Overcoming Dental Anxiety: How Reflexology at The Dental Barns Can Help

Putting Your Comfort and Wellbeing First

When we designed The Dental Barns, our goal was to create more than just a practice; it was to build a retreat where patients could feel genuinely at ease. This vision is in every detail, from the design we obsessed over to the welcoming coffee you sip. But our commitment to helping patients move from phobia to confidence goes even deeper. It’s why we introduced holistic therapies designed to actively calm the nervous system.

To explain how one of the most powerful of these therapies works, we sat down with our resident Clinical Reflexologist, Elle Parton, for a chat.

What exactly is reflexology, and how does it work?

Reflexology is a non-invasive, complementary therapy that works alongside conventional healthcare to help the body to re-balance and provide an overall sense of wellbeing. It works on the theory that the body’s organs and systems correspond to different points, or reflexes on the feet, hands, and ears. Stimulating these reflexes can aid relaxation, reduce stress and anxiety, improve circulation, and bring relief to a wide range of conditions.

How can reflexology help patients before a dental appointment?

Reflexology can help patients relax and reduce anxiety before a dental appointment by promoting overall calmness and stress relief. It may also improve circulation and release endorphins, which can help manage pain and discomfort. Additionally, reflexology can promote better sleep and reduce tension in muscles making patients feel more comfortable and prepared for the procedure.

What’s the atmosphere like at The Dental Barns for these sessions?

The atmosphere at The Dental Barns for reflexology sessions is calm, soothing and welcoming, designed to help patients relax and feel at ease. Countryside views, soft music and interior design create a comfortable ambience conductive to stress relief. The setting aims to promote a sense of tranquillity, helping patients feeling more relaxed before the dental procedures.

What’s your favourite feedback you’ve received so far?

‘The reflexology has made me feel the most relaxed I have ever felt and less anxious’

At The Dental Barns, we offer a lot of cosmetic treatments, including Invisalign, composite bonding, and veneers. How can reflexology open up these options to more patients?

Reflexology can help open cosmetic treatment options by reducing fear, stress, and anxiety that can deter patients from pursuing these treatments. By promoting relaxation and calming the nervous system within the body, reflexology makes patients feel more comfortable and confident about undergoing cosmetic treatments. This increased sense of ease can encourage more individuals to explore and commit to achieving their desired smile enhancements.
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Discover cosmetic services at The Dental Barns:
Composite Bonding, Veneers, Invisalign

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What first drew you to reflexology as a career?

I have always been interested in natural healing through alternative therapies and how they can work alongside conventional medicine. I am a great believer in treating the body as a whole and this is what drew me to reflexology. I first received reflexology whilst pregnant with my youngest son and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. My children are now older, and this has enabled me to pursue my ambition of becoming a fully qualified Clinical Reflexologis1t.

What’s your favourite part about working with Dental Barns patients?

It’s wonderful to be of service to others on such a personal level by using reflexology as a true holistic approach towards their overall health and wellbeing. It’s not just about helping them feel more relaxed and confident before their dental procedures, it goes much deeper. Over the years, I’ve assisted patients prime their bodies natural self-healing abilities and witnessed great results, finding it very rewarding. By having such passion and using intuition I love enhancing their dental experience and promoting holistic health.

Do you have a favourite zone of the foot to work on?

The pituitary gland point also often called the “master gland”, found in the centre of the big toe, influences various hormonal functions, including those related to stress. Gentle massage or pressure on this point can enhance the release of endorphins, the body’s natural stress relievers.

What do you like to do to relax, when you’re not helping others relax?

To unwind I enjoy watching a good film or box series to escape in to. With a background and passion for dance I also like to stay active by going to the gym and participating in dance fitness classes.

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Discover more about Elle's services on her website: https://www.ellereflexology.co.uk/

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If dental anxiety has held you back from achieving the smile you deserve, we hope this has shown you that a different kind of experience is possible. Our mission at The Dental Barns has always been to create a space where your comfort and wellbeing come first. Integrating therapies like clinical reflexology is a core part of that promise—a gentle, effective way to help you feel calm, relaxed, and in control of your dental health journey.

Discover your first visit here.