Visiting the dentist when you feel anxious

Last reviewed: 2 November 2026

Many people feel nervous about going to the dentist. This guide explains why dental anxiety happens, practical ways to cope and the options a practice may offer. It is general information only. If anxiety is stopping you from getting care, talk to a dental practitioner or your doctor.

Dental anxiety is common

The Better Health Channel says dental anxiety is common and can affect people of any age. Needles, drills or the dental setting in general can trigger it. When the fear is severe and leads to avoiding the dentist, it may be described as dental phobia.

Common causes listed by the Better Health Channel include a past traumatic dental or healthcare experience, other trauma, generalised anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder, fear of losing control, and feeling that the mouth is a personal space.

Why it is worth getting support

The Better Health Channel says avoiding the dentist can allow dental disease to get worse, which can lead to a greater need for emergency care or more complex treatment. Regular check-ups can help find problems early, when simpler treatment may be possible. See what happens at a dental check-up.

Tell the practice

Healthdirect and the Better Health Channel both say to let your dental practitioner and their staff know if you feel nervous. Healthdirect says they can take extra care to minimise pain or discomfort and help make the visit as easy as possible. The Better Health Channel says talking about your triggers can help the dentist work with you on a plan that suits you.

You might mention your concerns when you book. You can ask:

• Can I have a longer first appointment just to talk, without treatment?
• Can you explain each step before you do it?
• Can we agree on a signal for me to ask for a break?
• Can I bring a support person, or use headphones?
• What options do you offer if I need extra help to relax?

Coping techniques

The Better Health Channel lists techniques that some people find helpful, including:

• deep breathing or meditation
• distraction, such as listening to music
• guided imagery or progressive muscle relaxation
• agreeing on a stop signal with your dentist, such as raising a hand
• bringing your own weighted blanket

The Better Health Channel says referral to a psychologist can help too, including short, targeted therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy.

Sedation and anaesthetic options

For severe dental anxiety or phobia, the Better Health Channel describes medical options. These include:

• Relative analgesia (nitrous oxide, sometimes called happy gas). You breathe a mix of oxygen and nitrous oxide through a mask. You stay awake and it wears off quickly.
• Anxiety-relieving tablets. Sometimes prescribed by a dentist or doctor, to be taken before the appointment. Only take these after discussing them with your dentist or doctor.
• Conscious (IV) sedation. Medicine given through a drip by a dentist with advanced training in sedation or by an anaesthetist. You are relaxed and may drift into a light sleep, but can respond.
• General anaesthetic. Treatment in a hospital while you are fully asleep, with an anaesthetist.

The Better Health Channel says not all dentists offer treatment under sedation, and some medical conditions may affect which options suit you. It also notes that a general anaesthetic does not help you learn coping strategies, and that it works best alongside other strategies. Ask about any extra costs and any instructions to follow before and after.

Other help

The Better Health Channel lists a specialist in special needs dentistry as one source of help for people with severe anxiety. Your dentist can advise whether a referral may help. If you also have access or support needs, see finding accessible dental care.

General information, not medical or dental advice. Speak to a registered dental practitioner about your situation.