Dental Anxiety and Fear

Overcoming Dental Anxiety

For many children and adults alike, just thinking about a dental visit can trigger fear or anxiety. But at Descanso Smiles: Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we’re changing that narrative—one gentle visit at a time.

We understand that dental anxiety is real, and we’re here to help every patient feel safe, supported, and in control. From the moment you walk through our doors, our team is focused on comfort, compassion, and creating positive dental experiences.

Common Dental Fears

Dental anxiety affects millions—and you're not alone. Common concerns include:

Embarrassment about the condition of the teeth
Fear of gagging
Fear of needles or injections
Worry about not getting numb or feeling pain
Fear of losing control or not being heard
Fear of the dentist or dental tools (like the drill)
Anxiety triggered by sounds, smells, or past experiences

The Good News? Modern Dentistry Has Come a Long Way

Thanks to advanced technology and gentle techniques, dental care is now more comfortable than ever. At Descanso Smiles, we use tools like:

Quiet laser technology for certain procedures
Safe, effective local anesthetics to eliminate pain
Minimally invasive techniques to reduce discomfort and speed up healing

Tips to Help Reduce Dental Fear & Anxiety

️ Talk to Us
You don’t have to keep your worries to yourself. Let us know what you’re feeling—we’ll tailor your visit to help ease your concerns and take things at a pace that works for you or your child.

Bring Music
Listening to calming music can help create a more peaceful atmosphere and mask the sounds of dental equipment.

✋ Agree on a Hand Signal
We always want our patients to feel in control. Before we begin, we can agree on a simple signal (like raising a hand) to pause or stop if needed.

‍ Throat Spray for Gag Reflex
If the gag reflex is a concern, using an over-the-counter throat spray (like Chloraseptic®) before your visit may help reduce sensitivity.

Use a Mirror (If Helpful)
Some patients feel calmer when they can see what’s happening. If this helps reduce the fear of the unknown, we’re happy to accommodate.

Ask About Sedation Options
For patients with severe anxiety, we offer safe sedation options. Whether it's nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”) or another gentle solution, sedation can help make dental treatment stress-free and smooth.

Explore Alternatives
We offer a range of treatment options, including laser dentistry and other gentle techniques. Let’s talk about what works best for your needs and comfort level.

You Deserve Stress-Free Dental Care

At Descanso Smiles, we prioritize creating a welcoming, positive environment for children and adults alike. Whether you’re a nervous parent, a first-time visitor, or helping your child overcome fear—we’re here to help every smile feel at ease.

Have questions about managing dental anxiety? Call us at 818-790-5959
Let us show you how gentle, modern dental care can change the way you feel about going to the dentist—for good.

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