- Dental anxiety is incredibly common — and nothing to be embarrassed about
- We slow down for nervous patients, explain every step before we do it, and offer comfort measures like blankets and pillows
- Patients are welcome to bring their own headphones, and we can prescribe anti-anxiety medication for patients who need it
- We've never judged anyone for being anxious, and we never will
If you've been avoiding the dentist because you're scared — whether it's been two years or ten — this post is for you. Dental anxiety is one of the most common reasons people put off care. It's not weakness. It's not irrational. For many people it comes from a bad experience, a loss of control, or simply the sounds and sensations of dental work that feel overwhelming. We get it. And we've built our practice around making it better.
You Won't Be Judged
The first thing we want you to know: we're not going to lecture you about how long it's been, or make you feel bad about the state of your teeth, or treat your anxiety like an inconvenience. We hear "I haven't been in years and I'm embarrassed" more than you'd think. Our answer is always the same: we're glad you're here. Let's see where things stand and make a plan.
What We Do Differently for Anxious Patients
We go at your pace. If you need to stop, we stop. If you need a break, you get a break. You're always in control of what happens in that chair.
We explain everything before we do it. No surprises. Before every step, we tell you what we're about to do, what it will feel like, and how long it will take. For a lot of patients, knowing what's coming makes all the difference.
We have comfort items available. We offer blankets and pillows to help you feel more comfortable during longer appointments. The TVs in our operatories play music — a familiar soundtrack makes the environment feel less clinical.
You can bring your own headphones. If music or a podcast helps you tune out the sounds of dental work, bring your earbuds or headphones. We're completely fine with it.
We can prescribe anti-anxiety medication. For patients with significant dental anxiety, Dr. Gegzna can prescribe a mild prescription anti-anxiety medication to take before your appointment. This is a common and effective option for patients who need a little extra help getting through the door. Talk to us about whether this is appropriate for you.
What We Don't Offer
We don't currently offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or IV sedation. For patients with severe dental phobia who need deep sedation, we can discuss referral options.
The Hardest Part Is Walking In
Most anxious patients tell us afterward that the anticipation was worse than the actual appointment. That doesn't make the fear less real — but it does mean that getting through the first visit is usually the biggest hurdle. If you've been putting off dental care because of anxiety, start small. Call us, tell us you're nervous, and schedule a basic exam. No treatment commitment, no pressure. Just a chance to meet the team and see what the office feels like.
Whether you're coming in for routine care or finally tackling dental work you've been putting off, we'll move at a speed that works for you. And if you have questions before you ever step through the door, call us — we're happy to talk it through. You can also read our guide on how to choose a dentist in Mobile, AL if you're still deciding where to go.
Nervous about the dentist? Call us — we'll take it slow and meet you where you are.
Call (251) 308-0584 Book OnlineWe serve patients from Mobile, Theodore, Grand Bay, and the surrounding Gulf Coast area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — Dr. Gegzna can prescribe a mild prescription anti-anxiety medication for patients with significant dental anxiety. Ask about this option when you schedule your appointment.
We don't currently offer nitrous oxide. For patients who need deeper sedation, we can discuss referral options.
Just raise your hand. We stop immediately, give you a moment, and check in before continuing. You are always in control.
Never. We see patients who haven't been in years regularly. We're glad you're here, and we'll meet you where you are.
Dr. Joseph Gegzna, DMD is the founder and lead dentist at Rabbit Creek Dental in Mobile, Alabama. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry and has been a licensed dentist in Alabama since 2014, with more than 12 years of experience in general, restorative, and implant dentistry. After several years practicing as an associate, he founded Rabbit Creek Dental in 2022 to build the kind of patient-first practice he believed in. He has completed advanced implant training through a 92-hour Implant Pathway program with live patient surgery and additional surgical training in impacted third molar extractions through the Koerner Center for Surgical Instruction. He is a member of the American Dental Association and is currently in his third year of the Bulletproof Dental Mastermind program, a continuing education group focused on delivering an exceptional patient experience. Before dentistry, Dr. Gegzna was a licensed pilot, bringing a calm, detail-oriented approach to patient care. Rabbit Creek Dental serves families throughout Mobile.
This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. For personalized guidance about your dental health, please contact our office at (251) 308-0584.