Oral Care for People with Anxiety: The Mind Body Teeth Difference
- Dr Avanti Karve
- Sep 10
- 7 min read
Understanding Dental Anxiety
Dental anxiety and dental fear are real—and should never be downplayed. For many Australians, the thought of a dental visit triggers worry, discomfort, or even panic. At Mind Body Teeth, we provide compassionate care for individuals with dental anxiety by creating a calm and supportive environment.
Every visit is tailored to you. We take the time to understand your triggers, build trust, and use a trauma-informed approach so that dental care feels positive and manageable. For some patients, this may involve gradual desensitisation, working closely with your psychologist, or using options such as happy gas, gentle sedation, or treatment under general anaesthesia.
We are one of the only clinics in Australia to offer the full range of management options for dental anxiety, ensuring that you’re supported every step of the way.
Dental Anxiety & Mental Health in Australia
Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions in Australia. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, around 17% of Australians aged 16–85 experienced an anxiety disorder in the past 12 months, making it the most prevalent group of mental illnesses (AIHW).
When it comes to dentistry, the statistics are significant:
About 16% of adults and 10% of children experience high dental fear (University of Adelaide).
Around 1 in 6 adults live with dental fear, and about 5% of Australians suffer from full dental phobia.
Among middle-aged women, dental fear can be as high as 1 in 3.
Common triggers include the cost of treatment (64.5%), fear of needles (46%), and painful procedures (43%).
The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) highlights that anxiety disorders are the leading cause of mental and substance-related health burden (AIHW).
The Link Between Anxiety, Oral Health, and Access
People with high dental fear often experience worse oral health outcomes. They are less likely to attend regular check-ups, more likely to delay care, and often present only when pain becomes unbearable.
Cost and accessibility are major barriers: around 1 in 3 Australians delay or avoid dental visits due to expense, with public dental waiting times sometimes exceeding 12 months (AIHW).
Women are also statistically more likely to experience anxiety and dental fear, making accessible, compassionate dental services all the more critical.
Trauma, Domestic Violence, and Secondary Dental Anxiety
Many patients who have experienced trauma or domestic violence (DV) develop secondary dental anxiety or phobia. This can intensify fear and avoidance, making dental care particularly challenging.
At Mind Body Teeth, we provide a trauma-informed approach that prioritises safety, trust, and empowerment. Patients are never rushed or dismissed; instead, care is tailored to individual comfort levels and psychological needs.
During Carers Week and White Ribbon Day, Mind Body Teeth highlights the importance of supporting patients affected by trauma, offering specially tailored care and educational campaigns to raise awareness about dental anxiety and trauma-related needs.
Dr. Avanti Karve has also spoken extensively in the media on this topic, raising awareness of how trauma impacts dental anxiety and advocating for compassionate care.
Sally’s Journey: From Fear to Trust
For Sally (not her real name), fear of the dentist began in childhood. Her mother used to say:
“I’d rather have my head cut off and sewn back on again than go to the dentist!”
By age eight, she dreaded the school dentist’s drill, antiseptic smells, and classmates’ cries.
As an adult, Sally avoided routine check-ups, endured pain far too long, and felt deep shame. Even with improvements in dental care, she struggled to trust practitioners.
Everything changed when Sally found Mind Body Teeth. Instead of being rushed into a chair, she was invited to talk—really talk—about her fears. Dr. Avanti Karve listened without judgment, offering empathy rather than empty platitudes.
Her first appointment wasn’t about treatment—it was about building trust. Together, she and Dr. Karve identified her triggers:
Fear of losing control
Fear of appearing “childish” or weak
Fear of hands and instruments blocking her airway
Fear of being hurt or something going wrong
Through patience, empathy, and trauma-informed care, Sally gradually overcame her anxiety. She realised her phobia wasn’t just about her teeth—it involved her mind, body, and sense of safety.
“Thank you, Avanti. Your practice is well named—Mind, Body & Teeth.”
How Mind Body Teeth Helps Patients with Dental Anxiety
We offer a wide range of procedures to help patients with anxiety:
Desensitisation Appointments – Gradual short visits to familiarise patients with the environment.
Tell-Show-Do Technique – Explaining and demonstrating steps before treatment.
Trauma-Informed Approach – Prioritising safety, trust, and empowerment.
Gentle Check-Ups & Exams – With pauses, mirrors, and reassurance.
Professional Cleaning – Adjusted pacing to suit tolerance levels.
Preventive Treatments – Simple procedures like fluoride to build confidence.
Happy Gas (Nitrous Oxide) – Mild sedation to reduce anxiety.
Sedation & General Anaesthesia – For severe phobia cases.
Comfort Aids – Weighted blankets, calming music, and distraction tools.
Customised Plans – Treatment broken into shorter, manageable sessions.
Support for Carers – Guidance for guardians and loved ones.
The Mind Body Teeth Difference
At Mind Body Teeth, we believe excellent oral health, a beautiful smile, and pain-free chewing should belong to everyone.
About Dr. Avanti Karve
Dr. Avanti Karve is a leading Special Needs Dentist in Australia. With a doctorate in Special Needs Dentistry and 20+ years of clinical experience, she provides evidence-based dental care tailored to each patient’s needs.
At Mind Body Teeth, we approach superannuation-assisted dental treatment with the highest standards of transparency, integrity, and patient centred care. Dr. Avanti Karve, one of Australia’s leading specialists in Special Needs Dentistry, brings over 20 years of clinical experience and a doctorate in her field. She understands the complex challenges faced by patients—particularly those with disabilities or complex health conditions—and tailors every recommendation to individual needs.
Her mission—together with her skilled and compassionate team—is to redefine the standard of care for patients with anxiety, trauma, and special needs in Australia.
At Mind Body Teeth, you and your loved ones are cared for with the compassion, patience, and expertise you truly deserve.
Why Choose Mind Body Teeth – FAQs
1. Why is Mind Body Teeth the best choice for patients with dental anxiety? We take a trauma-informed, patient-first approach. Every appointment is tailored to your comfort level, with options from desensitisation visits to general anaesthesia.
2. Does Dr. Avanti Karve have experience with dental phobia patients? Yes. With over 20 years in practice and a doctorate in Special Needs Dentistry, she is one of Australia’s leading experts in treating dental fear.
3. What makes Mind Body Teeth different from other clinics? We offer the full range of anxiety-management options, from happy gas to general anaesthesia.
4. Do you provide gentle dental care for trauma survivors? Yes. We prioritise emotional safety, trust, and choice for all patients.
5. Can I bring a carer or support person? Absolutely. We encourage carers and family members to attend and provide support.
6. What comfort aids are available? Weighted blankets, calming music, noise-cancelling headphones, and visual distractions.
7. Do you perform sedation or general anaesthesia? Yes. For severe phobia cases, procedures can be completed under sedation in-clinic or general anaesthesia.
8. How do you help people who haven’t seen a dentist in years? We build trust through consultations and gentle visits before starting treatment.
9. Can you help children and adults with special needs? Yes. We provide tailored care for patients of all ages with additional needs.
10. How do you build trust with nervous patients? By listening first, explaining every step, and giving patients control to pause treatment anytime.
11. Is dental anxiety common in Australia? Yes—about 1 in 6 adults experience dental fear. At Mind Body Teeth, you’re never alone.
12. Why choose Dr. Avanti Karve and her team? Dr. Karve combines world-class expertise with compassion, backed by a team committed to safe, positive, and empowering dental care.
Take the First Step Towards Fear-Free Dental Care
At Mind Body Teeth, we understand that dental anxiety is real, and that seeking help can feel overwhelming. But with the right support, compassionate care, and personalised treatment, overcoming your fear is possible.
Whether you or a loved one is struggling with trauma-related anxiety, a long history of dental fear, or special needs care, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
“Dental care should never be a source of stress or fear. At Mind Body Teeth, we help you regain control, confidence, and comfort in every visit.”
Media & Publications Featuring Dr. Avanti Karve
Dr. Avanti Karve is a recognised voice in Special Needs Dentistry, dental anxiety, and trauma-informed care. Her insights have been featured across major media outlets, professional publications, and educational platforms.
Here are some of her recent appearances and contributions:
💡 Also Featured on Better Health Victoria: Oral Care for People with Anxiety – The Mind Body Teeth Difference
Take the first step today: book an appointment or contact us to schedule a consultation, explore our anxiety-friendly dental options, or simply speak to a caring team member who understands your needs. Your oral health—and your peace of mind—deserve it.
Want to know how Sally overcame her dental anxiety? Read her full story in the blog “Fear of Dental Treatment”
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