So nervous for first dentist appointment in a decade

I've had TMJ (jaw pain from night clenching)pain for years so have avoided going to the dentist for quite a long while. I've brushed and flossed and kept teeth clean but I know I probably have a cavity, so made an appointment. I'm so nervous because my jaw is misaligned from night clenching, and I can't keep my mouth open for too long. It can occasionally yield vertigo. Plus the TMJ pain creeps in at any time .

I hope they do give me breaks to close my mouth and ice pack my jaw. I know they said the dentist is very good, but am really on edge for this. Please send positive thoughts 😦🫂

This page is a permanent link to the reply below and its nested replies. See all post replies »

beermeplease · M

not to worry...it was a long time between dental visits myself. had to have a molar extracted and i was nervous as hell.....by the time it was done i walked out of the dentist thinking...."that wasn't so bad at all"....you will say the same thing to yourself....you'll be just fine 🤗

Coralmist · 41-45, F

@beermeplease Glad it went smoothly. 🌻 I just hope I don't get vertigo from my misaligned jaw ugh. I know they can let you take breaks though, I'll need them. Thanks for your words today, I really appreciate that 🌹