LATE last year we set out on a mission to find Norfolk’s most nervous dental patient – in the hope that we could cure someone of their phobia.
Almost six months on, we thought it was time we shared the incredible story of success which has come from this process.
Working with renowned psychotherapist James Brittain, we selected Norfolk mum Julie Rix to be our deserving – if anxious – dental patient.
Since childhood, Julie, now 57 years of age, has been petrified of the dentist’s chair, and has always done her best to avoid getting treatment if she could.
We felt she was the perfect candidate for our collective approach with James and set about providing her with a number of psychotherapy-based phobia-conquering sessions.
“I am amazed it has been so successful already,” admitted Julie recently.
“I was excited to be selected as the winner of the competition, but I also knew that my fear was so extreme, that I wondered if there was really anything which could be done to ‘fix’ me.
“The sessions with James were great. They helped me through visualisation and processing my thoughts, and as a result, I’ve now had six appointments – including having to have a filling.
“I can honestly say that it’s completely transformed the way I feel about going to the dentist, and I certainly wouldn’t put my oral health at risk by avoiding appointments in the future. It’s amazing that it’s something I can now do very calmly.”
Dr Gautam Sharma, who heads the dental practice, is also delighted with the outcome.
He said: “We’re all thrilled for Julie. She certainly did have a very deep-rooted fear, so none of us really knew how successful it would be for sure – but the transformation has been incredible.”
He added: “Sadly, a large number of people are putting off dental appointments, and ignoring their oral health, because they are petrified of visiting a dentist. This proves that a solution like the one which James offers, really does make a difference.”
For more information about dental phobia sessions please contact our team at smiles@westearlhamdental.co.uk or on 01603 250 583.