First trust, then treat
A visit to an oral care practice can be stressful. Perhaps you have been in pain before, felt unheard, or feared losing control. Some people postpone an appointment for years as a result. At Van Hoften Tandprothetiek we think it is important that you know: You do not have to get rid of your fear before you can come to us.
Our goal is not to help you get through treatment as quickly as possible. Our goal is for you to understand what is happening, influence the pace and rebuild trust step by step. So that you ultimately come in with less tension and leave with more confidence – and hopefully a smile.
We listen first
Your story, previous experiences, concerns and wishes are the starting point. Fear is not dismissed or condemned.
You remain in control
We agree on a clear pause signal. You can always ask questions, take a moment to rest or indicate that something is still going too fast.
No surprises
For each step we explain what we want to do, why it is necessary and what you might notice. We will only start after your permission.
Guidance from A to Z
From the first telephone call and intake to fitting, placement and aftercare: you know who is guiding you and what the next step is.
The intake is the most important moment
The first appointment is an opportunity to get acquainted. We take time to understand what makes you anxious and what has or has not helped before. You do not need to give a polished or complete account. Saying “I find this very stressful” is enough to start the conversation.
What do we discuss during the introduction?
- What exactly are you afraid or anxious about?
- What previous experiences play a role?
- What helps you to calm down?
- Do you want to know everything in detail in advance or would you rather know it in small pieces?
- Would you like a partner, family member or supervisor to be present?
- Which break signal will we agree on together?
- What would you ultimately like to be able to do again: eat, speak, laugh or go outside without shame?
We may carefully look in your mouth during the intake. We will only do this when you are ready and after we have explained what we want to watch. If getting to know you and listening is enough that day, we will discuss together what an appropriate next step could be.
Your guidance from A to Z
- The first contact. You can immediately say that you are anxious. We take this into account when planning and tell you what to expect from the first appointment.
- Acquaintance and listening. We discuss your experiences, concerns, wishes and what you need to build trust.
- Watch when you're ready. We first explain what we want to investigate. You decide together with us whether this will work during the intake or whether it would be more appropriate at a later time.
- An understandable treatment plan. You will receive an explanation about options, alternatives, agreements, costs and reimbursement. Nothing is done “in between” without consultation.
- Preparing for every appointment. We tell you which step follows, approximately how long it takes and what you can indicate when you need rest.
- Guidance during treatment. We continue to keep in touch, announce actions, check how things are going and respect the agreed pause signal.
- Try-in, fitting and getting used to your denture. We also take your tension seriously. You will receive an explanation about use, maintenance, pressure points and what may be normal during the adjustment process.
- Aftercare and further building trust. You remain welcome with questions or concerns. Every positive experience can make your next appointment less stressful.
This way you stay in control during an appointment
| Appointment | What you can expect from us |
|---|---|
| We agree on a stop signal | For example, raise your hand. When you give this signal, we will stop as soon as it is safe to do so and discuss what you need. |
| We ask permission | You will first hear what we want to do. You can ask questions and make a decision before we proceed. |
| We work in clear steps | Not everything has to happen at once. We decide together which steps and how many appointments are needed, based on your mouth and what you can comfortably manage. |
| We explain sounds and feelings | If something makes noise, can cause pressure or feels different, we tell you this as clearly as possible in advance. |
| An accompanying person is welcome | A trusted person can help listen, remember questions and provide peace of mind. Discuss this when scheduling the appointment. |
| You may indicate what does not help | One person wants a lot of explanation, the other wants short sentences and silence. Tell us which approach suits you. |
For tooth extraction or implants
When teeth or molars need to be removed or implants are examined and placed, Implant Company can carry out part of the process as an independent care provider within our practice. You will also hear in advance who does and bills which part.
Van Hoften Tandprothetiek supervises the dental prosthetic part. Implant Company discusses the medical or surgical part, the anesthesia, risks and consent. With your permission, the practitioners involved will coordinate the planning, so that you do not have to tie all the steps together yourself.
What can you do yourself before the appointment?
- When planning, explain that you are afraid or tense.
- Write down your most important questions and concerns in advance.
- Take someone you trust with you.
- If possible, don't schedule a hasty commitment right after the appointment.
- Only use sedative medication if this has been discussed with a doctor and the practitioner; do not come to the appointment yourself under the influence.
- Bring a current medication overview when health or medication may be important for the treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be treated immediately during the first appointment?
The first appointment focuses on getting acquainted, listening and assessing what you need. We do not carry out treatment without explanation and consent. You decide together with us whether we examine your mouth.
I'm ashamed because I haven't been for a long time. Is that a problem?
No. Shame and procrastination often come together with fear. We are here to look ahead with you from today, not to judge you for what failed before.
Can I bring someone?
Yes. A partner, family member, informal caregiver or supervisor is welcome if that gives you peace of mind. Please let us know in advance.
Can I stop during treatment?
We agree on a clear pause signal in advance. If you use this, we will stop as soon as it is safe to do so. We will then discuss whether you want to continue, need more explanation or would rather make a new appointment.
What if I gag or panic easily?
Mention this during the initial consultation. We can then take your position in the chair, the pace, explanations and rest breaks into account. Not every method suits everyone; we explore what is possible for you together.
Can you promise that my fear will disappear completely?
No, we can't promise that. We do promise that we will take your fears seriously, communicate clearly and give you as much control as possible. The goal is for trust to grow step by step.
The first step may be small
You do not need to decide on treatment today. A phone call or an initial meeting can be your first step. Tell us what makes you anxious; we will start there.