How to overcome dental anxiety

Hands up if just the thought of going to the dentist fills you with dread! Skye Dental founders DR ANDREW DOIG and DR MAY EIDE feel that dental anxiety is one of the most common barriers preventing people from seeking treatment. Yet, delaying it can allow small issues to turn into complicated ones. See what these two dentists in Singapore have to say on the topic, and what can help.

How to overcome dental anxiety

#1 A calm, welcoming environment

“First impressions matter; a soothing, thoughtfully designed clinic can significantly reduce anxiety before a patient even sits in the dental chair,” say Dr Andrew and Dr May.

At Skye Dental, the founders designed the clinic themselves, believing that all the senses should be involved in creating a calm atmosphere. They’ve considered everything “from the subtle pleasant scent when you enter, to the soft music in the background, the most comfortable dental chairs available and the gentle touch that all our dentists in Singapore provide”. You won’t need to worry about old-fashioned impressions or moulds either, as they have been replaced with digital scanning technology.

#2 Trust through communication with your dentists

“Clear, compassionate communication is one of the most effective tools for overcoming the fear of the dentist,” they explain. The key? Taking the time to listen to patients’ concerns, validate their feelings and explain procedures in simple, non-technical language. “Letting patients know what to expect, step by step, reduces fear of the unknown, which is often the greatest fear. Transparency is fundamental in making patients feel good about their dental treatment.”

#3 Comfort takes priority

Fear of pain is managed carefully at Skye Dental. Dr Andrew believes that all patients, no matter their age, deserve pain-free treatment. That’s why he uses “The Wand”, a computer-assisted anaesthetic delivery system that makes injections painless. He has made the use of this technique compulsory for every procedure. For patients with higher levels of anxiety, Dr Andrew shares that sedation is a good option to help them get the treatment they need without much recollection of it and minimal discomfort.

#4 Modern technology and digital dentistry

Dr Andrew’s vision is for all dentists in Singapore to utilise digital dentistry in every aspect of their work, designed to reduce discomfort, shorten treatment times and improve outcomes. Skye Dental is the only certified Digital Smile Design (DSD) clinic in Singapore, with Dr Andrew being a certified DSD Master. This unique practice often allows for less invasive treatment, protecting natural teeth while enhancing outcomes.

Meanwhile, Dr May, who focuses exclusively on orthodontics, uses digital dentistry and Invisalign to accurately and predictably move your teeth and help you achieve your dream smile.

#5 Prevention over cure

Preventive care means you can often avoid the more invasive procedures that cause anxiety in the first place. Dr May is a great believer in early intervention for children when it comes to orthodontics, which helps to reduce the severity of problems that may be the source of bullying or lack of confidence later on.

#6 A compassionate team

“Ultimately, overcoming dental anxiety requires empathy,” say Dr Andrew and Dr May. “When you feel genuinely cared for, you are more likely to not fear your dentist, trust the practice and prioritise your oral health. Our whole team is trained to listen to your needs. It’s not just about teeth, it’s about you.”

About these dentists in Singapore

Husband-and-wife team Dr Andrew Doig and Dr May Ling Eide lead Skye Dental with a modern, patient-centred approach to cosmetic and family dentistry. Dr Doig is a Digital Smile Design (DSD) Master and experienced general dental practitioner, while Dr Eide received specialty training in orthodontics in the UK.

Skye Dental
38 Club Street
6980 5751 | skyedental.sg | contact@skyedental.sg

This article on dentists in Singapore and how to overcome dental anxiety first appeared in the February 2026 issue of Expat Living magazine. You can buy the latest issue or an annual subscription, or read the digital version free now.

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