Dental Anxiety vs. Dental Phobia: What’s the Difference And How Can Dr. Arthur Thurm Help?

For many people, a trip to the dentist brings a wave of nervousness. But for others, the fear runs deeper—so much so that they avoid dental care altogether. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans experience dental anxiety or dental phobia, and both can seriously impact your oral and overall health.

At Dr. Arthur Thurm’s practice, we understand how overwhelming dental fear can be—and we’re here to help. With decades of experience, a calming environment, and specialized options like sedation dentistry, we make it possible for even the most anxious patients to receive the care they need, comfortably and safely.

Understanding the Difference: Anxiety vs. Phobia

Dental anxiety is a common emotional response to dental visits. You may feel uneasy, tense, or have trouble sleeping the night before an appointment. You might even avoid making appointments until something hurts.

Dental phobia, on the other hand, is a more intense, often paralyzing fear. People with dental phobia may avoid the dentist for years, even if they’re experiencing severe pain or infection. This avoidance can lead to serious consequences like tooth loss, gum disease, and health issues that extend far beyond the mouth.

While anxiety and phobia are different in intensity, both deserve understanding, empathy, and personalized care—and that’s exactly what we provide.

Common Causes of Dental Fear

There’s no one-size-fits-all reason why people develop fear around dental visits. Some common causes include:

• A past traumatic dental experience
• Fear of pain or loss of control
• Sensitivity to sounds, smells, or sensations during procedures
• Embarrassment about dental neglect or appearance
• Feelings of claustrophobia or discomfort with having someone close to your face

Whatever the cause, Dr. Thurm and our team are committed to helping you feel safe and supported every step of the way.

How Dr. Arthur Thurm Makes Dental Visits Comfortable

At our practice, your comfort is our top priority. From the moment you walk through the door, we take every measure to reduce anxiety and build trust.

We offer:

1. Gentle, Patient-Centered Care

We take the time to listen to your concerns without judgment. You’ll never be rushed or pressured—we move at a pace that works for you.

2. Sedation Dentistry Options

For patients with moderate to severe anxiety or phobia, Dr. Thurm offers several levels of sedation:

• Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for mild relaxation
• Oral conscious sedation for deeper relaxation while staying awake
• IV sedation for a deeper level of calm during more involved procedures
• General anesthesia for patients who need to be fully asleep during treatment

As one of the few general dentists in the region licensed to provide general anesthesia in-office, Dr. Thurm is uniquely equipped to care for patients with complex needs or extreme dental fear—all without needing a hospital referral.

3. A Soothing Environment

Our office is designed to be calm, quiet, and welcoming. We use techniques to minimize discomfort, and we offer comfort items like blankets, headphones, and more to help you feel at ease.

You’re Not Alone—And You Don’t Have to Avoid the Dentist

If fear has kept you from the dentist for months or even years, know this: You are not alone, and you are not beyond help. Many of our patients once felt just like you—and today, they’re back on the path to a healthier, more confident smile thanks to personalized care and compassionate support.

At Dr. Arthur Thurm’s practice, we don’t just fix teeth—we help people reclaim their confidence and peace of mind. Whether you need a routine cleaning or haven’t seen a dentist in decades, we’re here to help you take that first step. Call our office at (856) 335-1775 or visit https://www.thurmdental.com/make-an-appointment/ to speak with our team today.