Emergency Dental Care for Anxious Patients
Having a dental emergency is stressful enough. When you add dental anxiety—or a lifetime of fear about dentists—it can feel almost impossible to pick up the phone for help.
But you do have options. If you’re hesitating to seek urgent care because of anxiety, you’re not alone, and there are proven ways to make the process easier. At Starbody Dental in Murfreesboro, Dr. Kaitlyn and Dr. Michael get it. They believe everyone deserves respect, comfort, and honest answers, especially when pain or panic brings you to their door for the first time.
Today you’ll learn how to find a welcoming emergency dentist, practical calming strategies to use today, the real scoop about sedation, advice for special situations like pregnancy or tight finances, and steps you can start right now to help, even if you’re not quite ready to book.
Don’t let anxiety defer the care you deserve. Pick a dentist who welcomes new and anxious patients, talk about your fears, and ask about gentle sedation or relaxation options. Even if you’re terrified, we encourage you to take the first step; once you do, we’ll help with the rest.
Dental anxiety is one of the top reasons people postpone care even with pain or swelling. According to the Cleveland Clinic, up to 36% of Americans experience some form of dental fear. Unfortunately, dental emergencies don’t wait for nerves to settle.
Left unchecked, small issues can grow into bigger ones, from worsened infections to teeth that could have been saved. At Starbody Dental, our entire team focuses on easing fear and creating positive experiences, not just fixing teeth.
The goal? You walk out feeling helped, not judged.
It’s a huge step to reach out for emergency dental care, especially if you haven’t seen a dentist in years. The first thing to look for is a practice that emphasizes comfort, communication, and real empathy for your experience.
Starbody Dental is committed to seeing new patients, including those with anxiety or long-standing fears, often on the same day. When you call, mention you’re nervous; the front desk can arrange extra time, distraction aids like headphones, or even a walk-through of the space before your appointment. For an idea of what to expect, see our emergency dental care page, which spells out the process from arrival to relief.
Anxiety can make your heart pound—or your mind race—before you even step in the door. Before your visit, focus on slow, counted breathing: inhale for four, hold for four, then exhale for four.
If possible, bring a friend or family member for moral support. Many patients feel better with headphones, their favorite playlist, or even a small comfort object (like a fidget toy or smooth rock). Tell us about your anxiety when you arrive; our team is trained to pause often, explain steps in simple language, and adjust the pace so you always feel in control. Everyone is different, but everyone deserves understanding care.
If you want extra advice, the American Dental Association offers support for anxious patients, too.
Toothaches are one of the main reasons people need urgent dental care. Unrelenting pain—especially when it makes eating or sleeping impossible—means you should call a dentist as soon as possible.
At Starbody Dental, we use numbing gels and gentle injection techniques, sometimes combined with distraction methods, to minimize discomfort. You’ll never be rushed; the focus is always on honesty, step-by-step guidance, and your sense of safety.
Wondering what to expect or if you even need to come in? Find guidance on the emergency dental services page or call for support.
Sedation dentistry can be life-changing for people who worry about pain, needles, or simply being in the dental office.
Starbody Dental offers nitrous oxide (commonly called “laughing gas”) for emergencies, which takes effect within minutes and wears off quickly, so you can safely drive home. In select situations, oral sedation may be an option, especially for more complex treatment or higher anxiety levels.
Bring up your sedation questions early—we’re happy to discuss every option and tailor care to your health, history, and preferences. Learn more about sedation dentistry here.
Emergencies sometimes require complex treatment, like a root canal for severe pain or abscess, or a bridge repair for a broken or lost restoration. At Starbody Dental, an emergency root canal typically costs between $900–$1,400, while repairing a dental bridge often ranges from $350 to $600.
Costs depend on the tooth, extent of repair, and insurance coverage. Our office will always discuss fees before treatment and help you maximize your benefits—no surprises, no pressure. We also have a dental membership club which helps you get exclusive member savings on restorative treatments, among other benefits.
Dental pain has no respect for normal hours. If your emergency happens at night or on a weekend, call your preferred dental office and leave a detailed message; many practices, including Starbody Dental, monitor urgent calls and give after-hours instructions. There are also urgent care dental clinics in some cities.
In the meantime, stick with soft foods and avoid extremes (hot, cold, or sweets) until you can be seen if your dental emergency involves tooth pain.
Managing your anxiety in the chair takes practice and teamwork. Try tensing and relaxing your muscles progressively from your toes up—this kind of body scan can ground you. Squeeze a stress ball or hold something cool in your hand; it can redirect that anxious energy.
At your appointment, you can ask for breaks, request a play-by-play of what’s happening, or signal for a pause.
Dental pain or infections during pregnancy aren’t just stressful—they can impact your health and your baby’s.
Most dental emergencies are safely managed during pregnancy, and treatment is especially encouraged in the second trimester. Always let your dental team know if you’re pregnant. We’ll tailor care to minimize risk, avoid certain medications or procedures, and keep both you and your baby safe. For more, see the American Pregnancy Association’s dental tips.
For some, knowing you’re part of a community helps. There are dental phobia support forums and local community groups where you can share your experience or just get a virtual nod from someone who’s been there.
For those with Medicaid or public insurance, begin with the Tennessee Department of Health for an updated list of accepting clinics. Starbody Dental files all insurance claims for you, even as an out-of-network provider, you just have to ask for assistance.
Not sure if your chipped tooth is really an emergency? If it’s painful, cutting your tongue, or has exposed the nerve, it deserves a same-day call. For suspected abscess or swelling, prompt treatment is vital—abscesses can spread quickly, so schedule a visit as soon as possible. If you can’t make it in right away, Starbody Dental offers phone or virtual consultations for urgent situations, helping you manage pain at home and know when you truly need to come in.
Stress about cost can magnify dental anxiety. Starbody Dental accepts CareCredit, Proceed Finance, and offers an in-office membership plan for the uninsured (see above); some plans don’t require credit checks, so immediate help is within reach. Payment plans are tailored, and you can find more details on our services page.
Lasting tooth pain and fear don’t have to keep you from a healthy smile. With the right office, honest communication, and the support of people who truly care (plus a few tricks up your sleeve), you can get the emergency dental help you need—even if you’re nervous, embarrassed, or completely new to the office. Reach out to Starbody Dental for guidance, empathy, and same-day relief. We’ll do the rest.
Call 615-896-1330 or request an appointment online to set up your first visit. We’ll be in touch soon.
