You are not alone
Fear of the dentist is one of the most common anxieties there is. It doesn't make you weak or irrational. For many people, it comes from a painful or distressing experience in childhood or at a previous practice. For others, it's the loss of control, the sounds, or simply the unknown.
At Studio Marcato, we have helped hundreds of anxious patients get the dental care they need — including many who hadn't been to a dentist in years. We take dental anxiety seriously and adapt how we work to accommodate it.
How we work with nervous patients
- Tell us beforehand. When you WhatsApp to book, mention that you are anxious. We schedule extra time, choose a quieter slot where possible, and flag your file so every member of the team is prepared.
- Tell-show-do. Before any procedure, we explain what we are going to do and show you any instruments involved. Nothing happens without your knowledge and agreement.
- Stop signal. Raise your hand and we stop — immediately and without question. You are in control at every moment.
- No pressure. We will never push you into treatment you're not ready for. If you need to stop after the check-up and come back another time for treatment, that is absolutely fine.
- Adequate anaesthesia. Pain during dental treatment is often the root cause of ongoing anxiety. We take time with local anaesthetic — applying a topical numbing gel first, injecting slowly, and checking you are fully numb before starting any procedure. If you feel pain, raise your hand and we add more.
- Music and distraction. Bring headphones and your favourite playlist. Many patients find it significantly reduces their anxiety. We can also use a radio in the room if you prefer background noise to silence.
Why avoiding the dentist makes anxiety worse
Avoidance is the most natural response to dental anxiety — but it has a cruel twist. The longer you avoid, the more likely problems will develop, and the more treatment you'll eventually need. More treatment means longer appointments and more exposure to the things that cause anxiety in the first place.
The best thing you can do for your dental anxiety is to come in for a simple check-up with no commitment to treatment. Just a look. If we find problems, we tell you — but we don't force action. And for many anxious patients, taking that first step and finding that it's manageable breaks the cycle.
For anxious tourists in Naples
If you have dental anxiety and find yourself needing dental care while visiting Naples, please don't suffer in silence. Our team speaks English and handles anxious patients with particular care. A dental emergency is already stressful — you don't need the additional stress of language barriers or feeling rushed.
WhatsApp us with a brief description of your situation. Tell us you're anxious. We will work with you.