Dental Phobia

Dr. Jon Isaacson and Dr. Kelly O'Hara from Lincoln Familiy Dentistry in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Dr. Kelly O’Hara has a message for patients who are scared or fearful of dental work:

If you’re afraid of the dentist, you’re not alone—millions of people suffer from dental phobia and say they dread going to the dentist because they fear the discomfort associated with dental work. We recognize this and want to change your opinion of the dentist. We invite you to visit us and promise you’ll feel right at home with our caring dentists in Lincoln, Nebraska who always opt for the least invasive solution.

Previous Negative Experiences or Unsympathetic Dentists

Many of our patients say they have endured an uncomfortable procedure at a different dentist, or they are afraid of needles. Sometimes a bad experience involves a dentist who did not take the time to make the patient feel comfortable or fully explain the procedure. We ask questions to understand your fears and concerns before any procedure to help you relax. You’ll always feel better after a tooth or gum issue is resolved. We don’t rush or push our patients. We know it’s your smile, your health, and your choice.

Embarrassment

Some patients who have neglected their oral health and teeth for years say they’re too embarrassed and fear what the dentist might say because they’ve been ridiculed or belittled in the past. Our team understands that time slips by—all of a sudden it’s been years since your last dental appointment. We are very sensitive to patients’ feelings, and are so glad to see those patients who’ve missed one, two, or ten cleanings because they’ve now chosen to improve their dental health. We care too much about your health to let you go another day without the oral health care you deserve.

Fear of Dental Procedures

Many of our patients say they fear dental instruments because they can trigger their gag reflex, making it difficult to breathe and causing anxiety. I take my time with each patient, talking through this fear and use techniques that keep my patients comfortable. I also understand feeling anxious or even a bit scared of some of the procedures, but a regular checkup can stop many gum and tooth problems before they start, saving you from developing a very uncomfortable abscess, or cavity and an expensive bill. Last, I will always give you several options to choose from if you need a procedure.

We Care About Your Concerns

I want to hear about your past experiences and what I can do to make them better, thus easing your dental anxiety. I enjoy learning about all of my patients, and I can promise I have heard your concern from one or 100 other people. I’m sympathetic to these fears and value your decision to improve your dental health, regardless of how damaged your teeth or gums might currently be. I have seen it and heard it all. I care about my patients and want to give you a healthy smile and see you for regular dental cleanings and checkups.

Breathe a Sigh of Relief and Relax

Relaxation is vital to a positive dental experience. We play relaxing music, show movies, offer a variety of television programs, and even burn scented candles to mask any clinical smells. In addition, we also have a variety of sedation dentistry options to make sure you’re comfortable. There is dental phobia help. We want to make sure you get the dental care you deserve!

Advanced Techniques for Injections

First, I will apply a numbing gel to your gums before any injection to make sure you don’t feel anything. I give injections slowly, reducing pressure significantly. Finally, I enjoy talking to you to distract you from the injection. This three-step process works like a charm.

My team and I go out of our way to ensure you feel at home. We take the time to understand all of your concerns because we genuinely care. Let us help improve your health with most advanced dental techniques in a soothing, relaxing environment. We are the gentle dentists in Lincoln, NE.

I look forward to meeting you soon!

Wishing you Health and Happiness,
Dr. Kelly O’Hara