That sense of nervousness—or even dread—about visiting the dentist is far more common than most people realize. Even patients with access, choice, and positive past experiences can feel uneasy as an appointment approaches. Anxiety in action ranges from mild fidgety feelings to overwhelming dysregulation. Dental anxiety exists on a spectrum, and Dr. Gary Horblitt and our team recognize it as real and valid. So, is it normal to be nervous when visiting the dentist? It’s not abnormal! Our goal is to help you feel comfortable, respected, and supported—so maintaining your oral health never has to come with fear or negative associations.
If you need a compassionate and understanding dentist, supported by a team of like-minded professionals, please call Gary Horblitt, DDS, a respected general dentist and prosthodontist in the Fairfield, CT, area. Dr. Horblitt is a respected leader, teacher, presenter, and author. His expertise and experience will serve you well, and our entire team is trained to accommodate patients with anxiety. We will work diligently to help you experience peace of mind and body throughout your time with us. You have to take the first step: call us today at (203) 335-1011.
Many People Feel Anxious About Dental Visits
According to U.S. research, nearly 36% of adults experience dental anxiety, and an estimated 12% report extreme fear—while up to 5% avoid the dentist altogether due to dental phobia. In other words, dental anxiety is not rare or irrational; it’s a widespread and well-documented health concern.
Common dental anxiety triggers include:
- Past negative or traumatic dental experiences
- Fear of pain, discomfort, or sensitivity
- Sensory overload from sounds, smells, or dental instruments
- Loss of control or uncertainty about what will happen during treatment
- Physical discomfort in the dental chair
- Special needs patients/cognitive concerns
Proactively Reduce Nervousness Before Your Visit
A quick visit to YouTube will reveal a wealth of options for in-the-moment anxiety reduction. For instance, slow, deep breathing relaxes the nervous system. Focusing on steady breath rhythm, by counting or using music, can intensify the relaxation effects. Purposefully relaxing the jaw, neck, face, shoulders, and hands also helps. Another tactic is to visualize a calm or familiar place with your eyes closed, transporting your mind to familiar safety.
All of these tactics can be done any time, anywhere, to center your peace and regulate your body’s anxiety response.
We Help Patients Feel at Ease & Confident
Comfort First
Your comfort is paramount to our team. From your first call to each experience in our beautiful, high-tech office, you will be welcomed, valued, and respected. If we can do anything to improve your experience, do not hesitate to ask. Everyone on our team looks forward to serving you with compassion and professionalism.
Communication
Our team and surroundings were built to promote consistent, open communication between team members, as well as between our patients and us. Please, ask questions, tell us what you need and how you’re feeling mentally and physically, and allow us the opportunity to put your comfort first the entire time you’re with us.
Nitrous Oxide
In addition to local anesthetic for proactive pain relief, we also offer nitrous oxide. With a long history of safety and success, “laughing gas” is a gold standard for dental pain today. We administer this gas through a facemask, and the effects are instant. You will feel groggy and pleasant, but you’ll fully retain the ability to respond and interact. Once your procedure ends and we stop delivering nitrous oxide, the effects wear off within moments. This means, you can drive and work after your appointment, so it won’t interrupt your life.
Consistent Prevention
Preventive care may not seem like it would reduce dental anxiety, but it plays an important role. Daily at-home oral care and routine six-month checkups help prevent tooth decay and gum disease, reducing the need for more extensive treatment. When dental visits are primarily preventive, appointments become predictable and easier to mentally prepare for. Over time, consistency builds trust with your dental team, leading to greater comfort, confidence, and peace of mind at every visit.
We Help Patients Overcome Dental Anxiety
Listen: we hear you. We understand and respect the reality and issues surrounding dental anxiety, fear, and phobia. Our team’s calm, comprehensive approach to your care will help you feel reassurance and confidence in our care. The first step is scheduling an appointment, and we formally invite you to do so right now. Just call us at (203) 335-1011.
