“Save Teeth. Save Lives.”

At Central Park Dental in Mansfield, Texas, we understand that visiting the dentist can sometimes bring about feelings of anxiety or apprehension. It’s a completely normal human response, and you’re not alone. In fact, the 2025 State of America’s Oral Health and Wellness Report, commissioned by Delta Dental, highlights that over one in five adults (21%) have avoided dental care due to anxiety, and 14% of parents have skipped their children’s dental visits for the same reason.

As a dental professional, Dr. Jiyoung Jung and our entire team at Central Park Dental are dedicated to creating a holistic, educational, and authoritative environment where your comfort and well-being are paramount. We believe that understanding the roots of dental anxiety and offering practical solutions can transform your dental experience from one of dread to one of ease and even empowerment.

Understanding Dental Anxiety: More Common Than You Think

Dental anxiety isn’t just a fleeting nervousness; for many, it’s a significant barrier to receiving essential oral healthcare, both preventive and unexpected. This can lead to a vicious cycle where avoided appointments result in more serious dental issues, further intensifying anxiety about future visits.

The Delta Dental report sheds light on the generational differences in dental anxiety, noting that younger generations are more prone to avoiding oral health care due to this concern:

• Gen X: 24%
• Millennials: 23%
• Gen Z: 22%
• Boomers: 17%

These statistics underscore the widespread nature of dental anxiety and the critical need for dental practices to address it proactively.

The Voices Behind the Worry: Why Do We Feel Anxious?

When we talk about dental anxiety, it’s often rooted in specific concerns. The Delta Dental report identifies the top reasons adults feel anxious at the dentist:

• Fear of Pain or Discomfort: A staggering 59% of adults attribute their anxiety to the thought of pain or discomfort. This is a deeply ingrained fear for many, stemming from past experiences or stories.
• Cost Concerns: Nearly half of anxious adults (49%) worry about the cost of dental treatment. Financial considerations can be a significant deterrent, especially when anticipating unexpected procedures.
• Past Unpleasant Experiences: For 48% of individuals, previous negative encounters at the dentist contribute to their current anxiety. A bad experience can leave a lasting impression, making future visits daunting.
• Sensory Overload: The sounds and smells of a dental office stress out 39% of anxious patients. The distinct aromas of disinfectants, the whirring of drills, and even the bright lights can trigger unease.
• Embarrassment about Oral Health: Another 39% feel embarrassed about the current state of their oral health. This can be a particularly vulnerable feeling, making it difficult to seek help.

Understanding these common concerns is the first step towards overcoming them. At Central Park Dental, Dr. Jung and our team recognize that addressing these specific anxieties is key to fostering a more positive and comfortable environment for our patients.

Children and Dental Anxiety: A Special Focus

It’s not just adults who grapple with dental anxiety; children experience it too. More than one in four parents (26%) report that their child feels anxious about cleanings and exams. This is especially true for children between the ages of 6 and 12, with 31% in this age group feeling anxious during preventive dental visits, compared to 17% of younger children.

Common reasons for children’s dental anxiety often mirror those of adults, with a focus on anticipating pain or discomfort. Nearly three out of four parents (72%) whose anxious child visited the dentist reported their child anticipated pain or discomfort. Other key contributors include:

• Dental office sights, sounds, and smells: 41%
• Fear of needles: 37%

As Cindy McGregor, DDS, Vice President of Dental Services at Delta Dental of Minnesota, emphasizes, “Establishing good oral health habits early in childhood sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles”. This includes making dental visits a positive experience. Dr. Jung and our team at Central Park Dental are highly experienced in working with children, using compassionate care and techniques like “tell-show-do” to help ease their worries and make their visits fun and engaging.

Our Approach to Anxiety-Free Dentistry at Central Park Dental

At Central Park Dental in Mansfield, Texas, we believe that every patient deserves a comfortable and stress-free dental experience. Dr. Jiyoung Jung’s philosophy is rooted in a holistic approach, where your physical, mental, and emotional well-being are all considered. We’ve designed our practice and our approach to care specifically to address the common concerns that contribute to dental anxiety.

Patient-Centered Care: You’re in Control

Joseph Dill, DDS, MBA, Chief Dental Officer at Delta Dental Plans Association, notes that addressing dental anxiety “requires a focus on patient-centered care and ongoing education”. This perfectly aligns with Dr. Jung’s practice. We prioritize:

• Active Listening: We take the time to listen to your concerns, understand your past experiences, and address any fears you may have. We encourage open communication so you feel heard and respected.
• Clear Explanations: We explain every step of your treatment in clear, understandable language, avoiding confusing jargon. Knowing what to expect can significantly reduce anxiety.
• Empowering You with Choices: We discuss all your treatment options, allowing you to make informed decisions about your oral health. You are an active participant in your care.
• Taking Breaks: If you need a moment to relax during a procedure, simply let us know. We can pause at any time to ensure your comfort.
• Comfort Amenities: We offer a variety of amenities to help you relax, such as comfortable chairs, blankets, and access to entertainment.

Advanced Dental Laser Treatments in Mansfield, TX | Central Park Dental

At Central Park Dental, we are proud to offer state-of-the-art dental laser treatments as a cornerstone of our commitment to patient comfort and anxiety reduction. Dental lasers represent a significant advancement in modern dentistry, allowing for a more precise, less invasive, and often pain-free experience for a wide range of procedures.

How Dental Lasers Enhance Your Comfort:

• Reduced Pain and Discomfort: For many procedures, dental lasers can significantly reduce or even eliminate the need for traditional drills and anesthesia. This is particularly beneficial for patients with a fear of needles or the sound of the drill.
• Minimized Bleeding and Swelling: Lasers precisely target and seal blood vessels, leading to less bleeding during and after procedures. This also contributes to reduced post-operative swelling and discomfort.
• Faster Healing Times: The gentle nature of laser treatment often promotes faster healing and recovery compared to conventional methods.
• Less Invasive: Lasers can perform precise work on soft and hard tissues with minimal impact on surrounding healthy areas, making procedures less invasive and more comfortable.
• Quieter Experience: Unlike traditional drills, dental lasers operate with minimal noise, helping to alleviate anxiety related to the sounds of a dental office.
• Reduced Risk of Infection: The high-energy light of lasers can sterilize the area, reducing the risk of bacterial infection.

Dr. Jiyoung Jung utilizes advanced dental laser technology for various treatments, including:

• Gum disease treatment
• Cavity preparation (often without a drill)
• Soft tissue procedures
• Frenectomies
• And more, providing a gentler alternative for many common dental needs.

Our investment in this cutting-edge technology reflects our dedication to ensuring your dental visit is as comfortable and stress-free as possible right here in Mansfield, TX.

Education as Empowerment: Bridging the Knowledge Gap

A key aspect of reducing anxiety is understanding. The Delta Dental report points out that while adults are generally aware of the link between oral health and overall well-being, there’s “a clear opportunity to foster more education on the link between poor oral health and specific medical conditions such as heart disease, respiratory illness, and high blood pressure”.

At Central Park Dental, we are passionate about educating our patients. We’ll explain how your oral health directly impacts your systemic health, empowering you with knowledge that can motivate you to prioritize your dental care without fear. For example, did you know that periodontal (gum) disease can be linked to conditions like heart disease, respiratory illness, and even adverse pregnancy outcomes? We make sure you understand these crucial connections.

The Benefits of Overcoming Dental Anxiety

When you overcome dental anxiety and prioritize your oral health, the benefits extend far beyond just a healthy smile. The 2025 State of America’s Oral Health and Wellness Report highlights numerous advantages, particularly for those with dental insurance:

• Improved Physical Health: Regular preventive visits, encouraged by dental insurance, help prevent common issues like cavities and gum disease. Addressing oral health issues early can save you money in the long term.
• Enhanced Mental Well-being: Dental insurance can significantly reduce worry about future dental emergencies, providing overall peace of mind. Knowing you’re covered can alleviate a major source of stress.

By choosing Central Park Dental, you’re not just getting dental care; you’re gaining a partner in your journey towards optimal oral and overall health, free from the burden of anxiety.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Anxiety and Our Practice

We’ve compiled some common questions we receive about dental anxiety and how we address it at Central Park Dental.

Q1: What should I do if I’m extremely anxious about my dental appointment?

A1: The most important step is to communicate your anxiety to us when you schedule your appointment or upon arrival. We can discuss various options, including sedation dentistry (like nitrous oxide) and the use of dental lasers, to help you relax. Dr. Jung and our team are trained to provide compassionate care and will work at your pace.

Q2: How do you make dental visits comfortable for children?

A2: We create a positive and fun environment for children. Dr. Jung uses kid-friendly language, the “tell-show-do” technique, and positive reinforcement to make their visits enjoyable. We understand that patience and understanding are key when working with young patients.

Q3: What if my anxiety is related to the cost of treatment?

A3: We believe that financial concerns should not be a barrier to essential dental care. We offer transparent pricing and will discuss all treatment costs upfront. We also work with various insurance providers and can help you understand your benefits. We can also explore payment plans to make your dental care affordable.

Q4: Can dental anxiety be completely cured?

A4: While “cured” might be a strong word, dental anxiety can certainly be managed and significantly reduced. Through open communication, patient-centered care, relaxation techniques, and modern advancements like dental lasers and sedation, many patients find that their anxiety lessens over time, allowing them to receive consistent and necessary dental care.

Q5: What is the “tell-show-do” technique?

A5: The “tell-show-do” technique is particularly effective for children and anxious adults. We tell you what we’re going to do in simple terms, then show you the instruments or demonstrate the procedure on a model, and finally, we do the procedure gently and carefully. This reduces fear of the unknown.

Q6: How does Central Park Dental stay updated on the latest techniques for anxiety management?

A6: Dr. Jiyoung Jung and our entire team are committed to ongoing education and professional development. We regularly attend seminars and workshops focusing on patient comfort, sedation dentistry, and the latest advancements in anxiety management techniques, including dental laser technology, to ensure we provide the best possible care.

Q7: I haven’t been to the dentist in years due to anxiety. Am I too embarrassed to come in?

A7: Absolutely not! We understand that life happens, and dental anxiety can lead to prolonged absences from the dentist. We never judge. Our primary goal is to help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. We’re here to help you get back on track, no matter how long it’s been.

Your Path to a Healthier, Happier Smile Starts Here

At Central Park Dental, located conveniently in Mansfield, Texas, Dr. Jiyoung Jung and our dedicated team are here to help you overcome dental anxiety and achieve the healthy, beautiful smile you deserve. We offer comprehensive dental services, always with a focus on your comfort and well-being, including the benefits of advanced dental laser treatments.

Don’t let dental anxiety prevent you or your loved ones from receiving the essential care needed for optimal oral and overall health. We are committed to making your dental visits a positive and empowering experience.

Ready to experience comfortable, anxiety-free dental care?

Call Central Park Dental today at 817-466-1200 to schedule your appointment or visit our website to learn more. Let us show you how a visit to the dentist in Mansfield, Texas, can be a relaxed and even enjoyable part of your health journey. We look forward to welcoming you to our dental family!