For millions of people, a dental appointment is not routine; it’s a source of real stress. During International Stress Awareness Month this April, one Kendal dental practice is highlighting how compassionate, patient-first care can make a real difference to those living with dental anxiety.
As many as 60% of adults feel stress at the idea of visiting the dentist, with up to 15% experiencing extreme dental fear, or ‘dentophobia’, which can result in complete avoidance of dental care. This has serious implications, not just for the nation’s oral health, but conditions that can result from untreated gum disease and tooth decay, including cardiovascular disease, respiratory infections and diabetes complications.
Founded in 2001, Crossbank Dental Care on Captain French Lane, has built a reputation for its dedicated supportive and patient-empathetic approach, particularly for nervous patients. Underlining Principal Dentist Neil Cooper is currently the only dentist in Cumbria certified under the Dental Phobia Scheme, with very few practitioners holding this accreditation across the wider North West.
“Stress shows up in many ways, and dental anxiety is more common than people might think,” says Neil, “Our role is to change that experience, to make care feel accessible, manageable and genuinely supportive.”
The patient focussed team includes dedicated Treatment Coordinators, who support patients at every stage, sometimes literally offering a reassuring hand to hold. The practice recently celebrated three members of staff, Helen, Linda & Liz, attain their Postgraduate Diploma in Restorative and Aesthetic Dentistry.
One of the most effective tools is modern dental sedation, helping patients feel calm and comfortable throughout treatment. Over the past three years, impartial patient feedback commissioned by the practice shows that an industry-high 97.5% who have used Crossbank sedation assistance would wholly recommend it.
“While sedation is a feeling of gentle relaxation, not a ‘knock-out’, 91.2% reported no memory of the procedure, which we know provides added reassurance to those considering taking what can feel like a big step,” adds Neil.
While recognised nationally for the highest levels of both clinical care and green sustainability, success is measured less in awards than patient happiness.
“As much as the successful procedure and desired outcome, it’s a patient who feels at ease, more confident and able to smile once again without worry; and potentially safer from further health conditions, too,” says Director and Practice Manager Bex Cooper. “During International Stress Awareness Month, encouraging those who may have been putting off dentist visits to discover that a different kind of dental experience is possible and to realise that support is available whenever they feel ready, feels more important than ever.”
