CarolinasDentist Blog

Dealing With Dental Anxiety

woman with clasped hands reclining in dental chair

If the thought of sitting in a dental chair makes your heart race, you’re not alone. Dental anxiety is incredibly common and can prevent people from getting the care they need. At CarolinasDentist, with locations across North Carolina, we’re committed to creating a stress-free experience for every patient. That’s why we offer options like sedation dentistry to help you relax and prioritize your oral health.

    1. Understanding Dental Anxiety

    Dental anxiety can stem from various causes, including fear of pain, past negative experiences, or even the sounds and smells of a dental office. Whatever the cause, skipping appointments due to anxiety can lead to bigger oral health problems down the road, such as gum disease or tooth decay.

    2. How Sedation Dentistry Can Help

    Sedation dentistry is a safe and effective way to ease your anxiety and make your dental experience more comfortable. At CarolinasDentist, we offer modern sedation options tailored to your needs. Here’s how it works:

      Quick Action: Sedation begins to take effect almost immediately, ensuring you feel calm as your procedure starts.

      Pain-Free Treatment: You’ll experience minimal to no discomfort during your visit, allowing the dental team to perform treatments smoothly.

      Amnesia Effect: Sedation often creates a period of amnesia, meaning you’ll have no memory of the procedure afterward.

    3. Who Benefits From Sedation Dentistry?

    Sedation dentistry isn’t just for people with extreme dental anxiety—it’s also helpful if you:

      Require Multiple or Complex Procedures: Complete several treatments in one visit without added stress.

      Have a Strong Gag Reflex: Sedation minimizes discomfort for those with sensitive gag reflexes.

      Struggle to Sit Still: Ideal for patients who find it hard to remain still during lengthy procedures.

      Experience Discomfort From Sensitivity or Medical Conditions: Make your visit more manageable and pain-free.

    Comfortable, Stress-Free Care at CarolinasDentist in North Carolina

    At CarolinasDentist, we want every patient to feel confident and comfortable during their visit. Whether it’s your first time exploring sedation dentistry or you’re ready to take the next step, our caring team is here to help. With 13 locations across North Carolina, finding expert care close to home has never been easier. Contact us today to learn more about sedation dentistry and take the first step toward a healthier smile without fear!

    Contact Us

Related Posts

Brown woman in a white tanktop closes her eyes and holds her hands in a zen pose as she relaxes against a pink background
Overcoming Dental Anxiety

In our blog post, we share tips to help you overcome your dental anxiety so you can get the oral healthcare you need.

Back To Top

Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

Choose your location:      

Select Office To Make Payment To