Flagstaff Dentist Addresses Dental Anxiety With Gentle, Patient-Centered Care

Written by

Afraid of the Dentist? How We Make Every Visit Pain-Free in Flagstaff | Woodlands Village Dentistry

Flagstaff,, United States – June 26, 2026 / Woodlands Village Dentistry /

FLAGSTAFF, Arizona, June 26, 2026 – Woodlands Village Dentistry, a general dental practice serving patients as a trusted dentist in Flagstaff, Arizona since 1992, is drawing attention to one of the most common barriers to oral health: dental anxiety. The practice is sharing practical guidance to help adults in the greater Flagstaff area understand their options and feel more confident about seeking the care they need.

Dental Fear Is More Common Than Most People Realize

Dental anxiety affects a large share of the adult population. Research published in the Journal of Dental Hygiene found that between 50 and 80% of U.S. adults experience some degree of dental anxiety, ranging from mild to severe, and that more than 20% of dentally anxious patients do not see a dentist regularly.

A 2024 national survey published in the Journal of the American Dental Association found that 72.6% of U.S. adults reported some level of dental fear, with 26.8% reporting severe fear.

These numbers point to a clear problem. When fear keeps people away from a dentist in Flagstaff, AZ, small dental issues become larger and more complicated ones over time.

How Woodlands Village Dentistry Approaches Anxious Patients

Woodlands Village Dentistry takes a patient-first approach to care. Before any procedure begins, patients are given time to talk through their concerns. Every step of treatment is explained in plain language. Patients are given stop signals so they stay in control throughout the visit. For patients with significant anxiety, treatment can be broken into shorter visits to build comfort gradually.

“Dental fear is something we take seriously at every appointment,” said Dr. Elliot Martich of Woodlands Village Dentistry. “When a patient tells us they’ve avoided the dentist for years because of a bad experience, that’s not something we brush past. We slow down, we listen, and we work at their pace. Most patients are genuinely surprised by how different a visit can feel when the team around them is paying attention.”

The practice uses digital X-rays and updated dental equipment to reduce discomfort and treatment time. Topical numbing is applied before injections, and local anesthesia is delivered slowly to minimize sensation. The office environment is calm and clean, with views of the San Francisco Peaks.

What Anxious Patients Can Do Before Their Appointment

Woodlands Village Dentistry recommends that anxious patients take a few steps before arriving. Scheduling an early morning appointment reduces the time available to build up worry during the day. Bringing headphones to block out dental sounds is a practical option. Slow, controlled breathing before and during the appointment helps calm the body’s stress response. Most importantly, telling the dental team about the anxiety upfront allows them to adjust their approach from the start.

The practice serves adults throughout Flagstaff, Arizona and nearby areas, including East Flagstaff, North Flagstaff, Doney Park, Foxglenn, and surrounding Coconino County communities. As a trusted Flagstaff dentist, Woodlands Village Dentistry welcomes patients who have avoided care for months or years and are ready to try again.

Woodlands Village Dentistry to Host No-Cost Dental Event on April 18

In addition to its ongoing patient care, Woodlands Village Dentistry is participating in the 2026 Dental Days initiative, a volunteer-based effort organized by Coconino County Health and Human Services to provide no-cost dental care to underserved adults in Coconino County.

On April 18, 2026, the practice will open its doors from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. for no-cost hygiene services, including dental cleanings, at 1120 W University Ave, Flagstaff. A second Dental Days event offering restorative services, including fillings and extractions, will take place on May 2, 2026, at Peak Family Dental Care, 750 N Kendrick St, Flagstaff.

Adults in Coconino County interested in attending should pre-register at least 10 days in advance. Volunteers are also needed for both events.

To register or learn more, contact:

Robin Berry at roberry@coconino.az.gov
JoLena Straight at jolenarai@gmail.com

Dental Days partners include Coconino County Health and Human Services, A New Dawn, BCBS AZ Health Choice, Delta Dental, and Patterson Dental.

Media Contact

Elliot Martich, DMD Woodlands Village Dentistry 1120 W University Ave, Ste 103 Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Phone: (928) 774-5599

Email: woodlandsvillagedentistrydmd@gmail.com.

For media inquiries or to learn more about Dental Days 2026, contact the team directly. Woodlands Village Dentistry is the dentist in Flagstaff, AZ that patients across Coconino County count on for gentle, patient-centered care.

About Woodlands Village Dentistry

Woodlands Village Dentistry has provided general dental services to Flagstaff families since 1992. Services include cleanings, fillings, crowns, root canals, dental implants, and cosmetic dentistry. The office is located at 1120 W University Ave, Suite 103, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, across from Harkins Theatres in the CB Building.