(856) 335-1775

Thurm Dental Group
925 Haddon Avenue, Collingswood, NJ 08108

Overcome Dental Phobias, Fears and Anxiety

Dr. Arthur Thurm has 43 years of experience helping people overcome their dental phobias and anxiety in New Jersey, Delaware, and Philadelphia. Fear of the dentist is very common. In fact, half of American adults say they have at least some anxiety about going to the dentist, and about 10 percent say they are so fearful, they put off needed dental work.

There are several reasons why people say they hate going to the dentist. These include:

  • Fear of pain: Some people say they refuse to go the dentist because they are afraid it will hurt.
  • Embarrassment: Some people hate how their teeth look and don’t want anyone to see them.
  • Lack of personal space: During the exam and treatment, the dentist is physically very close to the patient’s face. Some people simply hate having anyone so close to them.
  • Feeling helpless: Some people feel like they are giving up control when they lean back in the dental chair.
  • Negative experience in the past: A memory of a bad experience at the dentist can make a person less likely to go back.
  • Hate the sounds or smells: While dental technology has improved greatly over the years, some people still hate the sound of the drill or the aromas associated with dental offices.
  • Afraid of being lectured: Some people say they don’t want to go to the dentist because they’re afraid of being lectured about not brushing or flossing their teeth properly.

Unfortunately, delaying dental care can have negative consequences. Tooth decay can lead to painful toothaches and even tooth loss if it’s not treated. Gum disease, which is also called periodontal disease, is a serious infection that can also lead to tooth loss. Plus, it’s been linked to other serious illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, and Diabetes.

How Sedation in Dentistry Alleviates Anxiety

Our team at Thurm Dental has several methods to help patients overcome their dental anxiety. Conscious sedation methods including laughing gas, oral sedation (prescription pills), and IV sedation can help the patient feel relaxed and comfortable. The patients remain awake and conscious during their treatment, and can respond to the dentist. READ MORE »

Dr. Thurm is also a certified dental anesthesiologist. He and his team can administer general anesthesia to put a patient to sleep. The patient feels no pain or anxiety, and has no memory of the dental procedures that were performed. The patients simply awake when the procedures are completed. READ MORE »

Tips for Dealing with Dental Anxiety

The best way to deal with dental anxiety is to talk to your dentist about it and create a strategy that works for you. If you are going to be awake and aware during your dental visit, here are some ideas that could help you relax:

  • Establish a signal for breaks: Let the dentist know that if you raise your hand, it means you need him/her to stop for a minute.
  • Listen to music: Bring your headphones, and listen to your favorite playlist on your phone instead of the sounds of the dental office.
  • Bring a friend: Many people feel better when they have someone they trust either holding their hand or sitting nearby.
  • Wear sunglasses: Dentists typically provide protective eyewear, but it may be more comfortable to wear your own sunglasses.
  • Hold something: Just as kids often hold a favorite stuffed animal when they’re nervous, it can help adults to hold a stress relief ball or a worry stone.
  • Use visualization techniques: Imagining you’re on a beach watching the waves or walking through a peaceful woods can also help you relax.
  • Silently repeat a helpful phrase: Telling yourself “I am okay” or “I am safe” can help keep you calm.

Whether you have a mild case of dental anxiety or a severe panic attack when you think of the dentist, Thurm Dental can help. Call our team today at (856) 335-1775 to schedule an appointment. Together, we can determine the best method to help you relax so you can receive the dental care you need to have a beautiful, healthy smile.



Our patients leave smiling

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Outstanding experience! I have avoided the dentist for 35 years due to fear. I honestly thought having my teeth taken care of was completely out of the question until I heard Dr. Thurm’s practice advertised on the radio. From the moment I walked in, everyone on his staff was incredibly friendly and were acutely aware of your trepidation. While in the room waiting to see the Dr. I felt myself…

Anonymous

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Dr Thurm and his team are not only incredibly talented , they are compassionate , and provide non judgmental care no matter the extent of your dental needs . I’ve had extractions , fillings , and bridgework all pain and anxiety free . That’s why again and again I choose Thurm Dental .

Anonymous

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As usual everything was perfect. Everyone is always friendly and helpful.

Patricia T.

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I have had an abnormal fear of the dentist all my life which led to sever gum disease and I was terrified of what I needed to have done. Dr. Thurm took his time to explain everything that had to be done and he treated me with such kindness and care it was wonderful. I had extractions done, scaling and filings under anesthesia so I did not have to hear or feel what he was doing. I woke up and Dr. T…

Donna D.

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Thurm Dental Group is wonderful. My appointments are always on time. The care is excellent, thorough, professional, and gentle. Dr Thurm and his staff put the patient first in all interactions — you can see it in our healthy smiles!

Eileen C.

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Tooth pulled, crowns removed, temporary bridge placed-no pain at all!

Linda M.

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It is always a positive experience at your office. Everyone is great, very professional. Dr. Thurm is the best based on all of my experiences over many years.

Albert F.

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I’ve been going to Thurm dental for 25+ years – always professional, nice and of course good at what they do!

Anonymous

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Excellent dentist and staff. Seen on time. State of the art equipment and most importantly, correct and good treatment with a conservative approach. Dr. Thurm’s approach is to assess the situation, range of options, whether the treatment is urgent or can wait and proceed from there. Everybody in this facility is both professional and friendly. I wish all businesses were like this.

Anonymous

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Great visit, on time, friendly, through and complete, as always.

Howard S.

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I have an absolutely devastating fear of dentists, and had it not been for excruciating tooth pain, I was content to not visit a dental office. My first visit, while in such pain, was probably the most gentle experience I’ve had with a dental office. The staff was definitely sympathetic to my fear, and instead of treating it dismissively or by treating me like a child, they truly made me fee…

Anna S.

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Did not have to wait.. Everything was on time . Employees very skilled..l

Frederick S.

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Dr. Thurm and staff are the most amazing people. Their support and expertise is above and beyond. I went in with a difficult problem and the reassurance and calmness of Dr. Thurm is just amazing. He makes a terrible procedure turn into an ordinary day. The kindness exhibited – not only from Dr. Thurm but his entire staff – is very much appreciated. I NEVER want him to retire. I know that i…

Suzanne W.

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Excellent service geared to myself and my child’s needs.

Ann M.

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Always a pleasure to visit. Top notch dental office. Very professional.

Thomas T.

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Excellent individuals. Caring and compassionate. They always put me at ease.

I. C.

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I had some concerns about a dental issue. I received friendly, painless treatment as well as good information as to how to deal with my dental issue. I feel as though my next check-up will be very much improved. It was a great appointment.

Anonymous

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Dr. Thurm was wonderful and so accommodating, I felt very safe with him

Donna D.

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As usual,my checkup and cleaning with Lisa and Dr. Thurm was excellent. Always pleasant and friendly, the staff makes you feel welcome.I would highly recommend this dental practice

Anonymous

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I was very stressed about my procedure, but Dr. Thurm and his whole staff put me at ease. I highly recommend Thurm Dental!!

Mary W.

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  • Monday
    7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Tuesday
    7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Wednesday
    7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Thursday
    7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

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New patients are welcome! To request an appointment use our online form or call:

(856) 335-1775

Our Location

Thurm Dental Group

925 Haddon Avenue, Collingswood, NJ 08108

(856) 335-1775