Dental anxiety refers to fear, stress, or worry associated with visiting the dentist or undergoing dental procedures. For some patients, it’s linked to specific triggers—such as the sound of dental instruments, a fear of pain, or a past negative experience—while others feel a general sense of unease about the dental environment. Left unaddressed, dental anxiety can lead to missed appointments, delayed care, and worsening oral health.

Everyone experiences anxiety differently, but some common signs include:

• Feeling nervous or panicked before or during a dental visit
• Avoiding dental appointments for long periods
• Trouble sleeping the night before a visit
• Increased heart rate or sweating in the dental chair
• Crying, nausea, or feeling overwhelmed during treatment
• Fear of losing control or feeling vulnerable

If any of these sound familiar, know that you are not alone—and that our team is here to help.

Understanding what causes dental anxiety is the first step toward managing it. These are some of the most common sources:

Fear of Pain

Some patients worry about discomfort, especially if they’ve had painful dental experiences in the past.

Loss of Control

Sitting in the dental chair can feel vulnerable, especially for those who like to stay in control of their surroundings.

Embarrassment

Concerns about the appearance of your teeth or potential judgment can make visits feel stressful.

Negative Past Experiences

A previous traumatic or uncomfortable dental visit can leave lasting impressions that trigger future anxiety.

Sensitivity to Sounds or Smells

Some patients have sensory sensitivities that are aggravated by the sights, sounds, or smells of a dental office.

At Bixby Hill Dental, we create a patient-first experience that focuses on empathy, transparency, and comfort. From the moment you walk in, our goal is to make you feel at ease and in control of your care.

Open Communication

We take the time to explain every step of your visit and answer any questions you have. You’re encouraged to express your concerns and set the pace that feels right for you.

Gentle Techniques

Our team uses gentle, modern techniques to minimize discomfort and reduce time in the chair.

Soothing Environment

We’ve designed our office to be calm, welcoming, and relaxing—with amenities and a team trained to support anxious patients.

Breaks and Control

We can schedule short appointments, allow you to take breaks, and establish signals to pause treatment if needed.

Sedation Options

For patients with moderate to severe anxiety, we may recommend nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or oral sedation to help you relax during your procedure.