Scared of the Dentist? You're Not Alone — And You Don't Have to Stay Away
If you've been putting off a dental visit because of fear or anxiety, you're in very good company. Studies show that up to 1 in 3 Canadians experience some level of dental anxiety — and for many, that fear is strong enough to make them avoid the dentist for years at a time.
At Gentle Dental Burnaby, we see the real cost of dental anxiety every day: patients who come in with small problems that became big ones, people who haven't had a cleaning in five years, and first-time visitors who apologize before they even sit in the chair.
This guide is for you. No judgment. No pressure. Just honest information on what dental anxiety looks like, why it happens, and how to get the care you need — even if the idea of the dentist makes you nervous.
What Is Dental Anxiety?
Dental anxiety is a feeling of unease, worry, or fear specifically related to dental visits or treatment. It exists on a spectrum:
Mild anxiety — you feel nervous before appointments but go anyway
Moderate anxiety — you delay appointments, feel dread for days beforehand, or feel physically unwell in the waiting room
Dental phobia — a more severe, persistent fear that causes you to avoid dental care entirely, even when you're in pain
All of these are real, valid experiences. And all of them are manageable with the right dental team.
Why Do People Fear the Dentist?
Dental anxiety rarely comes from nowhere. Common triggers include:
Past negative experiences A painful or frightening experience — especially in childhood — can leave a lasting impression. The sounds, smells, and sensations of a dental office become linked to that memory.
Fear of pain This is the most common fear. Many patients worry about injections, drilling, or discomfort during treatment. Modern dental techniques have significantly reduced pain, but the anticipation can feel very real.
Fear of loss of control Lying back in a dental chair, unable to speak or move freely, triggers discomfort for many people. Not knowing what's happening or what's coming next adds to this.
Embarrassment or shame Some patients feel embarrassed about the condition of their teeth — especially if they've avoided the dentist for a long time. They worry about being judged.
Sensory sensitivity The sounds (drills, suction), the smells, bright lights, or the physical sensation of instruments in the mouth can be overwhelming for some patients, including those with sensory sensitivities or past trauma.
How Dental Anxiety Affects Your Health
Avoiding the dentist because of fear is completely understandable — but the consequences are real.
When dental problems go untreated, small issues become expensive ones. A cavity that could have been filled with a simple 30-minute appointment becomes a root canal. Gum inflammation becomes gum disease. A loose filling that could have been replaced turns into a cracked tooth that needs a crown.
Beyond the physical effects, dental anxiety often creates a cycle: the longer you avoid the dentist, the more worried you become about what might be found — which makes you avoid it even more.
What We Do Differently at Gentle Dental Burnaby
"Gentle" isn't just our name — it's how we practice. Dr. Azimi and our team have built Gentle Dental Burnaby around the specific goal of making dental care accessible to patients who are nervous, anxious, or who have had bad experiences in the past.
We go at your pace You are always in control of your appointment. If you need a break, you get one. If you want to stop and ask questions, we stop. Nothing happens without your understanding and consent.
We explain everything before we do it Surprises are one of the biggest sources of anxiety in a dental chair. We describe what we're about to do, why, and what it will feel like — before we do it. No unexpected sensations.
We use a gentle touch From the way we administer local anaesthetic (slowly, to reduce the sting) to our approach to hygiene appointments, minimizing discomfort is built into every step of how we work.
No judgment — ever Whether you haven't been to the dentist in 2 years or 12 years, you will not be lectured, shamed, or made to feel guilty. Your oral health from this point forward is what matters to us.
We take the time Rushed appointments amplify anxiety. We build enough time into each appointment so that nothing feels hurried.
Sedation Options for Anxious Patients
For patients with moderate to severe anxiety, sedation dentistry offers a way to receive necessary care in a calm, relaxed state.
Oral sedation A prescription medication taken before your appointment that reduces anxiety significantly. You remain conscious and responsive but feel deeply relaxed. Most patients remember little of the appointment afterward.
At Gentle Dental Burnaby, Dr. Azimi can discuss oral sedation options during your consultation. Sedation is particularly useful for longer procedures or for patients who have found previous appointments difficult to get through.
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) A mild, fast-acting gas that produces a sense of calm and reduces the perception of time. It wears off quickly — most patients can drive home afterward. A good option for mild to moderate anxiety.
Local anaesthetic For patients who fear pain during treatment specifically: modern local anaesthetic is highly effective. You will feel pressure but not pain during most dental procedures. If you feel discomfort at any point, let us know immediately — we will stop.
Practical Tips for Managing Dental Anxiety
Even before your first appointment, there are things you can do:
Book a meet-and-greet appointment first Before committing to any treatment, book a simple consultation appointment at Gentle Dental Burnaby. No drilling, no procedures — just a chance to meet Dr. Azimi, see the clinic, and ask any questions you have. Most anxious patients find this one step makes all the difference.
Tell us you're nervous When you book, mention that dental anxiety is something you experience. This simple step allows us to prepare for your visit differently — scheduling extra time, briefing the team, and having a plan for your comfort.
Bring headphones Listening to music, a podcast, or an audiobook during your appointment is completely welcome. It reduces the impact of sounds that trigger anxiety for many patients.
Choose a low-stress appointment time Book your appointment at a time when you're least rushed — not right before a work meeting or at the end of a stressful day. Morning appointments work well for many anxious patients before the day's stress builds.
Agree on a signal Tell your dentist you want a signal — usually raising your hand — that means "stop immediately, I need a break." Knowing you have control over stopping at any moment reduces anxiety significantly.
Don't Let Fear Cost You Your Benefits
If dental anxiety has kept you from visiting the dentist this year, October and November are the most important months to book.
Most dental insurance plans expire December 31. Any unused benefits — cleanings, fillings, exams — disappear permanently at year-end. And if you're eligible for the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), your covered services are waiting.
Don't let fear be the reason you lose coverage you've already paid for.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Anxiety in Burnaby
Is it normal to be scared of the dentist?
Yes — extremely common. Research suggests 36% of Canadians experience dental anxiety, and about 12% have dental phobia severe enough to avoid care entirely. You are not unusual, and you are not weak. It's a recognized psychological response that responds well to patient, compassionate care.
What if I'm embarrassed about my teeth?
Our team does not judge the condition of your teeth. We have seen everything. The only thing that matters to us is helping you from this point forward — not commenting on what's happened before.
Can I get sedation at Gentle Dental Burnaby?
Yes. We offer oral sedation for anxious patients. Contact us to discuss whether sedation is appropriate for your planned treatment.
What if I have a panic attack at the dentist?
Tell your dentist immediately. We will stop, give you space, and only continue when you're ready. If you're prone to panic attacks, let us know when booking — we can schedule your appointment specifically to accommodate this.
I haven't been to the dentist in many years. Is it too late?
No. No matter how long it's been, the right time to come in is now. The longer you wait, the more treatment you'll eventually need — but starting today is always better than waiting longer.
How do I book an appointment at Gentle Dental Burnaby if I'm nervous?
Call us at (604) 434-3020 or book online at burnabygentledental.com. When you book, simply mention that dental anxiety is something you experience. Our team will take it from there.
Book Your Gentle Visit at Gentle Dental Burnaby
You deserve dental care that feels safe, calm, and respectful. That's what we've built at Gentle Dental Burnaby — and it's why our patients keep coming back, and keep sending their families.
Gentle Dental Burnaby 📍 111-4980 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC V5H 4K7 (near Metrotown) 📞 (604) 434-3020 🔗 Book online: burnabygentledental.com ⭐ 450+ Five-Star Google Reviews
We welcome nervous patients warmly. Your first step is just picking up the phone.
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