Dental anxiety affects an estimated 36% of the U.S. population — and for many people, especially those who have had negative past experiences, it becomes a barrier that prevents them from getting essential care. At Mi Smile Family Dental, we don't just acknowledge this fear — we have built our entire practice culture around overcoming it.
"When a patient tells me they're nervous, that's the most important thing they can say. It tells me exactly what kind of dentist I need to be in that moment — slower, more communicative, and completely focused on their comfort before their teeth."
— Dr. Soujanya Maddipati, DDS, MPH · Founder, Mi Smile Family Dental
How We Help Anxious Patients
You Control the Pace
Raise your hand at any time and we stop — no questions asked. You are always in control of when we proceed.
We Explain Everything First
No surprises. Dr. Maddipati explains every step — what tool she's using, what it feels like, and how long it takes — before proceeding.
Longer Appointment Times
Anxious patients get longer appointments. We never rush. This is not a high-volume dental chain where you're in and out in 20 minutes.
Bilingual Care
Language barriers increase anxiety. Our team is fully bilingual — everything is communicated in English or Spanish, whichever makes you more comfortable.
Pre-Visit Phone Consultation
Nervous about your first visit? Call 832-779-5522 and speak with our team before booking. We'll answer every question and address every concern.
Zero Judgment
We have seen patients who haven't visited a dentist in 20 years. We never shame, lecture, or make you feel bad about where you're starting from.
What to Tell Us When You Call
When you call 832-779-5522, simply say: "I have dental anxiety." That's it. Our team will flag your appointment so Dr. Maddipati knows before you arrive. We schedule anxious patients with extra time and a specific approach.
Common Sources of Dental Anxiety We See
- Past negative dental experiences — A painful or traumatic past visit that created lasting fear
- Fear of pain or needles — We use topical numbing before any injection, and use the gentlest possible technique
- Loss of control — We give you full control of pace and stopping points
- Embarrassment about dental health — We are judgment-free. Our job is to help, not to evaluate how your teeth got to where they are
- Sensory sensitivity — Sounds, smells, or sensations that cause distress. Tell us and we adapt
- Financial anxiety — Worry about cost should never stop someone from coming in. We accept Medicaid, and offer CareCredit and Sunbit financing — both subject to lender credit approval so cost is never a barrier
For more information on understanding and managing dental anxiety, see the American Dental Association's guidance on dental anxiety .
Ready to Try? Start With a Phone Call
No commitment, no pressure. Call and tell us about your anxiety — we'll take it from there.
Request a Consultation 832-779-5522