Calming underwater scenes are among images being broadcast to patients in the chair at The Cottage Dental Practice on Ewell Road.

The patient relaxation programme images have won psychologists' seal of approval for their soothing effect and include headphones to make it an absorbing experience. Dentist Dr John Abraham said the new equipment installed a few weeks ago was ideal for those in for long procedures such as root canal work or cosmetic treatment. And because the screens are DVD, patients could even hire out a DVD film to watch to keep their minds off the operation.

"Nobody likes going to the dentist, we try our best but at the end of the day we are not the most popular people," said Dr Abraham.

"The idea behind this is that nervous patients can come and get totally relaxed. The response we have had has been tremendous, patients think it is marvellous."

For the brave of heart, a medi-cam can be hooked up to show patients what's going on in their mouths on the big screen.