If you experience dental anxiety, know that you are not alone. Many people will have some form of dental anxiety at some point in their life. At James Martin, DMD, your comfort is our top priority, and Dr. Martin’s pursuit of over 2000 hours of additional training helps us to constantly update our techniques and technology to tackle anything our patients need. We are constantly updating our techniques and technology to tackle anything our patients need.
We offer a tranquil and stress-free environment so you can get the treatment you need and improve your overall health without anxiety. Contact our dental team today to let us know how we can help you feel comfortable during your visit.
What Causes Dental Anxiety?
Dental anxiety sometimes has a cause, but sometimes it doesn’t. Here are some of the common causes of dental anxiety:
- Fear of Pain
- Previous Negative Experiences
- Phobias of Needles
- Loss of Control
- Embarrassment
- Sensory Sensitivity
Our office offers judgment-free dentistry to alleviate many of the causes of dental anxiety. We are here to support your oral health and boost your confidence. Our team will not dismiss your concerns or judge you for struggling with your oral health habits.
The Risks of Delaying a Dental Visit
We understand that dental anxiety can make scheduling a visit much harder. Delaying a dental visit doesn’t seem like a big deal, especially when it is just for a few weeks. But often those few weeks turn into months or even years.

However, delaying dental care can:
- Increase the Cost of Dental Care
- Perpetuate Dental Anxiety
- Allow Oral Health to Worsen
- Worsen Pain in Mouth or Jaw
- Cause Permanent Damage to Your Smile
At James Martin, DMD, we understand the risks of delaying oral health care, which is why we take every step we can to lessen your dental anxiety. We have multiple ways for you to contact us for an appointment, and we are prepared for patients who haven’t seen the dentist in a long time. In fact, we are excited that you are coming to visit us after a break from dental visits!
Our Approach to Your Comfort
We want you to let us know what triggers your anxiety so that we can make changes to help you feel calm. Some of the ways we tackle dental anxiety are:
Gag Reflex Relief
Having a sensitive gag reflex may make you self-conscious and contribute to your dental anxiety. We utilize the latest technology and techniques that minimize triggers that lead to a gag reflex. Not only are we conscious of this but we are actively reducing the risk so you can receive treatment without worry, ensuring an anxiety-free experience.
Numbing Techniques for Patient Comfort
If you have dental anxiety because you are worried about feeling pain, we offer advanced numbing techniques to ensure patient comfort. With sedation, anesthesia, and numbing options, you will receive efficient and precise results that minimize discomfort and provide a stress-free experience.
Complimentary Dental Sedation
We offer many different options for dental sedation, some of which are complimentary. Each kind of sedation dentistry has its own perks. We can personalize your sedation options for your level of dental anxiety. Learn more about each kind of dental sedation:
- Nitrous Oxide | This is also known as laughing gas. It is breathed in through a mask that is placed on your nose. The relaxation is almost immediate but will dissipate quickly after you remove the mask, allowing you to drive home and talk with doctors clearly.
- Oral Sedation | You will take this prescribed medication around an hour before you visit with us. This has a more intense calming effect than nitrous oxide, but you can still talk to the dentists, you just can’t drive home.
- Full IV Anesthesia | This is administered using an IV, and puts you into a deep sleep. You won’t remember anything that happened during the procedure if you use full anesthesia. We invite a nurse anesthesiologist to administer the anesthesia.
We also use local numbing for many of our procedures. You can use local numbing and dental sedation together in many circumstances.
Helping You Know What to Expect
One way to combat dental anxiety is by helping our patients know what to expect every step of the way so that they feel comfortable and do not have to worry about the unknown. This transparency and knowledge sharing helps alleviate anxiety by allowing you to plan your appointments with confidence.
Dr. Martin and his team will explain what to expect during consultations and throughout the procedure. Dr. Martin is known for his comfortable bedside manner and compassionate approach to dentistry.
If there is something that we do not currently offer but has helped you in the past, please let us know so that you can feel comfortable during your appointment! Our dental team is dedicated and actively listens to your anxieties and caters our approach to your unique needs.
A Thorough Consultation
One way we manage dental anxiety is to invite new patients in for a very thorough consultation. This new patient consultation is two hours long and involves a thorough exam and complimentary X-rays. We will assess every aspect of your oral health before making recommendations based on what Dr. Martin sees. This consultation will help you get to know our team and our office.
If the consultation is before a procedure and you are trying to learn more about the procedure we will explain what the procedure will look like, and our options for sedation dentistry and comfort.
Going to the dentist before was always a traumatic experience for Kim. Coming to Dr Martin has removed all the stress of dental visits.
How Our Dental Technology Can Ease Anxiety and Improve Your Visit
Advancements in dental technology have transformed the patient experience, making visits more comfortable, efficient, and less intimidating. For those with dental anxiety, modern tools and techniques can significantly reduce the stress associated with traditional dental care.
Innovations such as digital imaging and 3D scans eliminate the need for uncomfortable, outdated methods like messy impressions, offering a quicker and more precise way to assess your oral health. Laser dentistry is another breakthrough that minimizes the need for drills, reducing noise and vibration that often trigger anxiety. These technologies not only make procedures smoother but also help patients feel more in control and at ease.
Beyond improving the physical experience, dental technology also enhances communication and understanding. Tools like intraoral cameras allow dentists to show patients detailed images of their teeth and gums, explaining treatments step by step. This transparency helps alleviate fear of the unknown, empowering patients to make informed decisions about their care.
At Dr. Martin’s office, we use advanced technology to ensure every visit is as comfortable and stress-free as possible, helping you maintain or restore your oral health and confidence.

Get to Know Our Team
Dr. Martin believes that one way to manage dental anxiety is knowing your team of dentists. Dr. Martin will take time to get to know you personally, in and outside of the dental chair. He will listen to your preferences for treatments, but also be invested in your life. Feeling like you are visiting someone you know can help you relax during your appointment.
Our team is friendly and welcoming and will listen to you about any anxieties or concerns you may have. We will try to address them as much as possible. If you have a hygienist or nurse that you particularly get along with, you can ask to schedule with that nurse and we will do what we can.
You can learn more about our team before your visit as well.
Managing Dental Anxiety Before Your Appointment
Our office also suggests some effective strategies to help you feel calmer and more prepared before your dental visit. Taking proactive steps to manage your anxiety can ensure a more relaxed and positive experience when you arrive at the dentist’s office.
- Practice Relaxation Techniques | Deep breathing exercises or mindfulness meditation can help reduce stress and create a sense of calm. Spend a few minutes focusing on slow, steady breaths to ease your nerves before heading to your appointment.
- Distract Yourself | Engage in an activity you enjoy before your visit, such as reading a book, listening to music, or watching a favorite show. This can help redirect your focus away from anxiety.
- Bring a Support Person | Consider bringing a trusted friend or family member to your appointment for reassurance and company in the waiting room.
- Plan Ahead | Arrive early to your appointment to give yourself time to adjust to the environment. Avoid rushing, as it can increase feelings of stress.
By using these tips, you can take control of your dental anxiety and approach your appointment with greater confidence and ease.
Myths Surrounding Dentistry
One way to manage dental anxiety is to understand some misconceptions about dentistry! Here are some that dentists hear often, and the actual truth behind them:
Dentists Are Scary
Dr. Martin is very friendly, and he and his team will go out of their way to make you feel comfortable.
Dentistry is Painful
With modern technology and sedation, dentistry has become much more comfortable and is often painless.
Dentists Don’t Understand Dental Anxiety
Many dentists, especially dentists with Kois training like Dr. Martin, have been trained on ways to handle dental anxiety.
You Can Only Use IV Sedation for Your Wisdom Teeth
Many offices like Dr. Martin’s use anesthesia for many treatments, and it may be able to be used upon request.
Laughing Gas Makes You Giggle
Laughing gas doesn’t make very many people laugh—that is most common among children. Instead, it alleviates stress and anxiety, helping you relax.
Overcome Dental Anxiety Today!
Do not let your oral health suffer when our dental office has options available to help your dental anxiety. Call our dental team today to schedule an anxiety-free appointment!
About Dr. Martin
Dr. James Martin received his doctorate in dentistry from Boston University in 2011 and then completed a one-year residency at Lutheran Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York. He continues to travel all around the world to attend at least 200 hours a year of continuing education from the leaders in the field. Dr. Martin is also a Kois-trained dentist in order to provide top aesthetic and long-term oral health care. Dr. Martin blends innovation with personalized attention for a healthier, more radiant smile.
