Dental anxiety is more common than you might think
If you are afraid of the dentist, you are not alone. Many people avoid appointments because of a past experience, fear of pain, embarrassment, sensitive teeth, gagging, or the feeling of not being in control. At San Marcos Dental Studio, we take those concerns seriously.
What makes our visits different
Your first visit is built around understanding what you need. Dr. Babak Shahrokh reviews your health history, completes a thorough exam, takes any necessary x-rays, and talks with you about the next steps before treatment begins.
We believe you should know what we see, what your options are, and what each choice means. If you need time to think, ask questions, or talk through cost, that is completely okay. Clear communication is part of comfort.
Our team works at an unhurried pace and checks in often. Small things, like explaining what is happening before it happens, can make a big difference when you feel nervous.
Dental anxiety looks different for everyone
A calmer visit may help if you:
Avoid appointments for years
You know you need care, but booking the visit feels like the hardest part. We start slowly and without judgment.
Feel embarrassed about your teeth
Cavities, broken teeth, missing teeth, or time away from the dentist happen. Our job is to help, not shame.
Worry treatment will hurt
Fear of pain can make even a simple visit feel overwhelming. We explain each step and talk through comfort options before treatment begins.
Panic when you sit in the chair
The sounds, smells, tools, or feeling stuck can trigger anxiety fast. Oral sedation can help your body feel calmer.
Wait until something becomes an emergency
Many anxious patients only call when pain forces them to. We offer same-day and after-hours emergency care, even for first-time patients.
Need a lot of dental work
If you feel overwhelmed by everything you need, we break it into a clear plan. One step at a time.
If you waited until something hurts, we can still help
A lot of nervous patients come to us only when pain finally makes waiting impossible. If that is where you are, we understand. Our emergency dental care includes same-day appointments whenever possible, after-hours support, and care for first-time patients with urgent dental needs.
If you are scared and in pain, call us anyway. You don’t need to have everything figured out first.
Payment should not feel like another fear
Cost anxiety is real too. Before treatment begins, we explain your options and review payment expectations so there are no surprises. We accept most PPO plans, offer financing through CareCredit, and accept major credit cards.
If you don’t have dental insurance, ask about our in-house discounted payment program. You can also review our financial information before scheduling. We want you to feel informed before making decisions.
Frequently asked questions
Experiences that speak for themselves
300 five-star reviews on Google!
Always friendly and warm
“The front desk team is always friendly and helpful, which makes every visit pleasant. Each time I’ve had my teeth cleaned, it’s been a good experience. Dr. Babak is a great dentist, and I have no complaints. I’ve had fillings done and a denture made, and it’s been a great experience over the last couple of years going there.”
– Dale
Kind, gentle, and thorough
“The office staff is very friendly and accommodating with my schedule. The work I had done by Dr. Shahrokh was top quality. He was very kind and gentle and explained everything to me before starting. I highly recommend San Marcos Dental Studio.”
– Daphne
Exceptional care and attention
“I recently visited this dental office and had a great experience. The doctors and hygienist were truly exceptional. They were kind, attentive, and took the time to listen to my concerns. Their professionalism made me feel confident in the treatment I received, and I will definitely be coming back.”
– Kimberly
Clear explanations, no pressure
“The staff was extremely helpful, and the dentist was awesome. Everything was explained clearly, and there was no pressure at all. I really appreciated being given the time to think things through.”
Professional, proactive, and trustworthy
“Dr. Shahrokh is very professional and kind. He’s proactive with dental care, which I really appreciate since I’d rather not have to worry about it. The staff is very nice, and the hygienist is the best I’ve ever had. Her cleanings are thorough. The office is clean, they accept many insurance plans, and cash prices were fair.”
Ready when you are
Whether you’re scheduling a visit or have a question for us, we’re here to help make it easy. Reach out today!
San Marcos Dental Studio Contact
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