Guide
Dental anxiety: how we help
If you've put off the dentist because of nerves, a bad experience or embarrassment, you're far from alone. Here's how we make visits easier — at your pace, and without judgment.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Rodolfo Rodriguez, DMD · Updated
You're not alone
Fear of pain, of needles, of the sounds, of losing control, or of being told off for how long it's been — these are some of the most common reasons people avoid the dentist. None of them is a reason to be embarrassed, and you won't be judged here.
How we help
- Tell us. When you book, or when you arrive. Knowing you're nervous changes how we plan the visit.
- Start with a conversation. Your first visit can be a talk and an exam, with no treatment unless you want it.
- Know what is happening. Dr. Rodriguez explains each step before he does it.
- Agree on a signal. Raise your hand and we stop.
- Take breaks. You can rest whenever you need to.
- Bring headphones. Many people relax with their own music or a podcast.
Sedation
For longer treatment, or when nerves run high, oral or IV sedation helps you feel deeply relaxed, and many people remember little of the visit. See sedation dentistry.
Fewer, longer visits
If a lot of work is needed, it can often be done in fewer visits with sedation. For people missing most of their teeth, All-on-4 usually places the implants in a single visit, and fixed provisional teeth follow within 24 hours in suitable cases.
FAQs
It's been years since I've been to a dentist. Where do I start?
What if I need a lot of work?
Related
Start with a conversation.
Tell us what's going on, in English or Spanish. We'll take it from there.