We Understand. We Listen. We Treat.
It is completely normal to feel apprehensive about visiting the dentist; however, when that apprehension develops into genuine dental anxiety, it can become a serious obstacle to maintaining your health. At Arvada Dental Excellence, exceptional care starts with addressing the person, not just the teeth. We are dedicated to creating an environment where fear is replaced with comfort and trust. You are not alone, and we are here to help you move past it. We want you to feel comfortable and confident in getting the treatment you need.
Common reasons for dental anxiety include…
A prior negative dental experience or traumatic memory.
The expectation that treatment will be painful or uncomfortable.
Afraid of judgment from the dentist or hygienist.
Loss of control or helplessness in the dental chair.
How does dental anxiety affect oral health?
While dental anxiety in and of itself will not cause a cavity, avoiding treatment certainly will. We’ve worked with many patients who have avoided treatment or even a routine exam due to their fear. When this happens, minor problems build up and issues only develop further, harming your oral health and often leading to more advanced, invasive forms of treatment. This is why overcoming dental fear is vital for your long-term health.
Dental Anxiety Management
If you are experiencing dental anxiety, the simplest first step is to let our team know when you book your appointment. This allows Dr. Ganong and our compassionate staff to tailor your experience from the moment you walk through the door, ensuring you feel heard and comfortable immediately. We prioritize communication and control throughout your visit.
Suffering from dental anxiety and don’t feel comfortable scheduling an appointment quite yet? Give us a call today and we’ll answer all your questions about how we can help ease any fears you may be experiencing.
Gentle Solutions for the Whole Family
Dr. Ganong and our compassionate team specialize in making dentistry a positive, stress-free experience. Our comprehensive approach includes a range of gentle treatments and amenities designed for maximum relaxation:
Communication & Control:
Every step of your treatment is explained upfront. We use simple hand signals so you can pause or stop the procedure at any time you need to; you are always in complete control.
Sedation Options:
For patients with significant fear, we offer safe and effective dental anxiety medication. This may include oral conscious sedation or nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to ensure a deeply relaxed state, transforming a stressful procedure into a calm, comfortable experience.
Comfort Amenities:
Enjoy noise-canceling headphones, warm blankets, and personalized music to distract and soothe you during your appointment.
No-Judgment Appointments:
We focus on your future health and comfort, not on dwelling on past care habits.
frequently asked questions
(FAQs)
What can I do to lessen my dental anxiety during a visit?
Dental anxiety can be a tough nut to crack—but you don’t have to face it on your own! Some techniques we encourage patients to use to lessen their anxiety include:
- Talking with your hygienist or dentist about your specific fears.
- Using our designated hand signals to let us know when you need a break or want to stop.
- Using breathing and mindfulness techniques to help you relax.
Do you offer sedation options for anxiety?
Yes. We offer various dental anxiety medication options, including nitrous oxide and oral sedation, which can be safely used for routine cleanings or complex procedures. We will discuss your health history to determine the best option for your needs.
How do you ensure children are comfortable during their appointment?
We use a “tell-show-do” approach, explaining every tool and step in a non-scary, kid-friendly way. Our patience, positive reinforcement, and specialized training help children realize that visiting the dentist can be a fun and rewarding part of staying healthy.
Schedule your first visit
Don’t let dental anxiety keep you from the exceptional care you deserve. Schedule a consultation today and discover the Arvada Dental Excellence difference.
