Dental anxiety
If you’re afraid of going to the dentist, you’re not alone.
Learn how we support patients with dental anxiety at every step.
How to manage dental anxiety
Tell our team
Tell your hygienist or dentist if you have dental anxiety, and we can work through ways to make you feel more comfortable. Let us know when you book an appointment or when you arrive.
Set a safe signal
Use a simple sign, like raising your hand or tapping your shoulder, to let the dentist know you need a break. Knowing you can pause at any time can help you feel more in control.
Breathe and check in with yourself
It’s easy to hold your breath without realizing it. Holding your breath and tensing up can raise your stress levels, so try to focus on taking slow, deep breaths and relaxing your muscles from head to toe.
Take the appointment at your own pace
Give yourself plenty of time so you don’t feel rushed. Book your appointment when you’re less busy, like after work or on a weekend.
Consider sedation dentistry
Choose what’s right for you. Your dentist can walk you through options ranging from a mild sedative like nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to a stronger sedative so you can sleep through your appointment.
Hear what’s making our patients smile
Amazing service helped me so much with my teeth the workers are amazing and help alot I recommend this place for teeth and braces.
Highly Recommended I got my braces and flexible payment plans.
Dr. Dishaw, the orthodontist, was especially patient and caring with my son while applying his braces. He was nervous at first, but Dr. Dishaw reassured him every step of the way and made sure he felt comfortable. He even helped boost my son’s confidence by letting him have fun choosing his rubber band colors.
Dental anxiety FAQs
It’s not uncommon to feel nervous about going to the dentist, but for some people it can be a more severe phobia. Signs of dental anxiety include:
- Trouble sleeping the night before a dental exam
- Wanting to cry or feeling physically ill just thinking about the dentist
- Feeling increasingly nervous while you’re in the waiting room
- Feeling panicked or unable to breathe when you sit in a dentist chair
- Worrying about having a dental tool in your mouth
- Purposefully avoiding dental checkups out of fear
Yes. Our team is trained to help patients of all ages feel safe and supported during their visit. We can help young ones with dental anxiety at both our standard Brident offices and our specialized pediatric offices.
Sedation dentistry is also known as sleep dentistry. During sedation dentistry, a dentist may use nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help a patient relax during a checkup or use stronger medications to put a patient to sleep during more complex procedures.
Sedation dentistry may be recommended for procedures like tooth extractions, wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, or other oral surgeries. Talk with your dentist to understand your options and choose what’s right for you.
You’re in the right place! We care for patients at every stage—whether it’s been six months or six years. We’ll check your oral health, talk through any concerns, and make a plan that works for you.
Skipping dental visits can lead to serious issues like cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. Over time, poor oral health may also contribute to problems affecting your heart, lungs, and overall well-being.