Smile Without the Stress
Get Help With Dental Anxiety in Bunbury
We Understand Dental Anxiety and Support You Without Judgement
How Eversmile Dental Helps Anxious Patients in Bunbury
- Calming Environment
The clinic provides quiet waiting areas and a serene environment to help patients feel at ease upon arrival. Child-friendly staff support young patients with kindness, creating a space where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued.
- Gentle Communication
Our team speaks calmly and explains each step in clear, simple language that is tailored to the patient’s understanding. Children benefit from “tell-show-do” techniques and positive reinforcement, helping them feel safe and involved during treatment.
- Patient-Centred Approach
Appointments are conducted at a pace that suits each patient, allowing for breaks when needed. Children’s emotional well-being matters as much as their oral health, and they can bring comfort items like headphones or blankets.
- Sedation Dentistry
Sedation options, including nitrous oxide or oral sedatives, may be available for suitable adults or older children. These are offered following a thorough assessment when anxiety significantly affects the ability to receive care.
We Offer Sedation to Help You Feel Calm and Safe
Take the First Step Towards a Healthier Smile
Are you ready to prioritise your oral health? Book a consultation with our friendly team to discuss your needs and explore suitable treatment options.
Our Work, Our Patients’ Happy, Healthy Smiles
*These images display actual patients of our clinic. Every case is different, and treatment outcomes can vary according to individual conditions and needs.
Why Locals Trust Eversmile Dental With Their Smiles
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- Proudly Bunbury Locals
- We don’t just work in Bunbury—we call it home. We raise our kids here, support local schools, and shop at the same weekend markets. We’re part of the fabric of this town, and we’re deeply connected with the people we serve. When you visit Eversmile Dental, you’re seeing someone who truly understands the local lifestyle and community values.
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- Serving Since 2006
- Eversmile Dental has been part of the Bunbury landscape for almost two decades. Founded by Dr. Daniel Tham, our clinic has grown with the town, earning trust through consistency, compassion, and results. We’re proud of our history and even more excited about where we’re heading as we continue caring for generations of local families.
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- Gentle Dental Care for Every Generation
- From a toddler’s first visit to helping grandparents maintain healthy gums, we tailor care for every age. Our calm approach, flexible appointments, and gentle touch make family visits stress-free. We keep things comfortable and tailored to suit your needs because good dental care should feel like home.
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- Personalised Care That Feels Right for You
- You’re not just a number, and we never make you feel like one. At Eversmile Dental, we take the time to listen, explain your options, and create a plan that fits your goals. Whether you’re nervous, curious, or just want a second opinion, we’ll meet you where you’re at, with zero judgement and total transparency.
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- Driven by Our Values
- We believe in doing dentistry the right way—with honesty, integrity, and a patient-first mindset. That means we’ll explain every option clearly, only recommend what you truly need, and give you the space to make confident decisions without pressure. Just professional advice, high-quality care, and a genuine desire to help you feel better about your oral health and your smile.
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- Advanced Technology for Comfort and Precision
- We’ve invested in modern dental technology, like 3D scanners, CBCT imaging, and EMS Airflow. Why? Because it means more accurate diagnoses, faster treatment, and better comfort for you. Just because we’re in regional WA doesn’t mean we settle for outdated care—we bring city-standard dentistry to Bunbury.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section covers helpful information about dental anxiety. It explains what to expect and how we support you during appointments.
How can I calm my nerves before a dental visit?
Feeling nervous before a dental visit is very common and nothing to be ashamed of. There are simple, practical steps you can take to feel more comfortable and in control. Here’s how you can calm your nerves before your dental appointment:
- Practice Slow, Deep Breathing:
Taking slow, deep breaths helps calm your body’s natural stress response. Try inhaling deeply through your nose for four counts, holding for four counts, and then exhaling slowly through your mouth. Repeat this for a few minutes before and during your visit. - Listen to Music or a Podcast:
Bringing your headphones to listen to calming music or a favourite podcast can help distract your mind. This simple distraction can ease anxiety and help you feel more relaxed while waiting for your dental appointment. - Book a Morning Appointment:
Scheduling your dental visit for an earlier time in the day can help reduce anxiety. Morning appointments also tend to have fewer delays, helping you avoid long waiting times. - Discuss Your Concerns with Your Dentist:
By letting your dentist know you feel nervous, they can adjust their approach to better suit your needs. They can explain each step, proceed at a slower pace, and provide breaks if needed. You are always in control. - Bring a Supportive Friend or Family Member:
Having someone you trust with you can offer emotional support. Even just knowing someone is there for you can make a big difference. - Use Calming Scents or Comfort Items:
Holding a stress ball can provide a simple way to feel more grounded and in control during your dental visit. Some studies suggest that lavender aromatherapy may help reduce anxiety during dental appointments for certain individuals. However, responses can vary, and more high-quality research is needed to confirm its effectiveness. - Remember, it’s Okay to Take Breaks:
If you start to feel overwhelmed, it’s completely normal to ask for a short pause. Taking small breaks can help you regain your calm and feel more in control.
Everyone experiences dental anxiety differently, but small, thoughtful actions can make your visit feel much more manageable and less stressful.
Can I be sedated for dental work?
If you feel anxious about dental visits, sedation can be a helpful way to make your experience more comfortable. Here’s how we safely support nervous patients who may benefit from sedation during dental treatment.
- Sedation Helps You Feel Calm and Relaxed:
Sedation uses medication to help you feel calm and reduce anxiety during dental treatment. You will stay awake and responsive while feeling more relaxed throughout the procedure. - Sedation is Reserved for Specific Situations:
Sedation is generally recommended for patients with significant dental anxiety or when undergoing complex treatments. For routine care, many patients feel comfortable with our gentle approach and clear explanations. - Sedation Options:
For patients with dental anxiety, we offer two common sedation options:- Happy Gas (Nitrous Oxide):
A gentle gas that you breathe in through a mask to help you feel calm and relaxed. Its effects wear off quickly after treatment. - Oral sedation:
A prescribed tablet taken before your appointment that helps reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
- Happy Gas (Nitrous Oxide):
- Your Safety is Always Our Priority:
Before offering sedation, we carefully review your medical history and discuss any side effects with you. We assess whether sedation is a safe and appropriate option based on your health and treatment needs. - Personalised Care to Support Your Comfort:
We understand that every patient is different. If you’re feeling nervous, we will discuss your options in a relaxed and pressure-free environment. We’ll explain things clearly so you feel comfortable choosing the approach that’s right for you.
Our Bunbury team will work with you to create a treatment plan that supports your comfort and addresses your concerns. While sedation can help many patients feel more relaxed, every individual responds differently to it. We’ll keep you fully informed and supported throughout your dental visit.
What is the difference between dental fear and dental anxiety?
Many people use the terms “dental fear” and “dental anxiety” interchangeably, but they describe slightly different experiences. Understanding this difference can help you recognise your feelings and get the support you need. The table below shows the key differences between dental fear and dental anxiety:
| Aspect | Dental Fear | Dental Anxiety |
| Nature of the Response | Dental fear is a sudden reaction to a specific trigger, such as seeing a needle or dental tools. It often happens during treatment when certain sights, sounds, or sensations feel overwhelming or uncomfortable. | Dental anxiety is a general feeling of nervousness or worry about visiting the dentist. It can occur even when there is no immediate threat or reason for concern. |
| Point of Occurrence | It often happens “in the moment” and triggers a fight-or-flight response, such as a racing heart or sudden panic. | Anxiety can build up over time, sometimes days or weeks before an appointment, leading to avoidance of dental care. |
| Cause or Trigger | Fear usually has a clear cause, such as a past painful experience or fear of pain. | Anxiety may not always have a clear cause. It can be linked to feelings of loss of control, embarrassment, or general nervousness about dental visits. |
| Effect on Care | Dental fear is often temporary and can ease once the procedure begins, allowing you to feel more comfortable. As your confidence grows during the visit, these fearful feelings usually become less intense. | Dental anxiety can make it harder to book regular dental visits, even when there’s no pain or urgent problem. |
While dental fear is often linked to specific triggers, dental anxiety is more about ongoing worry and avoidance. Both are common, and it’s okay to feel this way. Support is available to help you feel more comfortable and in control during your dental visits.
Is dental anxiety a mental illness?
Dental anxiety is not classified as a mental illness, but it is recognised as a common emotional response. Many people feel nervous or fearful about dental visits due to past experiences or fear of pain. This anxiety can lead to avoiding appointments, which may affect overall oral health in the long run. A compassionate dental team can help manage these feelings with patience, clear communication, and gentle care.
While dental anxiety itself is not a medical disorder, severe cases may overlap with phobias or anxiety disorders. It’s essential to address dental fear early to prevent the worsening of oral health problems. Supportive strategies, like calm environments and sedation options, can make visits less stressful. Every patient deserves to feel safe, respected, and in control during their dental care.
Will the dentist judge me if I haven’t been in years or have bad teeth?
You will never be judged for avoiding the dentist, no matter how long it has been since your last visit. Many patients feel embarrassed, but we understand that life can get busy or that past experiences can create fear. Our focus is on helping you feel comfortable and supported, not on blaming or criticising you. Every smile has a story, and we are here to listen and help without judgement.
Bad teeth or overdue checkups are far more common than you think, and we approach them with kindness and care. We are here to work with you, step by step, towards better oral health at your pace. Your comfort and trust are always more important to us than the state of your teeth. Together, we can create a positive dental experience that helps you feel in control again.
What does laughing gas feel like at the dentist?
If you feel nervous about visiting the dentist, you may wonder what laughing gas feels like during treatment. Laughing gas, also called nitrous oxide, is often used to help patients feel more relaxed and at ease. Many patients ask us this, so let’s walk through what you can typically expect:
- A Light, Relaxing Sensation:
Most patients describe the feeling as light and floaty, as if the body becomes slightly weightless. It’s often compared to a gentle “tingling” or a warm, comforting sensation spreading through the body. - Feeling Calm but Awake:
Laughing gas doesn’t put you to sleep. You’ll stay awake and able to respond throughout your dental visit. At the same time, you’ll feel more relaxed and less sensitive to sights, sounds, or movements. - A Gentle Easing of Worries:
Many people notice their anxious thoughts seem to “soften” or drift away. You may feel more at ease and find that time passes quickly during your appointment. - A Slight Sense of Euphoria:
Some patients experience a mild feeling of happiness or giggles, which is how nitrous oxide earned the name “laughing gas.” This varies from person to person and is generally a pleasant, lighthearted effect. - Fast Effects That Wear Off Quickly:
The calming effects begin within minutes and wear off shortly after the gas is turned off. Most people feel normal again by the time they leave the chair, making it a convenient option for managing anxiety.
Everyone’s experience with laughing gas can feel slightly different, depending on how their body responds. It is considered a safe and well-tolerated option to help patients feel more comfortable during dental treatment. If you have questions about whether it’s right for you, we’ll be happy to discuss it during your appointment.
How painful are procedures like fillings or root canals?
Many people worry that dental procedures like fillings or root canals will be very painful, but that’s rarely the case. Dentists use local anaesthetics to numb the area, so you shouldn’t feel pain during treatment. You might feel pressure or slight discomfort, but it is temporary and manageable. After treatment, mild soreness is common but usually subsides within a few days.
Modern techniques and gentle approaches are used to help you feel as comfortable as possible throughout the procedure. If you’re nervous, your dentist can offer sedation options and explain each step to help you feel more in control. Over-the-counter pain relief is often recommended after treatment to help manage any mild discomfort as you recover. The goal is to protect your oral health while keeping your experience as stress-free as possible.
What if I’m too scared to even make an appointment?
It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed by dental anxiety, even to the point where booking an appointment feels impossible. But there are gentle, supportive steps you can take to regain control, one small action at a time. Here’s how we can help you take that first step:
- Many People Feel this Way:
Fear of the dentist is common, and many people experience the same feelings you’re going through. Acknowledging your anxiety is already a brave first step. - There’s No Shame and No Judgement:
You will never be judged for feeling scared. Our Bunbury team understands that dental fear often comes from past negative experiences, and we are here to listen. - Start with a Friendly Conversation, Not an Appointment:
If booking a dental visit feels overwhelming, you can begin with a brief phone call. We’re happy to answer your questions, explain what to expect, and support you without any pressure to commit. - Bring a Support Person to Help You Feel Safe:
Many patients feel more at ease when they bring a trusted family member or friend to accompany them. Having someone by your side can make the first visit feel less overwhelming. - You Stay in Control of Every Step:
We’ll never rush you into treatment. From the moment you contact us, you set the pace. We’ll explain everything clearly and only proceed when you feel ready. - We Offer Gentle Options for Anxiety:
For patients with severe anxiety, we can discuss sedations like happy gas (nitrous oxide) or oral sedation. This method helps you stay relaxed and comfortable during treatment while remaining awake and aware. These options are always explained carefully, with your safety as our priority.
Even if making an appointment feels like a huge step, remember — you don’t have to face it alone. A simple, friendly conversation can be the start of a more comfortable dental experience.
Why am I so anxious about my teeth?
Feeling anxious about your teeth is more common than you might think. Many people feel anxious about their teeth for different reasons. Understanding these reasons helps you take control of your oral health. Below are some of the most common causes of dental anxiety:
- Past Negative Dental Experiences:
If you’ve had a painful or uncomfortable dental visit in the past, it’s natural to feel anxious about future appointments. Bad memories can create a lasting fear, even if the situation has improved. - Fear of Pain or Discomfort:
Many people worry that dental treatments will hurt, especially if they’ve heard stories from others or experienced discomfort themselves. This fear can make even routine checkups feel overwhelming. - Feeling Embarrassed About Your Teeth:
Concerns about how your teeth look or fearing judgement from the dentist can make you hesitant to book an appointment. It’s important to remember that dentists are here to help, not to judge. - Loss of Control During Treatment:
Sitting in the dental chair and not knowing what’s happening can make you feel vulnerable. Feeling not in control is a common cause of anxiety during medical or dental visits. - Sensitivity to Sounds, Smells, or Sensations:
For some people, the sounds of dental tools or the smells of a clinic can trigger strong anxiety responses. These sensory triggers are real and can be managed with the right support. - Worry About Costs or Treatment Outcomes:
Concerns about how much treatment might cost or uncertainty about what procedures will be needed can add to your anxiety. Clear communication about treatment plans and costs helps ease these worries.
Dental anxiety is nothing to be ashamed of. Understanding why you feel anxious is the first step towards getting the right help for your dental care. This awareness can make your future dental visits feel more manageable and less overwhelming.
How do I stop obsessing over my teeth?
Sometimes, thinking too much about your teeth can be a recurring issue and feel difficult to ignore. When that happens, it can be hard to focus on other things that matter to you. These simple steps can help you regain control of your thoughts and ease the constant worry.
- Focus on Daily Care:
Maintaining a simple routine of brushing twice a day and flossing once is often enough. Trust that these healthy habits are keeping your teeth clean without the need to overthink every detail. - Limit Time Spent Checking in the Mirror:
It’s easy to get into the habit of checking your teeth too often without even realising it. Setting simple limits, such as checking in the morning and evening, can help alleviate constant worry over your teeth. - Avoid Comparing Your Smile to Others:
Every smile is unique. Comparing your teeth to images online or from other people can lead to unnecessary stress. Focus on your dental health, not unrealistic expectations. - Talk to a Trusted Dentist About Your Concerns:
Sharing your worries with a caring dentist can help you feel more at ease and supported. They can identify any real issues and provide you with honest, professional advice, so you’re not left guessing. - Be Mindful of Social Media Triggers:
Scrolling through photos of overly polished smiles on social media can fuel unnecessary concerns. Remember, many of these images are edited or filtered and don’t reflect real life. - Practice Relaxation Techniques to Reduce Overall Anxiety:
Sometimes, obsessing over teeth is linked to general anxiety. Simple breathing exercises, mindfulness, or even a short walk can help calm your mind and ease obsessive thoughts.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by constant worry about your teeth, remember you don’t have to face it alone. Reaching out for support and focusing on what you can control is a positive first step.
