Are you nervous about going to the dentist? You aren’t alone—many people avoid the dentist until they’re in pain. This pain may then increase anxiety, and the cycle never ends.

If you’re anxious, just let our receptionist know before your first appointment. By using medication and combining treatments in fewer appointments, we’ve helped many patients overcome their anxiety. You’ll take the medication about one hour before your appointment, which will make you feel very relaxed and sleepy.

If you and Dr. Wright decide to take this approach, you’ll need a driver to bring you to and pick you up from your appointment. And you won’t be able to drive for the rest of the day. In fact, somebody should stay with you until the medication completely wears off, which typically takes about four to eight hours.

Dr. Kimberly Wright

Dr. Kimberly Wright

Dr. Kimberly Wright graduated from the University of Oregon and Oregon Health and Science University. She is a lifelong learner, taking over 100 hours of continuing education annually. Dr. Wright earned the prestigious Mastership Award from the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) and is a past MasterTrack Director for Oregon’s AGD, for which she had also served as past president. She was the past trustee for the Oregon Dental Association too. She is a member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Orofacial Pain, Pierre Fauchard Academy, and the American College of Dentists.