If just hearing the word “dentist” makes your palms sweat, you’re not alone. Dental anxiety is incredibly common—especially among adults and children who’ve had negative past experiences or fear pain, needles, or the unknown. At Bassett Creek Dental in Golden Valley, MN, we completely understand—and we’re here to help you feel calm, comfortable, and cared for every step of the way.
Whether it’s been years since your last cleaning or you’re just nervous about an upcoming procedure, we want you to know: you’re in good hands.
What Is Dental Anxiety?
Dental anxiety refers to fear, stress, or unease about visiting the dentist. For some, it’s mild butterflies before a routine cleaning. For others, it can be so intense that it prevents them from getting necessary care altogether. Left untreated, dental anxiety can lead to more serious issues like gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss.
You’re Not Alone When it Comes to Feeling Anxious
Studies show that an estimated 36% of the population experiences some form of dental anxiety, and nearly 12% experience extreme dental fear. It’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Our team works with patients every day who feel exactly the same—and we’re trained to help.
How Bassett Creek Dental Helps You Feel at Ease
1. Compassionate, No-Judgment Care
From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll be welcomed into a friendly, stress-free environment. We listen carefully to your concerns and never shame or rush you. Whether it’s been six months or six years since your last dental visit—we’re just glad you’re here.
2. Customized Comfort Options
We offer several comfort amenities and anxiety-reducing options, including:
Noise-canceling headphones
Warm blankets
Stress balls or fidget tools
Numbing gel before local anesthetic
Calming explanations and step-by-step walkthroughs
If you experience high levels of anxiety, we can also discuss options like nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or conscious sedation to help you relax during treatment.
3. A Gentle, Patient-Centered Approach
We prioritize your comfort in every treatment we offer. Our dentists and hygienists take extra care to use gentle techniques, check in regularly, and give you breaks if needed. You’re always in control.
4. Modern Technology = Faster, Smoother Care
Our Golden Valley dental office uses advanced technology that makes your visit more efficient and comfortable, including digital X-rays, same-day crowns, and intraoral cameras that allow us to show you what we see in real-time.
5. Kid-Friendly Visits
We love working with children and know that early positive experiences at the dentist help prevent dental anxiety later in life. That’s why we offer “happy visits” to help little ones get used to the sights and sounds of the dental office in a fun, non-scary way.
Tips for Managing Dental Anxiety Before Your Visit
While we’ll do everything we can to help during your visit, here are a few tips to prepare before you arrive:
Let us know ahead of time if you’re nervous—so we can prepare accordingly.
Bring a trusted friend or family member if it helps to have support.
Use calming techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or listening to soothing music on the way.
Schedule morning appointments to reduce the time you have to worry about your visit.
Write down questions or concerns in advance to feel more in control.
You Deserve Comfortable Dental Care
At Bassett Creek Dental, we believe that every patient deserves to feel safe, relaxed, and confident during their dental visits. We’re proud to be a trusted dental home for patients in Golden Valley, St. Louis Park, Robbinsdale, Plymouth, and surrounding Minnesota communities.
Let us show you how positive and empowering dental care can be—even if you’ve had difficult experiences in the past.
Schedule a Gentle Dental Visit Today
Ready to experience dental care that puts your comfort first?
Call us at 763.546.1301 or schedule an appointment online today.
FAQ: Easing Dental Anxiety
Is dental anxiety common?
Yes! Millions of Americans experience dental anxiety. You are not alone, and many dentists—like our team at Bassett Creek Dental—specialize in treating nervous patients with care and compassion.
Can I be sedated during a dental procedure?
Yes. We offer options like nitrous oxide to help ease anxiety during treatment. Let us know how you’re feeling, and we’ll talk through the best option for your needs.
What if I’m embarrassed about how long it’s been since my last visit?
We understand—and we never judge. Our goal is to help you move forward with a healthy smile, no matter your past dental history.
How can I help my child with dental anxiety?
Start with positive talk, read books about visiting the dentist, and schedule a happy visit. We specialize in kid-friendly care and love making your child feel safe and confident.
Can I bring someone with me to my dental appointment?
Yes! If having a friend or family member with you makes you feel more at ease, we welcome that. Just let us know in advance so we can accommodate accordingly.
How long does a typical dental appointment take?
Most routine cleanings and exams take 45–60 minutes. However, we always allow extra time for patients with anxiety, so you never feel rushed or pressured.
Does dental anxiety ever go away?
Yes, many patients find that their anxiety decreases over time with positive, gentle experiences. A supportive dental team, combined with regular visits, can help rebuild trust and reduce fear.
Can dental anxiety cause physical symptoms?
Absolutely. People with dental anxiety may experience sweating, increased heart rate, nausea, or even panic attacks. That’s why we provide a calming environment and various comfort options to help you feel safe and relaxed.
Is sedation safe for kids with dental anxiety?
Yes, when administered by trained professionals, mild sedation options like nitrous oxide (laughing gas) are safe for children. We evaluate each child’s needs and comfort level before recommending any sedation.