What if I haven't been to the dentist in a long time and I feel embarrassed?
If it's been years since your last dental visit, you're not alone. Many people delay seeing the dentist because of embarrassment, previous negative experiences, or anxiety about what they might hear.
At Angelina Anisimova, DDS Family Dentistry, our goal is to help, not judge. We understand that every patient has a unique story, and we're here to listen to your concerns and help you move forward at a pace that feels comfortable.
If you're nervous about scheduling an appointment, start with a conversation. Meet the team, ask questions, and let us know what has kept you away from dental care. Building trust is often the first step toward improving your oral health. Call us at (636) 434-1244.
If you have had a negative dental experience in the past, we want you to know that compassionate, judgment-free care is our priority. If we cannot provide the care you need, we'll help you find someone who can.
What can we do about dental anxiety?
Dental anxiety is very common, and there are many ways we can help make your visits more comfortable.
Depending on your needs and medical history, treatment options may include:
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
- Prescription anti-anxiety medication taken before your appointment
- Shorter appointments to help you become comfortable with treatment
- A treatment plan designed to restore your oral health as efficiently as possible
Many anxious patients find that once they complete the initial treatment, maintaining their oral health through routine cleanings becomes much easier.
For patients with severe dental anxiety or dental phobia, we may recommend working with your physician or a mental health professional before treatment begins. Addressing anxiety from multiple angles can make your dental visits much more manageable.
Our goal is to make every appointment as comfortable, efficient, and stress-free as possible while providing the care you need.
I have a severe gag reflex. What can I do?
A sensitive gag reflex is something we see regularly, and there are techniques we can use to make dental treatment more comfortable.
One of the biggest challenges is often taking dental X-rays. Although modern digital X-rays are much faster than older systems, the sensor can still feel bulky for some patients.
Our experienced dental team works efficiently and uses techniques that help minimize the gag reflex during X-rays and other procedures. For many patients, once the X-rays are complete, the remainder of the appointment is much more comfortable.
If you have a strong gag reflex, let us know before your appointment so we can adjust your treatment accordingly.
I'm afraid of needles. What can you do to make treatment more comfortable?
Fear of needles is one of the most common concerns we hear from patients. Fortunately, there are several techniques we use to make dental injections as comfortable as possible.
Before administering local anesthetic, we apply a topical numbing gel and allow it time to take effect. This helps reduce discomfort during the injection.
Many patients are surprised to learn that injections inside the mouth are often more comfortable than they expected because the tissues provide natural cushioning.
For most people, the biggest adjustment is not the injection itself but the temporary numb feeling afterward. In many cases, this sensation wears off within about an hour after treatment.
Every patient is different, and we'll tailor your care to help you feel as comfortable as possible. While we understand concerns about injections, properly numbing the area before treatment allows us to perform your procedure safely and comfortably.
You’re never alone in caring for your dental health. At Angelina Anisimova, DDS Family Dentistry, our team is here to support and meet you where you are in your dental journey. Call (636) 434-1244 or email [email protected] to connect with us today.