Feeling nervous about going to the dentist? You’re not alone. Dental anxiety is common, affecting around 36% of people in the U.S., whether it stems from a past experience, fear of pain, or simply not knowing what to expect.
At Shrewsbury Dental Associates, we understand these feelings are real and valid. That’s why we’ve created a calm, welcoming environment where your comfort comes first. From the moment you step through our doors, our goal is to make sure every patient feels supported, informed, and at ease.
Let’s explore what dental anxiety is, its causes, and how you and our dental team can work together to make your visits as stress-free as possible.
According to the American Dental Association, dental anxiety can refer to feelings of fear, stress, or nervousness related to visiting the dentist. For some, it’s a mild uneasiness before an appointment. For others, it can be overwhelming enough to delay or avoid dental care altogether.
Common signs of dental anxiety include:
• Trouble sleeping the night before a dental appointment.
• Increased heart rate or feeling panicked while in the waiting room.
• Sweating or feeling faint at the idea of dental tools or procedures.
• Avoiding dental care until the pain becomes unbearable.
The good news? Dental anxiety is very manageable, and at Shrewsbury Dental Associates, helping patients feel safe and cared for is just as important as the treatment itself.
Understanding where dental anxiety comes from can help you feel more in control of your experience. Some of the most common causes include:
• Past negative experiences. A painful or rushed appointment in the past can leave a lasting impression.
• Fear of pain. Dental procedures used to be more uncomfortable; however, modern dentistry is far more gentle.
• Loss of control or embarrassment. Some patients feel vulnerable in the dental chair or self-conscious about the condition of their teeth.
• Sensory triggers. Sounds, smells, and the feel of dental tools can trigger anxiety for many people.
At Shrewsbury Dental Associates, we center our patients' comfort and never judge. We take the time to explain processes, answer questions, and minimize any possible discomfort.
At Shrewsbury Dental Associates, we prioritize your comfort at every step. Here’s how we help patients manage dental anxiety and build trust in the dental chair.
Whether it’s been six months or six years since your last visit, our team is here to help, not judge. We meet you where you are and work with you to create a treatment plan at your own pace.
Fear often comes from the unknown. We take time to explain what we’re doing before and during your visit, answer your questions, and let you know what to expect so there are no surprises.
We use the latest tools and technology to make procedures more efficient and less invasive. That means less time in the chair and a much more comfortable experience.
For patients with moderate to severe dental anxiety, we offer sedation options to help you relax during treatment. Our office provides a couple of options:
• Nitrous oxide is a popular option where patients inhale a sweet-smelling gas that induces a state of relaxation.
• Oral sedation is perfect for those who prefer to take a pill before their appointment to help ease their nerves.
Want to find the right sedation option for you? Please call our office at (717) 235-7015 to schedule a convenient consultation appointment.
Our team of dentists, hygienists, and office staff take time to build genuine relationships with our patients. Many people find that seeing the same friendly faces each visit helps reduce stress over time.
Alongside our support, there are steps you can take to feel more confident and in control before your appointment:
• Talk to us. Let us know if you’re feeling anxious.
• Bring a friend or loved one. As a family practice, we understand that having someone you trust at your side can make a world of difference.
• Schedule a morning appointment. This gives you less time to dwell on worries throughout the day.
Whether you're dealing with dental anxiety for the first time or have been avoiding the dentist for years, we want you to know that you’re not alone, and we’re here to help.
Everyone deserves a smile they love, and at Shrewsbury Dental Associates, our kind and caring staff will ensure dental anxiety doesn’t keep you from our chair. Schedule your next visit today and let us help make it as stress-free as possible.
