Do You Feel Nervous About Going to the Dentist? We Get It.
Maybe it’s a past experience, the sounds or tools dentists use, or you’re worried that it might hurt. There are all sorts of reasons people avoid check-ups, but your reason doesn’t need to keep you away. We understand and are committed to helping you feel at ease at every visit.
We care about how you feel. The first step is simply to talk to us. Let us know what’s worrying you and we can find ways to make your visit easier by discussing options to help you feel less nervous. Avoiding dental appointments can cause minor problems to become serious, so a check-up can give you peace of mind and help keep your teeth and gums in good shape. We’ll work together to make this possible.
"Like, sweat-dripping, full-body dread (which early exposure to The Little Shop of Horrors didn’t help). For years, I skilfully avoided appointments until I had to get braces as a teenager. It was scary at first, but over time I learned that it didn’t have to be traumatic - especially with the right people looking after you. Now? I actually like going. I’m proud of how I’ve looked after my teeth, and even more proud of how I faced something that once felt huge and unmanageable. If I can do it, so can you - truly."
“I’ll be honest, I used to be terrified of going to the dentist.” - Psychologist, Dr Ash King
Hear a Psychologist’s Tips on How to Stay Calm at the Dentist
It’s normal to be nervous. There are many different ways to help people feel more at ease at the dentist - whether it’s listening to your favourite music or podcast, or using simple breathing techniques to help you relax. Discover what works best for you with my helpful guide. It’s full of practical advice on what to expect and how to stay calm at the dentist.
The Signs and Support
What Are the Signs of Dental Anxiety?
- Lose sleep before an upcoming dental appointment
- Feel nauseous, anxious or upset
- Experience symptoms like sweating or a racing heart
- Avoid or delay dental visits altogether, even if you need treatment
If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. The good news is, there are ways to help you feel more comfortable and less stressed about going to the dentist.
How We Support Anxious Patients
- Gentle and personalised approach – We take time to understand your concerns and go at your pace.
- Clear communication – We explain everything before we begin, so there are no surprises.
- Comfort-focused care – We can talk through options to help you feel calm – from simple distractions like listening to music, to using happy gas or sedation, where appropriate.
- Care that continues – We stay in touch after your appointment to make sure all is well.
Specials
New Patient Special — Gap-Free or $199 Check-Up & Clean*
Take the first step towards giving your smile the care it deserves without worrying about cost. As a new patient, you’re entitled to a check-up, clean and polish for just $199, or No Gap if you’re with a health fund.*
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Why Oral Health is Worth It
Looking after your teeth and gums is about more than just avoiding cavities. It’s an act of self-care that supports your whole body and mind:
- Prevent bigger issues – Regular check-ups help catch things early, before they become painful or expensive.
- Feel better overall – Poor oral health has been linked to heart issues, immune problems, and more.
- Eat, speak, smile with confidence – A healthy mouth makes everyday life smoother.
- Live your life without pain – Don’t let toothaches or jaw pain slow you down.
Whether it’s been six months or six years since your last visit, you deserve care that feels safe and respectful. If you’re nervous about visiting the dentist, talk to us.
We’re ready to listen and support, every step of the way.
Book Online Call Us (02) 9588 5300
Supporting Someone Else Who’s Anxious
If your child, partner, or loved one is feeling nervous about an appointment, your calm presence can make a world of difference.
Here’s how you can help:
- Validate how they feel: “It’s okay to be scared. Lots of people feel this way”.
- Practice calming techniques together: Do the breathing exercise as a team.
- Create a reward or ritual: Something to look forward to after the appointment (ice cream, a park visit, a new book).
- Be Patient: Avoid “you’ll be fine” and instead ask what would help them feel more comfortable.
- Come along: If appropriate, be there for support - a familiar face can be incredibly
Ask the Dentist: FAQs for Nervous Patients
1. Are there dentists who are skilled in working with anxious patients?
Our dentists offer various techniques and options to help patients feel more comfortable and less anxious during treatment. These may include relaxation techniques and sedation options. Our dental team is experienced in dental anxiety, and we’re all ready to discuss ways to help you feel more at ease.
2. Do all dentists offer sedation options?
Talk to your dentist about sedation options. They can discuss using happy gas (nitrous oxide) and can advise on whether you may be suitable for other options such as twilight sedation, if available.
3. How do I take the first step as an anxious patient?
Talk to us. We understand your nervousness or fears and are ready to listen and advise you on a way forward – which is usually having a check-up. Every member of our team is committed to helping you feel calm and comfortable so that you can get the treatment you need.
Sedation Options for Dental Anxiety
A range of options involving different degrees of sedation are available to help manage dental anxiety - the most popular being what’s often referred to as ‘happy gas’. Inhaling the gas through a mask helps you feel calm yet alert and the effects wear off quickly.
Nitrox Oxide Sedation - Often considered the mildest form of sedation, nitrous oxide (sometimes called laughing gas or happy gas) is delivered through a small nose mask as an inhaled analgesic. It is a sweet-smelling gas that is blended with oxygen, and sedation levels can be controlled throughout the procedure.
Oral Sedation - For potentially longer-lasting and possible deeper sedation, your dentist may prescribe prescription medication prior to your procedure. It usually takes about an hour for the medication to take effect. One of our clinical staff will look after you throughout the process.
Conscious (Twilight) Sedation - a sedation medication that is given by an anaesthetist via IV. You feel deeply relaxed and may not remember the procedure.
Our dentists are happy to have a conversation about using gas during your check-up or dental procedure, and whether this or a different sedation option is suitable for you.
We Care About Your Expenses
The cost of a dental visit is often less than you think, but we understand why people may put one off due to cost concerns. Some dental treatments can be costly, however a small problem that’s ignored tends to grow into a bigger one that’s likely to cost more in the long run. We’ve got different ways to help, with our New Patient Offer* and our flexible payment plans.
We accept all major health insurance providers – and with our HICAPS facilities you can claim your rebate on the same day as your treatment.
Our Team
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Dr Evet Ishak BDS, Sydney University HONS
BDS Bachelor of Dental Surgery, Sydney University HONS
Dr Evet Ishak is the owner and principal general dentist of St Mark Dental Group.
Dr Ishak graduated with a Bachelor of Dentistry with Honours from the University of Sydney in 2001. Prior to this, she has also completed a Bachelor of Dentistry at Cairo University in 1990.
She has worked in private practice for over 20 years. Her humble and genuine caring nature, and personality allow patients to relax and enjoy their time spent in the chair.
Dr.Ishak ...
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