Dental anxiety affects millions of Americans, with up to 60% of people experiencing nervousness about dental visits. At Dr. Conor Gessell’s practice in Southern Pines, NC, we understand that dental fear can range from mild uneasiness to severe phobia. Dr. Gessell and our team are committed to helping anxious patients receive care while feeling comfortable, respected, and in control.
Understanding Dental Anxiety
Dental anxiety develops for many reasons. Some patients have had negative past experiences that created lasting apprehension. Others feel vulnerable while lying in the dental chair with someone working close to their face. Common concerns include fear of pain, embarrassment about dental conditions, and worry about potential judgments. Many patients feel anxious about the sounds, smells, or sensations of dental procedures. The loss of control during treatment can trigger anxiety, while others worry specifically about needles, gagging, or treatment costs.
Whatever the source of your anxiety, know that it’s a legitimate concern shared by many. At Dr. Gessell’s practice, we never dismiss these feelings or suggest patients should simply “get over it.” Instead, we recognize dental anxiety as a real challenge deserving compassion and practical solutions.
How Dental Anxiety Affects Oral Health
When anxiety prevents regular dental visits, oral health suffers. Minor issues that could be addressed easily may progress to serious conditions requiring complex treatment. This creates a troubling cycle: avoiding dental care leads to worsening problems, which then require more extensive procedures, potentially reinforcing the original anxiety.
Some anxious patients only seek dental care when in pain, by which point treatments may be more involved than with regular preventive care. Others attempt to manage dental problems on their own, delaying appropriate professional treatment.
Beyond oral health, untreated dental issues can affect overall wellbeing, potentially contributing to problems with nutrition, sleep, self-confidence, and even systemic health conditions like heart disease and diabetes, which have been linked to poor oral health.
Dr. Gessell’s Approach to Dental Anxiety
At our Southern Pines practice, addressing dental anxiety begins before you sit in the dental chair. From your first contact, our team creates a welcoming, non-judgmental environment where your concerns are heard and respected.
During your initial visit, Dr. Gessell takes time to understand your specific anxieties and previous dental experiences. We explain procedures thoroughly in plain language, answering all questions so you know what to expect.
Our patient-centered approach puts you in control. We establish clear signals you can use during treatment if you need a break, and we honor these signals consistently. Dr. Gessell works at a pace that feels comfortable for you, never rushing or pressuring you to accept treatments you’re not ready for.
Our office environment is designed with comfort in mind, from calming décor to amenities like noise-canceling headphones, weighted blankets, and entertainment options. We schedule extra time for anxious patients, eliminating the rushed feeling that can heighten nervousness.
For patients with more severe anxiety, Dr. Gessell offers various comfort options. Nitrous oxide provides mild sedation that wears off quickly after your appointment. Oral sedation medications can help reduce anxiety before and during your visit. Dr. Gessell will discuss these options if appropriate for your situation.
Strategies for Managing Dental Anxiety
Beyond our accommodations, certain strategies can help you manage dental anxiety. Many patients find morning appointments work best, as they leave less time for anxiety to build throughout the day. Practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or guided imagery can help calm your nervous system.
Being open about your fears allows us to adapt our approach specifically for you. Some patients benefit from starting with shorter, simpler appointments to build confidence before progressing to more involved procedures.
Bringing a supportive friend or family member can provide reassurance, while using distractions like music or podcasts can help shift focus away from the dental procedure.
Your Partner in Comfortable Dental Care
At Dr. Conor Gessell’s dental practice in Southern Pines, we believe everyone deserves access to comfortable, stress-free dental care. Your oral health is too important to be compromised by anxiety, and we’re committed to helping you overcome these barriers. Contact us at 910-390-1259 or use our online appointment request form today.