How to Handle Anxiety at the Dentist

Overcoming Dental Anxiety: 9 Steps to a Comfortable Dental Experience

Dental anxiety affects an estimated 50 to 80 percent of adults in the U.S., ranging from mild nervousness to severe fear. Anxiety about dental visits can lead to missed appointments, worsening oral health, and stress over your smile. At In Motion Dentists in La Verne, California, we help patients manage dental anxiety so you can get the care you need with confidence and comfort.

1. Understand the Cause of Your Anxiety

Dental fear can stem from many sources, including:

• Past traumatic dental experiences
• Family members’ or peers’ dental experiences
• Media portrayals of dentistry
• Personality traits or cognitive factors

Other common concerns include fear of pain, loss of control, embarrassment over teeth, or discomfort with personal space. Understanding why you feel anxious is the first step toward managing it.

2. Identify Your Triggers

Triggers can intensify dental anxiety. Common examples include:

• Dental drills or needles
• Loud noises from equipment
• Lack of communication from the dental team
• Words like “pain” or “shot”
• Long wait times or hurried care

3. Find a Dentist Who Listens

Choose a dental professional who understands your anxiety and is willing to work with you. A dentist who listens and respects your concerns can make a significant difference in your comfort.

4. Talk About It

Inform your entire dental team—dentist, hygienist, and staff—about your anxiety and triggers. Discuss how they can help you feel in control, such as:

• Offering comfort amenities in the dental chair
• Agreeing on a signal to pause treatment
• Scheduling shorter appointments or phased treatments

5. Learn About Your Procedure

Knowledge is empowering. Ask your dentist to explain:

• What the procedure entails
• Why it’s necessary
• Possible alternatives and what to expect

Decide how much detail you want during your treatment to reduce surprises and anxiety.

6. Use Relaxation Techniques and Distractions

Distractions & Comfort Items:

• Bring headphones to listen to music
• Use a blanket or neck pillow
• Focus on a calming activity or memory

Relaxation Techniques:

• Deep breathing exercises
• Stress ball squeezes
• Visualization of a relaxing place or activity

Schedule appointments at times when you’re least rushed and most relaxed.

7. Ask About Sedation

If anxiety persists, sedation dentistry can help:

• Nitrous oxide (laughing gas): Induces a calm, tingling sensation, quickly reversed after treatment.
• Oral conscious sedation: Mild sedatives keep you relaxed, possibly dozing off.
• IV sedation: Strong, fast-acting sedation for minimal memory of the procedure; transportation is required.

8. Do Not Give Up

Anxiety levels may vary from visit to visit. Don’t get discouraged if one appointment is challenging. Work closely with your dental team—they handle patients with varying degrees of dental anxiety every day. Gradually, confidence will build.

9. Consider an Alternative to In-Office Visits

For some patients, the location itself triggers anxiety. Mobile dental care from In Motion Dentists allows you to receive dental care in locations where you feel most comfortable:

• Home
• Office
• Hotel

While most insurances don’t cover house-call fees, many patients find this option transforms their dental experience.

Ready for a Relaxing Dental Visit?

If you live near La Verne, California, and struggle with dental anxiety, In Motion Dentists can help. We bring comfortable, stress-free dental care to wherever you are—whether at home, in your office, or another convenient location.

Call today at (626) 594-0374 to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward a confident, relaxed smile.