Dental Phobia & Fear of the Dentist in Sherman Oaks
Nervous about the dentist? You are in gentle hands. Dr. Aryan Sadighim and Dr. Ruben Soleymani are known for making even the most anxious patients feel at ease.
If the thought of a dental visit makes your heart race, you are not alone, and you have nothing to be embarrassed about. At Riverside Dental Sherman Oaks we listen to your concerns first, explain your options in plain language, and offer comfort and sedation options so you can get the care you need without the dread.
Dr. Aryan Sadighim: Anxiety Free, Comfort Focused Care
Dr. Sadighim is known for his gentle approach, detail oriented care, and ability to make even the most nervous patients feel at ease. His background includes a Bachelor of Science in Psychobiology from UCLA and a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from USC, so he pairs clinical skill with a real understanding of patient behavior and comfort.
Anxiety free, comfort focused dentistry is one of his areas of expertise, and he speaks both English and Farsi.
Dr. Ruben Soleymani: A Calming, Gentle Touch
Dr. Soleymani is one of the founding owners of Riverside Dental Sherman Oaks and a graduate of the USC School of Dentistry. His gentle touch and calming demeanor make him especially popular with patients who experience dental anxiety.
He believes in patient education and shared decision making, and takes the time to explain treatment options clearly, so you feel confident and in control of every step.
How We Help Nervous Patients Feel at Ease
We Listen First
Tell us what worries you. We start by listening to your concerns and reviewing your medical history.
Clear, Honest Explanations
We explain what we see and every option in plain language, so there are no surprises in the chair.
Sedation Options
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or oral conscious sedation, chosen with you for your health, procedure and level of anxiety.
A Relaxing Office
A modern, spa like space with TVs, headphones and cozy amenities to help you settle in.
Is Dental Fear Holding You Back?
Many people put off the dentist for years because of fear, and small problems can quietly grow in the meantime. Sedation and a gentle, patient team can make care possible again.
Our comfort options can help if you:
- Feel anxious before or during dental appointments
- Avoid dental care due to fear or past experiences
- Have a sensitive gag reflex or difficulty getting numb
- Need multiple procedures completed in fewer visits
- Have special needs or sensory sensitivities
Comfort Options at Riverside Dental
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
Oral conscious sedation
Local anesthetic for a comfortable visit
TVs, headphones and cozy amenities
Two gentle, patient dentists
Why Nervous Patients Choose Riverside Dental
- Dentists known for calming anxious patients
- Sedation options reviewed with you before treatment
- Every option explained clearly, no pressure
- A boutique practice, not a high volume clinic
- Serving the Sherman Oaks community for over 20 years
Testimonials
What Our Patients Are Saying
FAQ’s
Frequently Asked Questions
Dental phobia is a strong fear or anxiety about going to the dentist. It can come from a painful past visit, fear of needles or the sounds of treatment, or feeling out of control in the chair. It is common, and it is treatable with the right team and comfort options.
We offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas), a light, fast acting sedation through a nose mask, and oral conscious sedation, a prescription pill taken before your appointment that helps you feel deeply relaxed. Local anesthetic is used with sedation to keep the treatment area comfortable. During your consultation we review your medical history and recommend the safest option for you.
With nitrous oxide, yes: it wears off quickly and you can drive yourself home. With oral conscious sedation, you will need someone to drive you home.
Both of our dentists are a great fit. Dr. Aryan Sadighim is known for making even the most nervous patients feel at ease and speaks English and Farsi. Dr. Ruben Soleymani is especially popular with patients who experience dental anxiety for his gentle touch and calming demeanor. Call us at (818) 784-5889 and let us know you feel anxious, and we will help you choose.
Take the First Step, at Your Own Pace
Call us or book online and let us know dental visits make you nervous. We will talk through your concerns and your comfort options before any treatment begins.