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Coping with Dental Anxiety in Calgary

16 April 2025

Drills, needles, and discomfort — for many people, these are the first thoughts that come to mind when thinking about a trip to the dentist. At Onyx Dental Care, we know that dental anxiety is real, and it affects people of all ages. Whether it’s a fear of pain, past trauma, or simply feeling overwhelmed, our team is here to support you with compassionate, judgment-free dental care in Calgary.

Understanding Dental Anxiety

Dental anxiety ranges from mild uneasiness to full dental phobia, where individuals avoid care altogether. This fear can lead to a cycle: delaying treatment → increased oral health issues → needing more complex procedures → worsening fear.

If you or a loved one is experiencing dental anxiety in Calgary, know that you’re not alone — and we’re here to help.

Why Regular Visits Matter

Routine exams and cleanings are the best defense against dental problems and help reduce the likelihood of pain or complex treatments. Plus, your oral health impacts your whole body — issues like gum disease can worsen diabetes and heart conditions. Prevention is power.

Pain Management Options

Afraid of pain? We’ve got you covered. At Onyx Dental Care, we use:

Topical numbing gel to reduce injection discomfort

Local anesthesia for targeted numbness

Post-care recommendations such as OTC pain relief, cold compresses, and rinses

All of this ensures your experience is as comfortable as possible.

Tips to Manage Dental Anxiety

We recommend trying these before considering medication:

• Practice deep breathing or meditation before and during your appointment

• Bring headphones for music or calming podcasts

• Use a fidget tool or stress ball during treatment

• Ask to bring a support person to your appointment

Our team will walk you through the process, answer all your questions, and move at your pace.

Sedation Dentistry Options

For moderate to severe cases of anxiety, we also offer safe sedation options, including:

Oral sedatives like diazepam (prescribed ahead of time)

Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for relaxation during treatment

General anesthesia for complex cases or extreme phobia (by referral)

We’ll review your medical history to determine the safest and most effective plan.

Talk to Us — We’re Here for You

If you struggle with dental anxiety in Calgary, please don’t hesitate to talk with us. We’re here to listen, not judge. Whether you’re overdue for a cleaning or worried about a specific procedure, we’ll take it step-by-step — always with your comfort in mind.

At Onyx Dental Care, we don’t just care for teeth — we care for people.

📍 Located in Central Calgary, we’re proud to serve families across:

Forest Lawn • Ogden • Inglewood • Riverbend • Dover • Ramsay • and beyond

📅 Book your visit today and experience what gentle, anxiety-aware dental care can feel like.👉 onyxdentalcare.ca