link). 

You can also check the Joint Commision International's service World Hospital Search to find JCI accredited health care organizations (click for link).





If possible, get reviews or talk to others who have had the same procedure or been to the same clinic or hospital. Find out if the medical staff speak your language or whether you will require an interpreter.

Finding the best doctor or physician

If possible, get personal recommendations of doctors from those who have been treated by them. Do not rely on reviews on the internet as there is no way to check if they are genuine.

You can check a doctor's qualifications, licence to practice and membership of professional associations. Find out where a doctor did their training and how many years they have been in practice. Check if the doctor is board certified (USA), or on the specialist list (in other countries) for the area they are working in. For example, if a doctor or surgeon trained in the USA, they may be American Board Certified and working in another country.

Doctors who are well known in their field have often published research papers, which you can search for on-line.

Find out which hospitals or clinics the doctor or surgeon practices in, and whether these are internationally accredited.

Ask questions

You should be able to speak to the doctor or surgeon before you travel, either by phone or on-line consultation.

Here are some questions to ask:

• How many of this type of procedure have you performed and what is your success rate?
• Where and how will you perform my procedure?
• Is the surgical facility accredited?
• What are the risks associated with the procedure and how can these be minimised?
• What is the cost of treatment?
• What is the expected recovery time, what kind of help would I need in the recovery phase and when would I be able to return home?
• How do you deal with any complications, if they arise?

  

Know your rights

Find out how the medical profession is regulated in the country you are travelling to and who you could contact in case of any concerns or complaints. Check your doctor's qualifications and membership of professional and licencing associations. Find out about travel insurance for your trip and what it will, and will not, cover.

 

Have realistic expectations

A good doctor will advise on various options for treatment as well as expected recovery time and possible side effects. Beware of those who offer miracle cures.

 

Consult with local physician or surgeon and arrange follow-up care upon your return

It is important to inform your local physician of your intention to travel. They may be able to give you valuable advice in addition to arranging any follow up care you may require.

Medical records

You will need to take records of your complete medical history, or have these transferred to the doctor who will be treating you. It is also important to obtain the medical records of your treatment for your physician in your home country.

 

Travel with a friend or relative

It can help to have moral support and someone to help you, especially in the recovery phase.

 

Find out about visa regulations

If you need a visa you need to allow sufficient time for the application process. Some countries allow for visa on arrival at the airport.

 

Budget for all associated costs

Whilst calculating savings for your medical care, don't forget to budget for all costs such as flights and transfers, visas, food and accommodation and vacation activities.

 

Pre-travel health advice

Consult a travel health provider at least 6 weeks prior travel to arrange any necessary vaccinations and any other precautions, e.g. antimalarial measures, which may be required for your destination. You should also discuss the risks of travelling, and especially flying after surgery. Air travel is not recommended for at least 7-10 days following many types of surgery.

 

Plan timing of any travel and vacation activities

Depending on the planned treatment, you will need to allow enough time for rest and recovery. It may be better to plan sightseeing and other activities before, rather than after surgery.

 

Consider using a medical tourism facilitator

A medical tourism facilitator can help in all the arrangements, from the planning stage right up until follow-up care in your home country. Be aware that there is no standard regulation for medical tourism facilitators. Choose a facilitator who is highly recommended by previous clients and has international accreditation.

In the last section, we will look more specifically at Dental Tourism

Medical and Dental Tourism in India - Part 1

What is Medical Tourism?

Medical tourism is the term used when someone travels for the purpose of obtaining medical treatment. Although some definitions include domestic medical tourism, within the same country, the term is mostly used for foreign medical travel. The number of medical tourists is on the increase. Although it is difficult to obtain reliable statistics, it is estimated that currently between 8 and 12 million people travel abroad annually for healthcare. The medical tourism market is thought to be growing at a rate of 15-25% annually.

In the past, the majority of medical tourists were from less developed countries travelling to seek treatments that were not available in their home country. Whilst this is still the case, more recently, the trend is for people to travel abroad to seek treatment at a lower cost. 

The phrase "medical tourism" may be relatively new but the practice of travelling for health reasons dates back to antiquity. One of the earliest known destinations is Epidauria, in ancient Greece, which was believed to be the birthplace of Apollo's son, Asclepeios, the healer. From the 6th century BC or even earlier, those who were sick would travel long distances to seek healing. 

In Israel, the Dead Sea is believed to be one of the world's first health resorts, dating back to the time of King Herod the Great. For over two thousand years up to the present time people have traveled to the Dead Sea for health therapies, due to the high mineral content of the water and beneficial climatic features.   

Why do people choose to travel for healthcare?

There may be many factors involved in a person's choice. Here are some of the most common reasons:

Cost

Treatment abroad may be available at a fraction of the compared to the USA or Europe. It is estimated that 40 to 45 million Americans (one in seven) do not have health insurance and many more may be under-insured. Some people are unable to get insurance for a pre-existing condition. Even for those who have insurance, certain treatments and procedures may not be covered (eg. cosmetic surgery) and for some treatments the deductible amount the patient has to pay may be higher than the total cost of travelling abroad for treatment. 

Less Waiting

In countries with nationalized health services, such as the Canada, Australia, the UK and many other European countries, there may be long waiting lists for important surgeries. By seeking treatment abroad, individuals may be able to get treatment with minimal or no waiting.

Treatment not available at home

Some treatments may not be available due to lack of resources. Other procedures may be unauthorised or even illegal, in the person's own country eg. new, experimental treatments, some reproductive technologies or surrogacy. People also travel for traditional medical practices, such as Ayurveda, in India.

Tourism

People may use the chance to have a vacation see a new place whilst also receiving medical treatment.

Which specialties are popular with medical tourists?

• Orthopedics - including hip and knee operations
• Heart Surgery
• Fertility and Reproductive Health
• Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery
• Oncology (cancer treatment)
• Weight loss surgery
• Ophthalmology (eye surgery)
• Dentistry

Where are the top medical tourism destinations?

• Malaysia - burns treatment, health screening
• Thailand - cosmetic surgery
• India - surgery, especially heart surgery and orthopedics
• Brazil - cosmetic surgery
• Singapore - many surgical specialties and stem cell treatments
• Costa Rica - cosmetic surgery, dentistry
• Hungary - dentistry
• Mexico - dentistry and cosmetic surgery
• Turkey - ophthalmology

amongst many other countries.


In further posts we will look more specifically at the pros and cons of medical tourism, tips and advice for those considering medical care abroad and more specifically at medical and dental tourism in India. 

Overcoming Dental Anxiety - Part 3

As we discussed in the first part of this blog, dental anxiety is common. However, individuals may face different issues depending on their personalities and past experiences.

In the following 2 sections we will cover some specific fears and anxieties and look at ways of overcoming them.

Loss of Control

A big issue for many people is the feeling of loss of control when visiting the dentist. You may feel like you do not know what is going on in your mouth or that you are not able to have a say in what the dentist does.

You may have had bad experiences in the past with a dentist who did not explain what they were doing or why. This may have given you the feeling that dentistry is something that "is done to you" rather than you being a partner in your dental care.  As discussed in the previous post - finding a good dentist who you can communicate well with is vital in overcoming anxiety. A good dentist will explain treatment options, along with risks and benefits in a way that you can understand. You may need to take some time to consider your options before agreeing to treatment. 

Dentists are required to obtain "informed consent" before treatment. Sometimes you may be asked to sign a consent form. Only sign this if you feel you have enough information to agree to treatment - if not then ask questions. A good question to ask your dentist is what would they choose if it were their tooth or mouth. You should also know the likely consequences if you choose to have no treatment. Remember, you should be in control and always have a choice in your treatment.

Similarly, a good dentist will explain what is involved in your treatment from your point of view, what sensations you are likely to feel and how to let them know if you want them to stop or take a break. Some dentists may ask you to raise your hand if you have any discomfort or need a break. This enables you to give a stop signal to your dentist when you are not able to talk easily without suddenly moving your head. Another option is to agree to take a break after an agreed number of minutes, this can be useful if you are afraid to interrupt the dentist while they are working. However, if you have any significant discomfort, don't be afraid to raise your hand to let the dentist know. If you have a good relationship with a dentist you can trust they will stop and try to make you comfortable. 

Often, it is helpful if your dentist not only explains the procedure but also demonstrates any tools or materials before using them. This technique, called tell-show-do, is often used for children but can also be very beneficial for adults who are anxious. For example, you can feel the dental instrument on the back of your hand or your finger nail before it is used in your mouth so that you know what it feels like.

As we discussed in the previous section of this blog, it is best to overcome anxieties one step at a time. You should become comfortable with having a check-up, or cleaning before moving onto longer or more complex procedures. Relaxation is important in this process. In the next section, we will also discuss some relaxation techniques.

The Dental Chair

For some people with a dental phobia just the thought of lying in the dental chair can be terrifying. Lying down can make you feel exposed or vulnerable. It is often possible to do a check up with the dental chair upright, or even in a normal chair. For treatment, you can ask your dentist if is possible to leave the chair in a more upright or semi-reclined position. For some procedures, especially if working on the back or top teeth, the dentist will need the chair to be more reclined but you can ask for this to be done gradually, so that you can get used to it. If you don't like the feeling of being tipped back then you can ask for the chair to be put into the correct position before you sit or lie back.

Fear of "the diagnosis" or embarrassment

If you have a dental phobia you will probably have put off visiting the dentist even when you have pain or know that they need urgent treatment. This can lead to embarrassment and the feeling that you have the worst teeth the dentist has ever seen. You may also fear being "told off" or receiving a lecture from the dentist. You may also fear that you need a lot of extensive treatment.

Dentists will have seen a wide variety of people and their mouths so it is unlikely that anything in your mouth shock them. These days, most dentists realise that scolding or lecturing their patients is counter-productive. A sympathetic dentist will understand how difficult it has been for you to visit a dentist after a long time and will want to work with you to overcome your fears and improve your oral health. 

Also, dentists should maintain confidentiality and not discuss your diagnosis or treatment in front of other patients or members of the public. You can ask to discuss your treatment in a private setting and have the door closed during treatment if this is an issue for you.


Here is the experience of one patient, Garima, from Smile Station, Bangalore who has been able to overcome her dental phobia:

"I had dentist phobia and there was so much of work to be done on my teeth, but I was always afraid of visiting dentist, in fact I had never visited one. I randomly walked into Smile station for a check up, and Dr Guru did not make me nervous. He would be so patient throughout the treatment which is commendable, given the fact that he is always busy. But what I experienced was he would never ignore or take any patient lightly. Another very good thing is he will exactly tell what needs to be done, gives various options and explains pros and cons of each treatment, so that a person is involved and knows what is going on. I feel that every service / treatment at Smile Station has a personal touch in it. I have now shifted to London, but make sure that on my way back India, I see Dr. Guru as well as get the check up done. I just feel that I / my teeth :-) are in safe hands."

In the next section we will look at more factors which can cause anxiety and techniques which can help. 

You can subscribe to the blog by email by using the link on the right.

Overcoming Dental Anxiety - Part 2

In the first part of this blog we looked at some of the causes and effects of dental anxiety and phobia.

In this section we will discuss how to find a good dentist who can work with you to overcome your fears.

As in any profession, there are good and bad dentists. Most dentists want to relieve pain and keep their patients happy. However, not all dentists have the personality, time or interest to work with those who are fearful and need extra care and attention. 

Unfortunately, if you have had bad experiences in the past with one or more dentists this may lead you to believe that all dentists are uncaring or "bad".  

Media portrayal of dentists usually does not help. While movies may make other doctors the hero in their plots they usually 
portray the dentist as the villain! 

If you had a schoolteacher who was cruel and ridiculed you, this does not mean that all teachers are the same.

There are many gentle, caring dentists who are  good with nervous people. 

The key is finding the right dentist for you. 

Qualities of a good dentist

Of course, a dentist needs to be well qualified, knowledgeable and skillful at their job. 

The following qualities are also important, especially if you are anxious or have dental phobia: 

• Someone you can develop a good rapport with.
• Makes you feel at ease and works to gain your trust.
• Treats all people with respect.
• Interested in whole person - does not just see people as a mouth or set of teeth!
• Understands anxiety and is gentle and caring.
• Willing to spend extra time when needed and listen to your concerns.
• Explains the diagnosis and treatment options in a way that you can understand.
• Involves you in decision making and gives preventive advice so that you become a partner in your dental care.
• If sedation is used, it should only be in conjunction with, and not as a replacement for, good communication and psychological support. 
• Dental office environment should be clean and as welcoming and comfortable as possible.

So how do you find a dentist the right dentist for you?

The best way is by word of mouth. Ask your friends and family, if they have a dentist they can recommend. If a friend or family member is also anxious or an ex-dental phobic but has found a dentist who they get along well with, this is a good sign. You can also check a dentist's reviews on various websites, but a personal recommendation is better.

There is no one dentist who is a perfect fit for every patient. Depending on past experience and personal preference, you may be happier with a male or female dentist, or someone with a different personality type than your friend.

Taking the first step

Once you have some recommendations you could telephone the practices to ask about the dentist and get some more information. If you are very anxious, you could ask someone to do this for you. Try to call into the practice, with a friend, if needed, to get get a feel for the place before making an appointment. You could explain to the receptionist that you are anxious and ask how the dentist deals with anxious patients.

Unless you have severe pain or infection, you do not need to rush into dental treatment. You will probably have been putting off seeing a dentist for some time, so a few more weeks are not going to make a huge difference. It is important to find a dentist who will help you overcome your fears, rather than reinforce them. 

It may be less scary to ask to just have a chat with the dentist away from the dental chair for the first visit. It is best to be open about your fears, anxieties and past bad experiences, as this can enable the dentist to find the best way to help you. If you feel unable to talk about some of your fears, you could put them in writing. 

If you feel positive about the dentist you can then make an appointment for a check-up. Trust your instincts, if you don't feel comfortable with the dentist then make your excuses and leave. You can keep looking until you find the right dentist for you.

If you have a dental phobia, just making the first appointment can be the hardest part. An understanding dentist will let you take one step at a time in order to build up your confidence. Once you have managed a check-up and x-ray, you will probably find that your level of anxiety is reduced. It is best to start with a simpler procedure, such as cleaning, before moving onto to more complex treatment. 

Congratulate yourself for each new step you take. 

As the following testimonial from a Smile Station patient shows, it is possible to overcome your fears once you find the right dentist:

"When I was referred by my colleague to go to Smile Station, I thought it is going to be yet another place and have to bear the grueling pains which normally arises due to dental treatments. After the first consultation with Dr Gurudev I changed my opinion completely. Within few sittings all my problems along with fear has gone and our entire family is now under the care of Smile Station. Both Dr Pramila and Dr Gurudev are excellent in their approach and services to the patients!! Cheers and Good wishes to the entire Team !!!"


Look out for the next section in which we will look at specific anxieties and some techniques for overcoming them.

Overcoming Dental Anxiety - Part 1

Are you worried or anxious about visiting the dentist? 

You are not alone.

Dental anxiety is common. It is reported that approximately 20% of people put off visiting the dentist due to anxiety. 

A smaller percentage (maybe less than 5%) have severe dental phobia and will live with extreme pain from their teeth rather than go to the dentist.

In this blog we are going to discuss the causes of dental anxiety and phobia as well as ways to overcome these.

What is Dental Anxiety?

Anxiety is fear of the unknown. Most people experience some degree of dental anxiety. This is natural if you are about to have something done which you have never experienced before.

Fear is reaction to a known danger. This can be due to past bad experiences and lead to avoidance of similar circumstances. Fear can also result from hearing or reading scare-stories from other people, including parents or from media portrayal.

Phobia is an extreme, persistent or irrational fear. This leads people with a dental phobia to avoid dentists or anything related to dentistry.

Research has shown that men and women are equally affected by dental anxiety and phobia. Men may find it more difficult to talk about their fear and therefore to get help in overcoming it. Children can pick up fears from their parents even before they ever have any experience of dentistry.

Dental phobia can have a major impact on daily life due to the pain and embarrassment caused by untreated dental problems. This can lead to loss of self esteem or depression.

Some of the most common factors involved in dental anxiety or phobia:

• Feeling of loss of control
• Fear of the unknown
• Past bad experiences
• Specific fears such as injections, the drill or pain
• Fear of embarrassment or humiliation
• Stories from others
• History of child abuse can also cause dental anxiety

If you recognise any of these issues or feelings, there is hope. 

At Smile Station in Bangalore, we specialise in helping patients who are fearful or anxious.


Here is a testimonial from one of our patients at Smile Station who was is overcoming her fears:

Hi This is Monami  from Bangalore and I was paranoid about dental treatment and had to go through general anesthesia for even fillings and tooth extraction. Many dentists tried to work with me but I ran away every time as I was over sensitive to the instruments. Then luckily I met Dr. Gurudev who not only talked me through the procedure but also is trying to work with me to get this trauma out of my mind for good. I really thank Dr. Gurudev for being so patient with me and acting more like a psychologist than a doctor. Thanks a million Dr. Gurudev.

In the following 3 sections we will discuss the following ways of overcoming fear and anxiety about visiting the dentist:

Part 2  -  How to find a good dentist you can trust and communicate well with.

Part 3 -   Specific issues which may cause anxiety and techniques for overcoming them.

Part 4 -   More ways to overcome anxiety, including relaxation techniques and good pain control.

Check back soon for the following parts, or follow by email using the link on the right.