About Me

Hi, my name is Jess. I'm a singer and music teacher in Liverpool City Centre. I also have a severe phobia of the dentist, stemming from a combination of factors, including historic sexual abuse and previous dental trauma

Last year, I decided to take matters into my own hands and regain control over my oral health. I specifically sought out a dentist certified to work with phobic patients.

I am very proud of the progress I’ve made so far — I am now able to step foot inside a dental surgery, sit in the chair, and receive treatments in short bursts. Believe me, even picking up the phone to make an appointment was completely impossible before this.

However, I have developed two infections — one in a tooth initially damaged by a previous dentist, and one in a wisdom tooth, both on the same side.

Both teeth need to be removed as a matter of urgency. While I am ultimately working towards being able to replace fillings and continue normal dental care, I am not yet psychologically ready to have an extraction without sedation, never mind two.

What I’ve Done Already

• Found a dentist willing to work with my phobia. This is already expensive, as a private practice was the only option.

• Built up slowly, working with my dentist to acclimatise to receiving treatment.

• Attended appointments with a friend for support — I am lucky to have a great network.

• Tried oral sedatives in the past, with limited success. I’ve requested an appointment with my doctor to discuss these further.

• Requested a referral to an NHS dental hospital for IV sedation. Unfortunately, between the referral being sent and now, the infection worsened, causing swelling near my eye. It is now extremely urgent that these teeth are removed, and I have no idea how long I will have to wait for the NHS referral.

I am reaching out because private dental treatment with IV sedation is the only way I can safely have these teeth removed in a timely manner, without undoing all the hard work i have done to alleviate my phobia so far. I simply do not have the funds for this treatment, and this is not elective or cosmetic — it’s essential for my health and wellbeing. Any support, whether through a donation or by sharing this page, would mean the world and help me finally put an end to the pain, infection, and anxiety that have been controlling my life. Thank you for taking the time to read my story.

If any funds remain after my treatment, I will donate these to NoPanic.org (Registered charity number 1018184), who help people with panic/anxiety disorders and phobias receive help and treatment to alleviate the symptoms of their condition(s) and live happier and healthier lives.