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Biting Back at Dental Anxiety: Tips for a Calmer Appointment

by | Jul 1, 2025 | Dental Office Trends

Comfortable Dental Chair in Raleigh, NC

Table of Contents

Key Points

  • Almost half of all adults report some level of anxiety related to going to the dentist. 
  • Dental anxiety is a serious issue that can dissuade patients from making or keeping much-needed routine exams and cleanings.
  • Fortunately, dental anxiety is entirely treatable, with tactics ranging from personal mindfulness and preparation, to tailored procedures and a dental environment conducive to comfort and ease.

Dental anxiety is a common barrier to oral health, keeping millions from seeking the care they need. According to a recent survey, a staggering 42 percent of adults said that they experienced at least moderate dental anxiety, while 12 percent of respondents said that their dental anxiety was extreme.1

If you are among these, it can be nice to know that you are not alone. However, such inclusion does nothing to address the profound impacts that dental anxiety can have on your quality of life. Moreover, dental anxiety is linked to less willingness to make or keep regular dental cleanings and checkups, which in turn results in poorer oral health outcomes.

The good news is that there are ways to address dental anxiety and combat its effects. At Loren, we are committed to helping patients understand and conquer their fears, ensuring every visit is as comfortable and stress-free as possible. The information below explores the underlying causes of dental anxiety and lays out some strategies for addressing it.

What Triggers Dental Anxiety?

Dental anxiety, sometimes called “dental phobia,” is more than just nerves before an appointment. It can range from mild unease to a debilitating fear of dentist visits that leads to avoidance and neglect of dental care.2

But what triggers dental anxiety? Common causes include:

  • Fear of pain: This is often rooted in past negative experiences or stories from others.
  • Fear of injections or anesthesia: Some patients worry about needles or side effects like numbness and dizziness.
  • Loss of control: Sitting in the dental chair, unable to see what is happening, can be unsettling, leading to fear and anxiety.
  • Embarrassment: Concerns about the appearance of teeth or mouth odors can cause or heighten sense of dental anxiety.
  • Previous trauma: A history of traumatic dental or healthcare experiences, or even unrelated trauma, can contribute to dental fear.
  • General anxiety or phobias: People with generalized anxiety, PTSD, or other similar conditions may be at higher risk of dental anxiety.

Triggers are highly individual. For some people, just the sound of a drill or the smell of a dental office can spark anxiety. For others, it is the anticipation of pain or memories of less-than-pleasant childhood experiences.

Knowing the underlying cause of dental anxiety may not alone be enough to stifle it. However, an understanding of what is happening can help in anticipating and combating the effects.

The Impacts of Dental Anxiety

Dental anxiety does not just affect your peace of mind—it can have real consequences for your health. People who avoid the dentist due to fear often miss out on preventive care, leading to more severe dental issues down the road. This has the potential to create a vicious cycle: the longer you wait, the more complex (and potentially uncomfortable) treatment becomes, reinforcing your fear of dentist visits.

Studies show that dental anxiety often begins in childhood and, if unaddressed, can persist into adulthood. Children with high dental fear are more likely to develop cavities and other oral health problems, highlighting the importance of early intervention.3

How Do You Treat Dental Anxiety?

The good news is that dental anxiety is entirely treatable. Here are some of the main ways that our Raleigh dentists and hygienists help patients overcome their fears:

1. Open Communication

Letting your dentist know you are anxious is the first step. A compassionate dentist will listen to your concerns, explain procedures in detail, and work with you to create a plan that addresses your specific triggers. If you ever feel your concerns are not taken seriously, do not hesitate to find a dentist who will prioritize your comfort.

2. Psychological Coping Techniques

  • Deep breathing and relaxation: Simple breathing exercises can help calm nerves before and during appointments.
  • Distraction: Listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks during treatment can shift focus away from anxiety.
  • Guided imagery and meditation: Visualizing a peaceful place or practicing mindfulness can reduce stress.4
  • Progressive muscle relaxation: This is the practice of tensing and relaxing muscle groups to help release physical tension.5

3. Sedation Dentistry

For those with severe dental phobia, sedation options are available. These range from nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oral sedatives to IV sedation, allowing you to remain calm and comfortable throughout your visit. Sedation dentistry is safe and effective, although it may involve some minor inconveniences, such as the need to have a friend or family member drive you home following the procedure.

4. Support Systems

Bringing a trusted friend or family member to your appointment can provide emotional support and reassurance.

5. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a proven psychological approach that helps patients change negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies for dental anxiety.6

6. Positive Reinforcement

Rewarding yourself after a successful appointment can help build positive associations with dental care. Go shopping, visit a bookstore, or have lunch out with a friend. Scheduling an afternoon at the spa or something enjoyable can aid in relaxation, but all of these examples also give you something to look forward to during the appointment.

7. Finding the Right Dentist

One of the best things you can do to combat the effects of anxiety during a dental visit is to find a practice that offers support. A simple but impactful example is the patient understanding what to expect during an appointment, which can demystify procedures and reduce fear. A good dental practice will know this and make sure every patient has all of the information they need.

Another general example is finding an office with a patient-centered approach. Look for practices that leverage advanced technologies that are less invasive, thereby limiting discomfort wherever possible. For instance, modern, high-resolution 3D imaging equipment allows patients to forgo the uneasiness of traditional impressions.

Cheat Sheet for Addressing Dental Anxiety at Your Next Visit

  • Schedule appointments at less busy times to minimize waiting and stress.
  • Bring headphones and your favorite playlist to distract yourself during treatment.
  • Agree on a hand signal with your dentist so you can pause the procedure if needed.
  • Ask about sedation options if your anxiety is severe.
  • Practice relaxation techniques before and during your visit.
  • Reward yourself after your appointment to reinforce positive experiences.

Take the First Step Toward a Healthier, Happier Smile

Dental anxiety is common, but you do not have to let it affect your oral health. Following the advice above—including preparing for a visit, practicing mindfulness, and finding the right dental practice—can help you overcome any fears or anxiety you might have.

If you are looking for a dentist to help you combat dental anxiety, consider our practice. At Loren, we offer educational resources and are happy to answer any questions you have, during or leading up to the visit. We also stay at the forefront of advances in dental technology that promote comfort without sacrificing health outcomes.

Finally, we strive to create a welcoming, judgment-free environment for every patient. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and discover how comfortable and stress-free dental visits can be with the right support.

References

  1. “Adult Oral Health Survey 2021: Service Use and Barriers to Accessing Care,” Office for Health Improvement & Disparities,” January 2024, https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/adult-oral-health-survey-2021/adult-oral-health-survey-2021-service-use-and-barriers-to-accessing-care.
  2. Robert Brennan, DDS, “Easing Dental Fear in Adults,” WebMD, October 2024, https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/easing-dental-fear-adults.
  3. Christian H Winkler, Monika Bjelopavlovic, Karl M Lehmann, et al., “Impact of Dental Anxiety on Dental Care Routine and Oral-Health-Related Quality of Life in a German Adult Population—A Cross-Sectional Study,” Journal of Clinical Medicine, August 2023, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10455740/.
  4. J. David Creswell, PhD, and Bassam Khoury, PhD, “Mindfulness Meditation,” American Psychological Association, October 2019, https://www.apa.org/topics/mindfulness/meditation.
  5. Syazwina Muhammad Khir, Wan Mohd Azam Wan Mohd Yunus, Norashikin Mahmud, “Efficacy of Progressive Muscle Relaxation in Adults for Stress, Anxiety, and Depression: A Systematic Review, Psychology Research and Behavior Management, February 2024, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10844009/.
  6. Mayo Clinic Staff, “Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mayo Clinic, February 2025, https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/cognitive-behavioral-therapy/about/pac-20384610.