Specialist dental care for nervous patients in East Devon

General dentistry

At Ashbury Dental Care, we understand that for some, a trip to the dentists can be a challenge. We offer gentle, compassionate care for nervous or anxious patients in and around Budleigh Salterton.

Two friendly dentists smiling in a clean, welcoming, treatment room

Treating nervous patients at Ashbury Dental Care

Dental phobia can make even routine checkups feel overwhelming. At Ashbury Dental Care, we prioritise helping our more nervous or anxious patients to feel safe, supported, and in control. Whether you’re scared of the dentist due to past trauma, or experience general dental anxiety, our calm, spa-like environment and compassionate team can make all the difference.

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One of the dentists at Ashbury Dental Care smiling with her hair in a ponytail

What is dental phobia

Dental phobia (dentophobia) is a strong fear of the dentist that can prevent people from seeking essential or emergency care. We recognise that dental phobia is more than just nerves, it’s a deep-rooted anxiety that affects many adults and children. So, whether you’re a nervous patient or scared of the dentist and need treatment, we’re here to help you feel calm, safe, and supported.

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A friendly dentist at Ashbury Dental Care taking an xray of a patient who is out of frame

How do we support patients with a fear of the dentist?

At Ashbury Dental Care, we understand that dental anxiety isn’t always about the treatment - it’s about feeling safe, heard, and supported. Instead, we take time to understand your needs during a private consultation and create a bespoke care plan tailored to you. Sedation may be discussed if it’s appropriate, but most of our support focuses on building trust and confidence with your dentist and the supporting care team. We’ll guide you gently, with no pressure and complete transparency.

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Clean, well-lit treatment room with white walls and a dark blue chair and dark blue cabinets

Getting treated at Ashbury Dental Care

Book your appointment

Getting started is simple. Call us or book online, and we’ll arrange a private consultation at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

Visit our calm, welcoming practice

When you arrive, our friendly team will greet you gently and give you plenty of time to relax. There’s no rush — you’re in a safe, understanding environment.

Follow-up and ongoing support

We’ll create a personalised plan based on your needs and check in regularly to support your confidence, comfort, and long-term wellbeing.

Do I need additional support for dental phobia?

If you’re feeling anxious, panicked, or have been avoiding dental visits altogether, you may benefit from support for dental phobia. This fear of the dentist is more common than you might think - especially among adults who’ve had difficult past experiences, or those with sensory difficulties. Dental anxiety can also affect children, which is why we offer gentle care through our paediatric dentistry services. Whether you’re a nervous patient or scared of the dentist but need treatment, our team is here to help you take the first step with confidence.

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A dentist looks at an xray of a patient's teeth

The benefits of regular dental check-ups

Prevent gum disease

Routine check-ups help keep your gums healthy and reduce the risk of inflammation or infection

Maintain good oral health

Regular visits support a clean, healthy mouth and help you stay on top of your overall dental wellbeing

Spot and treat issues early

Early detection allows us to address problems before they become painful, complex, or costly

Prevent bad breath

Professional cleaning and tailored advice help keep your breath fresh and your mouth feeling clean

Support with dental phobia at Ashbury Dental Care

Our experienced team are proficient in helping nervous patients to feel safe and supported. We’re highly rated on both Google and Trustpilot, and our dentists are trained in sedation and anxiety management, if required. Ashbury’s calm, spa-like setting makes all the difference.

For more information, or to discuss your own individual requirements, please contact the practice.

Meet the team
Smiling team of dentists at Ashbury Dental Care
Smiling dentist with out-of-focus foreground

Improve your smile, restore oral health

Book a no-commitment consultation to talk through your concerns. We’ll create a personalised treatment plan and guide you through each step at your pace. In the case of an emergency, we’ll do what we can to see you as soon as possible.

Frequently asked questions

Taking care of your teeth at Ashbury Dental Care