How to talk to a frightened patient
UniDent editorial team · July 28, 2026
Dr Aleks Aleksiev
An anxious patient does not need reassurance so much as control over the situation. Three things work: say what is coming before you do it, give them a way to stop you, and never promise it will not hurt. A promise that may not hold costs all your credibility at once.
Predictability calms more than words do
The worst part for a patient is not knowing what happens next. A short sentence before each action — "I am only going to look with the mirror now", "this will feel cold" — lowers tension more than any "don’t worry" ever does.
Give them a brake
Agree a signal — a raised hand — that stops you at any point. Most people never use it. What matters is knowing they can, because then they stop bracing against the chair.
What not to do
- Comment on the state of their teeth with reproach.
- Ask why they left it so long.
- Talk to a colleague over the patient as though they were not there.
- Rush because time is short — they can feel it.
When the case is not for a teaching clinic
If fear prevents the examination itself, if the person cannot stay in the chair, or if sedation is needed, the case belongs in a different setting. That is discussed with a supervisor rather than overcome with patience.
What to do next
- Say what is about to happen before each step.
- Agree a signal the patient can use to stop you.
- With severe anxiety, discuss the case with a supervisor before continuing.
Sources
- Practical experience in teaching clinics (summarised)
Cover photo: RDNE Stock project · Pexels