Why Am I So Nervous About Going to the Dentist? 

Does the thought of a dental visit make you instantly nervous? If so, you’re not alone. For 50-80% of people, the mere thought of visiting the dentist can evoke feelings of anxiety and nervousness. Whether it's the anticipation of potential discomfort or the fear of dental procedures themselves, dental anxiety is common, and for some people, the fear is strong enough to put off necessary dental care.

If you find yourself feeling nervous about going to the dentist, don’t let it stop you from receiving the dental care you need. Dr. Lovely Manlapaz Teodoro and our team here at The Dental Center of Hercules understand these concerns and offer a range of sedation options to ensure a comfortable and stress-free experience for every patient.

In the meantime, let’s take a look at some of the reasons why you’re nervous and what we can do to help.

Why are you so nervous about going to the dentist?

Being able to pinpoint the source of your anxiety can help you find the right strategies to ease your feelings of nervousness. 

Common sources of dental anxiety include: 

• Previous negative experiences (even if they are decade- old memories)
• Fear of pain from procedures 
• A sense of loss of control
• Sights and sounds commonly associated with dental offices, including drills 
• Underlying anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, or panic disorder 

Knowing what makes you nervous can help you find the solutions that work. For example, if an untreated generalized anxiety disorder is making it hard for you to get the dental or medical care you need, you may benefit from receiving mental health care to help address those conditions. 

On the other hand, if sensory issues can make trips to the dentist unbearable, explore strategies to cope. You may benefit from distraction methods (like listening to an audiobook), noise-canceling headphones, or deep breathing exercises. 

Fear of the unknown? This is a common source of fear, but thankfully, it’s one that’s easily addressed. If you’re nervous because you don’t know what to expect, let us know! We’re more than happy to explain the specifics of each procedure or treatment. Sometimes, that’s all it takes to feel at ease! 

Alternatively, if you don’t want to know the specifics, let us know too. We recognize that some individuals would prefer not to know. 

Sedation options can help ease dental anxiety 

To address the apprehension and nervousness associated with dental visits, our team here at The Dental Center of Hercules offers a range of sedation options tailored to suit your needs.

These sedation methods help create a relaxed and comfortable environment, allowing individuals to receive the necessary dental care without undue stress.

Laughing gas 

Inhaling nitrous oxide, commonly known as "laughing gas”, is a minimal form of sedation. Nitrous oxide helps you relax and promotes a sense of calmness. One of the significant advantages of this sedation option is that it wears off quickly, allowing you to resume your regular activities shortly after the procedure.

Additionally, you don’t need a friend or family member to drive you home afterward, making this a convenient option.

Electronic anesthesia

An alternative form of mild sedation available at The Dental Center of Hercules is electronic anesthesia. This technique utilizes electronic impulses to help patients relax during dental treatments. By providing a soothing sensation, electronic anesthesia aids in reducing anxiety and discomfort.

Conscious sedation

Conscious sedation is a moderate level of sedation that induces drowsiness. It’s typically administered in pill form, allowing patients to feel relaxed and at ease throughout the dental procedure. Despite feeling drowsy, individuals can still communicate with the dental team and respond to instructions.

IV deep sedation

In cases where patients require a higher level of sedation, The Dental Center of Hercules offers IV deep sedation. Administered intravenously, this form of sedation works quickly, inducing a deep state of relaxation. Most patients fall asleep under IV deep sedation, but they can be easily awakened if necessary.

Total sedation

If you have an intense fear or phobia of dentistry, total sedation, also known as general anesthesia, may be the preferred solution. With total sedation, you are completely unconscious and cannot be easily awakened. This option is typically reserved for complex or lengthy procedures, ensuring patients remain comfortable and unaware throughout the treatment.

Don’t let dental anxiety stop you from getting dental care

Don't let dental anxiety hold you back from achieving optimal oral health — schedule an appointment with Dr. Teodoro and discover the transformative power of a relaxing dental experience.

Give our Hercules, California, office a call at 510-254-3328. You can also request an appointment online through our online booking form.