Let’s be honest for a minute. Walking into a dental office isn’t everyone’s idea of a good time. For some folks, just reading the word “dentist” can make their palms a little sweaty. If that sounds like you, you’re not alone. Dental anxiety is incredibly common, and it’s nothing to be embarrassed about. The important part is not letting it stand between you and a healthy smile.
At Coastal General Dentistry, we’ve spent over a decade helping patients just like you feel comfortable, informed, and at ease. We thought it might help to name the three biggest fears we hear, and explain exactly how we handle them.
Fear #1: “It’s Going to Hurt”
This is the big one. Maybe you had a rough experience years ago, or maybe you’ve just heard too many stories. Either way, the worry about pain keeps a lot of people away.
Here’s the truth: dentistry has changed. A lot.
Modern numbing agents are incredibly effective, and we use them carefully to make sure you’re truly comfortable before we begin. For many procedures, you’ll feel pressure or vibration, but not sharp pain. And if you’re nervous about the needle itself, just let us know. We have gentle techniques for that too.
For patients who need extra help relaxing, we offer several sedation options. Nitrous oxide (sometimes called laughing gas) often takes the edge off while you stay awake and aware. For longer or more complex visits, oral sedation or even IV sedation could help you feel completely at ease. We’ll walk you through every option and find what works best for you.
Fear #2: “I Don’t Know What’s Happening”
Have you ever sat in a chair while people talk over you and poke around your mouth with metal instruments, having no clue what they’re actually doing? Yeah, that feeling is unsettling.
Our approach is the exact opposite.
Before we do anything, we explain it. We show you. Dr. Sinclair, Dr. Reichley, and our whole team take time to understand your goals and talk through your options. You’ll never feel like you’re just along for the ride.
If you want to see your X-rays, we’ll pull them up. If you want to know why we’re recommending a certain treatment, we’ll break it down in plain language. You’re part of the conversation, not just a patient being worked on.
Fear #3: “I’ll Be Judged for My Teeth”
This one breaks our hearts, because we hear it so often. People come in apologizing. “I know I should have come sooner.” “I haven’t taken great care of them.” “I’m embarrassed about the shape they’re in.”
Please hear this: We are not here to judge you.
We’re here to help you. Every single person’s mouth tells a different story, and ours is not to critique the past. It’s to partner with you for a healthier future. Whether you need a simple cleaning or more involved care, you’ll be met with kindness, not lectures.
A Gentle Place to Start
Kristin, one of our patients, put it this way: “The real bonus is his excellent chairside manner and caring attitude.” That’s what we want every person who walks through our doors to feel.
If anxiety has kept you away, we get it. But you don’t have to tackle it alone. Give us a call at 757-216-9914, or request an appointment online. Let’s talk about what worries you and make a plan that feels right.
Your comfort matters to us. Always has, always will.