overcome dental anxiety
overcome dental anxiety

How To Overcome Your Dental Anxiety And Make Future Trips To The Dentist A Little Less Scary

Table of Contents

Discover Practical Tips For How You Can Make Your Next Dental Visit More Enjoyable For You And Your Kids

Do you or your child ever dread visiting the dentist?

We’ve all been there, right?

The dental chair can be a scary place for some: the bright shining light, a stranger’s hands in your mouth, all the metal tools…

It can be a daunting experience.

If you’ve ever felt afraid to go to the dentist, you’re not alone.

Lots of people, both adults, and children, have anxiety related to visiting the dentist.

Research shows…

  • As much as 8% of people avoid the dentist due to fear or anxiety.
  • Roughly 20% of people avoid the dentist unless it’s absolutely necessary to visit.

Dental anxiety is real, and visiting the dentist can make you feel vulnerable.

But it doesn’t have to be scary at all.

While uncomfortable at times, there’s nothing scary about seeing your trusted family dentist regularly.

In the long run, you will thank yourself for keeping up with regular visits.

Visiting your Leander dentist regularly helps you…

  • Reduce your risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
  • Keep plaque and tartar buildup at a minimum.
  • Make sure you have optimal oral health.
  • Keep your smile clean and thriving.

And much more…

Are you ready to face your fears and give your smile the dental care it deserves?

Luckily, there are ways for you to make your next dental visit a more enjoyable experience – whether for you or your children.

Keep reading to discover how you can make the dentist a little less scary starting now.

#1) Do your research: know what to expect when you sit in the dental chair

Ever heard the expression “knowledge is power?”

Well, it’s true.

The more you know, the less afraid you will feel when you sit down in the dental chair.

Here are some fun facts about visiting the dentist to put your mind at ease:

  • It won’t be as painful (if at all) as you think.
  • It usually only takes an hour of your time.
  • Visiting your dentist is a great way to keep teeth and gums healthy.

Did you know… your dentist uses advanced tools that target stubborn areas that your toothbrush can’t reach. Your dental visit will help remove plaque and tartar, two main cavity-causing culprits.

If you do your research and understand what you’re going into before you go to the dentist, you will help eliminate irrational fears.

Here’s what you can expect at your routine dental appointment:

  • You might experience a short wait in a waiting room.
  • Your dental hygienist will examine your teeth.
  • Provide you with professional, painless teeth cleaning.
  • A two-minute fluoride treatment. 
  • And, dental X-rays (depending on your teeth).

At the end of your visit, your dentist can even give you helpful tips to incorporate into your at-home dental health care routine.

The more you know before you go, the less stress you’ll feel when you’re at your dental appointment.

#2) Incentivize the visit: reward yourself for facing your dental anxiety

Are you someone who likes to be rewarded for overcoming life’s obstacles?

Who isn’t?

Why not reward yourself for facing your dental anxiety head-on? It’s an accomplishment, after all.

Make your next dental visit fun by rewarding yourself or your kids for making the trip to the dentist.

You can give your kids a small toy as a prize. You can reward yourself with a shopping trip.

Or maybe you treat everyone to ice cream (as long as you brush later on!)

#3) Phone a friend: bring someone to sit by your side while you visit your Leander dentist

There is nothing more comforting than having someone you trust beside you during a time of stress.

Sometimes all you need is a little moral support from a good friend or a close relative.

Next time you’re nervous about visiting the dentist, bring someone you trust with you. They’ll help diffuse any dental anxiety you might be feeling.

#4) Practice relaxation and breathing techniques: find a sense of calm while in the dental chair

It’s difficult to do much but sit there while you’re getting your teeth cleaned.

But don’t forget to breathe.

This sounds simple, but you’d be amazed at how powerful controlled breathing can be.

When you can’t control the situation in your mouth, you can certainly control your breath.

Practice breathing and other relaxation techniques to bring you a sense of calm while in the dental chair.

#5) Find a dentist you can trust: create a bond with your new Leander dentist

Instead of having a stranger in your mouth, build a bond with your dentist, so you feel more comfortable.

When you find a personable dentist who focuses on quality care, you will feel at ease during every dental appointment.

A good dentist will…

  • Let you know what you’ll feel while they work in your mouth.
  • Ask yourself how you are doing throughout the whole process.
  • Take breaks as needed for you to regain your composure. 

Did you know… your dental treatment is your choice! You have the right to stop or pause a procedure at any time, as long as it’s safe to do so.

Now that you know how to reduce your dental-related fears, isn’t it time to find a quality dentist in Leander?

Keep reading to discover the best dentist in Leander, Texas.

Find the Best Dentist In Leander, Texas

Apple Springs Family Dentistry, The Leading Dental Office In Leander, Texas

Congratulations! You’re ready to face your fears and visit the dentist once and for all.

Luckily, there’s one dental office in Leander that you will actually enjoy visiting.

Apple Springs Family Dentistry has a great staff of skilled dental professionals who always strive to make every patient feel safe and comfortable during their visit.

Apple Springs Family Dentistry can help you…

  • Feel at ease in the dental chair.
  • Remove plaque, tartar, and buildup. 
  • Prevent gum disease and tooth decay. 
  • Whiten teeth and remove teeth stains. 
  • Enhance your smile to its optimal state. 

And so much more…

Would YOU benefit from a visit to your trusted Leander dentist?

Great news: Apple Springs Family Dentistry is now accepting new patients for a limited time only!

It’s time to give your smile the attention it’s been missing out on.

Don’t wait any longer.

Set up your next dental appointment now.

Call 512-212-9711 to schedule your dental appointment with Apple Spring Family Dentistry of Leander right now.

Need more than a routine tooth cleaning?

Check out all that Apple Springs Family Dentistry has to offer…

Dental Services offered by Apple Springs Family Dentistry:

  • Routine teeth cleanings
  • Professional teeth whitening
  • Caps, crowns, bridges, and more.
  • Emergency Dentistry
  • Cosmetic dentistry
  • Pediatric Dentistry
  • Root canal therapy
  • Orthodontics
  • Wisdom Teeth Extraction

And much more… Schedule your next dental visit today!

APPLE SPRINGS FAMILY DENTISTRY
OFFICE:
3421 N Lakeline Blvd, Suite 230
Leander, Texas 78641

Phone: (512) 212-9711

Hours of Operation:
Mon: 8am – 5pm
Tue: 8am -5pm
Wed: 8am – 5pm
Thu: 8am – 5pm
Fri: 8am – 1pm
Sat – Sun: Closed

 

Excellent
Apple Springs Family Dentistry4.9
Based on 568 reviews
Janet S.
2 weeks ago
Very friendly staff, made me feel at ease,was non judgemental as it's been a long time since I've seen a dentist. I had doctor Tay,his assistant Andrea and Horden who did a cleaning. Front office staff very friendly. Karen had assisted me with the insurance stuff.I will be going back for my next check up!
Kathy F.
3 weeks ago
Best office ever - the staff is wonderful, as is Dr. Tay! They don’t try to upsell work to you that you don’t need. Wait time from arrival to being seen is always prompt.
Stephanie C.
1 month ago
Dr. Tay and his staff are very professional and kind. The care we receive is top notch, and the office is clean and welcoming!
Arif K.
2 months ago
Wonderful experience at this office! The doctors and the entire staff are great at what they do.
Bradlee S.
2 months ago
Literally amazing Dental office!! So professional, took his time to clean whole mouth and teeth feel the best they’ve ever felt, no joke! I’ve been to “holistic” dental offices that only want to charge you to breathe.
Matt T.
2 months ago
Kelsey the hygienist was wonderful and very caring.
Jessica G.
5 months ago
We love Apple Springs Dental!! Staff is always super friendly and efficient!! Dr Tay is fantastic and my teeth always feel so good after!! We have been clients since they opened and will be there as long as they are!! Highly recommend!!
Brent C.
8 months ago
Staff everyone is always fantastic and a pleasure to visit with. Awesome practice, I highly recommend!
Response from the owner:Thanks Brent for the 5-star review! We appreciate you and look forward to your next visit with us.
Eileen R.
9 months ago
I've been going to Dr. Tay for quite a few years now. His office is quick, thorough and professional. Dr. Tay never prescribes services that are not necessary ... which was my experience, unfortunately, when I went to a dental office that was a chain. It is important to feel like you trust your dentist, and I have always trusted Dr. Tay's experience, professionalism and ethics.
Response from the owner:Hi Eileen, thank you so much for your kind review. We appreciate you and we look forward to your next visit!
Grace P.
9 months ago
The front desk, assistants, hygienists (shout out Gordon), and Dr. Tay made my 2 year olds appointment as seamless as possible! Great staff and great care!!
Response from the owner:Thanks Grace for the 5-star review!
Pei Lien C.
10 months ago
Always amazing everyone is always professional and super nice. Best dental experience I have ever had. Dr. Tay is skillful dentist, by far is the best in...
Jin K.
11 months ago
Staff is awesome and Dr. Tay is a great dentist for the community. I highly recommend this practice.
Response from the owner:Thanks Jin for the kind words and recommendation! We appreciate you!
Kendall S.
12 months ago
Always a great experience! Dr. Tay and his team work hard to make sure every patient is comfortable and relaxed during all procedures. I would recommend this place to anyone!
Jon W.
12 months ago
Big fan of Apple Springs Family Dentistry, nothing but good things to say about Doctor Tay and his staff. Our whole family has been going there for the last 5 years and I would highly recommend them to anyone in the Leander area!
Barb H.
1 year ago
I love going to the dentist again thanks to these people!!
Jack F.
1 year ago
Very efficient and able front office. My hygienist Gordon was outstanding and gental. Dr. Tay owns his own practice and his entire staff reflects pride of ownership.
Jonathan K.
1 year ago
Dr. Tay and his team helped me get back to healthy teeth and gums. No anxiousness in that office!
Chad R.
1 year ago
Apple Springs is simply the best dental practice I have every used for my families dental care.
Kristin L.
1 year ago
I always have a great experience here. All of the hygienist have been exceptional and both Dr Tay and Dr Nguyen are excellent. Highly recommend!
Erica G.
1 year ago
Really fantastic office. The tech was great and did a very thorough job. The office staff was super friendly and efficient as well.
Kim M.
1 year ago
I hadn't been to the dentist in a while and was feeling pretty nervous about my appointment- but the experience was amazing from start to finish! My...
Jennifer M.
1 year ago
Had a great cleaning with Gordon. Super gentle and personable.
JD D.
1 year ago
Always a wonderful experience. I'm very anxious and feel so comfortable in this office. Everyone is super friendly, and Dr. Tay did an amazing job restoring my broken ttooth. Highly recommend!!!
Melissa H.
1 year ago
Always love coming in for a cleaning. Very nice welcoming staff and love Dr Tay. Very personal and great attention to detail!
Energy B.
1 year ago
I had a great experience while having my cleaning and my filling. I highly recommend apple springs.
Debbie F.
1 year ago
We greatly appreciate Dr Tay & staff to take care of our routine checks. We have been going to him since he opened even though we moved. It’s actually pleasurable to go to the dentist due to their lovely demeanor, caring service—they are amazing! Thank you! The Farmer family
Michael W.
1 year ago
Great experience! I was traveling through Austin and needing to get my teeth examined and cleaned. They were able to accommodate me within three days. The dental hygienist, Gordon, was absolutely amazing. He took all the x-rays, explained what he was looking at, and completed an extremely thorough cleaning. I had a clean bill of health so I cannot speak to more in-depth procedures. The staff at this office was fantastic. Highly recommended if you are in the Austin area.
Olga L.
1 year ago
Dr Tay and his team are incredibly caring and professional. My family have been going to this practice for years and every time we had a wonderful experience!
Glenn B.
1 year ago
This is an outstanding practice from the front desk, to the dental hygienist and especially Dr Tay. Great job by everyone!
Agata P.
1 year ago
What a pleasant experience! From the front staff to the consultation! I came in for a brief consultation for a potential dental procedure with Dr Tay. He was patient and explained everything in detail. He was extremely knowledgeable. Thank you!
Jody P.
1 year ago
Dr. Tay is the best dentist I’ve ever been to! He doesn’t do unnecessary things and is very kind, gentle and honest. His staff I wonderful and super friendly. Thanks, Apple Springs! Y’all are amazing!
Jeffrey B.
1 year ago
Quick and efficient but always provides top notch care. I highly recommend Apple Springs Family Dentistry to everyone.
Michael G.
2 years ago
I had a dental emergency and Dr. Tya's office got me and appointment quickly.
Louise B.
2 years ago
I have been going to Apple Springs for 3 years. It's always an excellent experience. The front staff are friendly and welcoming. Dr Tay and other dentists...
Victor T.
2 years ago
Cool, Nice Younger Brother Willing To Help Out A "Bro" In Need; Love Him Or Appreciate Him.
Lauren Bowden C.
2 years ago
Visited today as a new patient. Karen was great getting the initial appointment and follow up set up. Staff and Dr were all very friendly, professional and efficient.
Response from the owner:Hi Lauren, thank you so much for the kind review! We all enjoyed meeting you today and we look forward to your next visit.
Chris N.
2 years ago
Staff was joyful and made the visit fun and painless. Dr Tay was great. Don't normally look forward to going to the dentist, but can't wait to go back for...
Talon P.
2 years ago
My hygienist was the most gentle cleaning experience I've ever had. She took her time F was detail oriented. Dr. Tay is great.
Mark K.
2 years ago
Over the years I've written just a few reviews, because like most folks I'm usually pressed for time. However, I really need to speak up about Dr. Tay's...
Karen B.
2 years ago
So impressed with Apple Springs! Fantastic hygienist, Grace, did an excellent job and I felt the dentist did a thorough and professional exam. Happy I...
Salena C.
2 years ago
Absolutely love and trust Dr.Tay. I've been going to him for over 5 years and hope to never have to go anywhere else. Also, my husband who is afraid of...
Bryant P.
2 years ago
Everyone here is friendly and good at what they do! Nice, clean office with modern equipment and amenities.
Mark G.
2 years ago
Great family of oral hygiene practitioners. Very thorough, they make sure your comfort and oral health are always the highest priority.
Shelley H.
2 years ago
I absolutely love this dentist office. Everyone there is so friendly! They are very good at what they do and very interested in their patients!
lina S.
2 years ago
My husband came in for the first time last week. He really likes Dr. Tay and the team. He referred me to see him. Dr. Tay and everyone is so friendly; the...
Jason C.
3 years ago
I've been a faithful patient here at Apple Springs Family Dentistry for almost 3 years. They are always professional, kind, and the service is top notch....
Crystal A.
3 years ago
Always a great experience. They are friendly, efficient with their time & gentle with their exams. Highly recommend.
Sarah L.
3 years ago
So glad I found Apple Springs Family Dentistry a year ago! The most pleasant dental experience I've had - gentle cleanings, friendly staff, easy to make...
Jennifer G.
3 years ago
Dr. Tay and his staff are amazing. One of my biggest priorities is healthy teeth and gums. When I walk into this office, I have complete trust in Dr.Tay...
Pragya S.
3 years ago
The staff at Apple Springs Dentistry are not only professional but also incredibly friendly and attentive. They took the time to explain each step of the...
Terrie K.
3 years ago
I had a dental emergency and my former dentist's office that is now under new ownership did not return 3 calls over 2 days Dr Tays office got me in same...
Amy D.
3 years ago
Dr. Tay has taken care of my family for 3 years now. He and his staff are always welcoming, courteous, and helpful. I've had multiple old crowns that needed...
Phil A.
3 years ago
I really enjoy going here. It is a fun environment. I really like how they make you feel comfortable throughout the cleaning. I can't wait to go back.
Alex G.
3 years ago
I just came out of my teeth cleaning and dental exam appointment, and wow, it was excellent. Katie the tech, did an outstanding job, and was very gentle and...
Sally Z.
3 years ago
They attended me very quickly and thoroughly. The doc gave me a referral to an endodontist.
George S.
3 years ago
Great staff and very pleasant experience. Couldn't be happier. Going to the dentist isn't ever something I look forward to, but these folks are amazing.
marlo T.
3 years ago
Dr. Tay is wonderful. He's gentle and caring. He made my very nervous daughter so comfortable. We hit the jackpot with Dr. Tay!
Stephanie E.
3 years ago
We love this place for our Family. Everyone is friendly and professional from the front desk employees to the Dr. Couldn't recommend them enough.
Nicole C.
4 years ago
Very friendly Owner and family!
Queenie T.
4 years ago
Its so funny cause my older daughter loves to see Dr Tay. Not many kids like to see the dentist. Dr. Tay is amazing. He is a very gentle, sweet and honest...
Leena T.
4 years ago
Best dental experience EVER! The staff is so nice and professional. The doctor had a cancellation so he actually cleaned my teeth! It was the most thorough...
Bonnie H.
4 years ago
This is a dentist office that is my favorite so far as any dentist in Utah, Nevada, and Texas. Let me explain...... I broke one of my veneers off and a...
Erin J.
4 years ago
Dr Tay is one of the best dentists out there. He repaired my front tooth and it looks better than the other one now. His bedside manner is excellent. He's...
Elana M.
4 years ago
Fantastic customer service! Dr Tay and his team are so kind and welcoming. Everyone in his office is very patient and happy to answer any questions that we...
Christy E.
4 years ago
I'm not a fan of having to go to the dentist but the team at Apple Springs make the experience pleasant. I highly recommend them!
Veronica T.
4 years ago
Awesome service as usual, the whole staff really makes me feel like family. Thank you!
Susana G.
4 years ago
Love the place, the staff, the service. Very friendly and professional. Also my little girl feels comfortable and safe.
Ciril B.
4 years ago
Happy with the yearly check up and replacement of 3 crowns. Grreat staff. Would recommend
Edie O.
5 years ago
Thank you so much for giving me my smile back! Love all of the staff here I have anxiety from previous experience at dentist offices but they have restored...
Lizet G.
5 years ago
Friendly staff and professional service. Efficient in and out, always on schedule, My children and I love going to see Dr Tay and his team!
Terri G.
5 years ago
The entire staff is professional and very kind. I've had some dental challenges from years ago and I am so thankful for Dr. Tay and his very talented...
Jeff K.
5 years ago
I only went once so far. I'll be back. I have had a bad feeling after only one time at other dentists. With this place, so far so good.
Michelle B.
5 years ago
Went very well all things considered. Very clean facility with a polite and courteous staff.
Terri G.
5 years ago
What a great dental office. EVERYONE was so kind, professional and helpful. The office is very clean and I am thankful my daughter and I will be getting our...
Ben H.
5 years ago
Dr Tay and his staff run a clean, modern, an welcoming practice. The hygienist was friendly and efficient, genuinely concerned about my comfort and careful...
Mark W.
5 years ago
Super nice people! Very friendly and accommodating. A big step up from that last place I was at!
Beth C.
5 years ago
Excellent dentist and great customer service! My mother appreciated the gentle care from the dentist and the wonderful staff throughout the office.
Karen T.
5 years ago
Dr. Tay and his entire staff are amazing! I always feel welcomed and everyone is so friendly and professional. I recently moved to the area and had a bad...
Jeny M.
5 years ago
We were at our last dental practice for over 10 years - a family of 6, so when we moved to the area, I was *concerned* about finding a practice we loved as...
Patti M.
5 years ago
Great dentist office..Desi was my hygienist and was so sweet and very informative..Dr. Tay was very nice ..It was a great experience!!
stephanie N.
5 years ago
I have always been afraid to go to any dental office but apple springs family dentistry exceeded all my expectations. Great customer service and its...
Mike B.
5 years ago
Great experience at Apple Springs! Needed to find a new dentist and am glad that I stopped by. The girls in the front were very personable and welcoming!...
Johnny M.
5 years ago
Dr. Tay and his staff are amazing. They greet us with big smile and white teeth! Treat us with care, especially my youngest son who doesn't like going to...
Wayne B.
5 years ago
I am in Texas visiting family and working for the next few weeks and one morning while flossing noticed something in my gums. As my dentist is in...
Susana G.
5 years ago
I love this place!!! The Dr. Tay is amazing, good listener, patience, honest and very professional. The staff is incredible and very friendly. My Daughter...
Lyudmila L.
5 years ago
Apple Spring is an amazing dentist! It's clean, modern, and the people are great! Everything was quick and convenient from portable X-rays to a TV mounted...
Stacy W.
5 years ago
I confess. I am a complete coward when it comes to dentistry. Some bad experiences in my youth fostered a fear of the chair that led me to procrastination...
Krystal S.
5 years ago
Incredible staff! Everyone is super polite and friendly. I love how they do X-rays too. It is already uncomfortable having a wedge in your teeth and for the...
Amber H.
5 years ago
I can not say enough about Dr.Tay and his staff. They are truly amazing! I have never been a fan of going to the dentist even at 30! Apple Springs made me...
Carly C.
5 years ago
Dr Tay and all the staff at Apple Springs are amazing. When we moved to Leander I worried that we wouldn't find the same quality care with the cozy,...
Crystal H.
5 years ago
I'm a new patient here and I love this place. The office is very tidy and I've never had a wait at my appointments. The staff is so amazing and they...
Soni K.
6 years ago
Dr. Tay is great! I visited his office for the first time for a cleaning and orthodontic care evaluation. He is super friendly and very smart in his field...
Edie O.
6 years ago
Awesome experience as always! I have had bad in the past (other clinics). They do a great job explaining what they are doing and do everything possible to...
Lauren C.
6 years ago
A comfortable and relaxing place (even though it is a dental office). Everyone was kind and interested in how I was doing. I usually have quite a bit of...
Meagan H.
6 years ago
Everything was great from the start. I was referred to go see Dr. Tay from a friend who worked for him previously and she recommended him very highly....
Carly C.
6 years ago
Dr Tay and staff are amazing, we relocated to Leander and needed to find a new family dentist, we are so thankful we found Apple Springs. The staff are...
Donald K.
6 years ago
Great experience and top notch dentistry. Just moved down from the NorthEast and by far the best dental experience in a long time.
Sarah A.
6 years ago
Dr. Tay and his team are excellent. They go above and beyond. We've had nothing but great experiences with them.
Mark D.
6 years ago
Very friendly people here, nice office (they even have tv's on the ceiling!), very conscious of safety during covid. I will definitely be back!
Sheryl A.
6 years ago
I can't believe I'm actually going to say this but I'll definitely be going back to Dr. Tay. He's awesome!!! As most people do, I have a phobia of going to...
Deneke O.
6 years ago
My cleaning was gentle yet thorough. I'm happy I changed to this office. Overall the service was great including the front desk person.
Yasmeen A.
6 years ago
I always have a great experience at Apple Springs Dentistry. I get appointment reminders, a quality cleaning, and friendly staff. Dr. Tay is friendly,...
Laura J.
6 years ago
I just moved from Austin to the Leander area and did not feel like driving into Austin just to have my teeth cleaned. I did my due diligence and checked out...
Kathi L.
6 years ago
I love our dentist and his staff! They are always happy and inviting. It is never asked, "did you/do you floss?" There is no blame or shame, only happy...
Yvette D.
6 years ago
This was my first appt with this dental practice. From the office personnel to the dental hygienist to the Dr. was a really good experience!! Everyone was...
Donna A.
6 years ago
Everyone was super nice & made sure I was totally comfortable. Price was what I was expecting. Went in for a cracked tooth & was in and out in 2 hours.
Dustin N.
6 years ago
Look, I love this place, and I am saying that about a dentist. Everyone is great and personable. They maintain the highest standard of care and I wouldn't...
Ry M.
6 years ago
My husband & I both had our first exams & cleanings here this week. We are more than impressed - very clean facility, professional & caring staff &...
Chad H.
6 years ago
Great people here! They got me in and out for a procedure in no time. They were very caring and attentive the entire time I was there. My wife and mother in...
Joe P.
6 years ago
I had an abscessed tooth and needed it removed quickly. I received an appointment within a day or two. I received excellent care but was unable to be numbed...
Julie B.
7 years ago
Everyone in this office is so friendly. They seem to all get along so well. It has a very positive and energetic vibe! Jennifer at the front desk was so...
Shannon S.
7 years ago
Absolutely love Dr. Tay and his entire staff. I have high anxiety when it comes to dental work and his entire staff were very understanding and made me...
Tom M.
7 years ago
Really nice people, easy scheduling and convenient location for me. I recently relocated from Georgetown and needed a new dentist. I found the staff at...
John N.
8 years ago
My teeth are sensitive and I often do not feel comfortable seeing any dentist. Though, this time the cleaning went quite pleasant within my comfort...
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