Dental Infections and Anxiety: Why Delaying Care Gets Risky

Delaying dental care due to anxiety? Why dental infections get worse over time, the risks of waiting, and how sedation options can help.

If you’re dealing with dental pain—or even suspect something might be wrong—but feel too anxious to schedule an appointment, you’re not alone.

Many patients find themselves stuck between two difficult realities: concern about a possible infection or the fear of going to the dentist.

dental-infection
Yes, my grandson has nonverbal autism and they took very good care of him.. He had to have some extra extractions which I was concerned about, but everything went very well. Very happy and I thank you all for all the work you did.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words. We’re so glad to hear you had a positive experience and that everything went smoothly. We truly appreciate your trust in us.
I took my son to an appointment today with Dr. Hoffman. We had a great experience from the time we arrived until we departed. The receptionist was very friendly and helpful. The dental assistants were very helpful and polite with my son. The doctor is very kind and patient. They explain everything as we went through the process. We were aware of the cost from the beginning to the end and we're allowed to make decisions about how to handle my child's care and not shocked with additional charges after the fact. My child does not resist going to this office. Great experience.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad to hear your experience was positive from start to finish. Our team works hard to create a comfortable, transparent, and supportive environment for every patient and family. We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback!
Always nice and professional doctors and staff! Highly recommend especially if you have dental anxiety!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad you felt comfortable with our team. We truly appreciate your recommendation!
Dr. Thoms and everyone of his staff members are incredible. I was warmly welcomed and made to feel comfortable and relaxed. Which is saying something as I had not been to the dentist in years due to fear/anxiety.
My procedure was clearly explained. The office staff was beyond helpful with payment and insurance.
The day of my appt was exactly as planned. We started ahead of schedule! The technicians and assistants were clearly skilled and again, helped ease my nervousness. We finished all work as planned. And then Dr. Thoms sat with me and my husband to discuss “everything.” He is very thorough. And finally one of his staff wheeled me down to the elevator, out across the parking lot, and helped me into my van. Now that is service!
Around 8:30 p.m. my cell phone rang and it was Dr. Thoms calling to check up on me. Wow!!!!! This man has all you could want in a dentist—kind, compassionate, thorough, understanding, excellent communicator, and skilled.
I cannot come up with the best words to so highly recommend the Dental Anesthesia Center. It was a remarkable, yet simple, but thorough experience for me.
If you are putting off going to the dentist and have anxiety or fears please call them. They will gently and competently take care of you.
And no, this is not an advertisement/ commercial—I am a real live (satisfied) patient.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful review! We’re honored to hear that you felt welcomed, comfortable, and well cared for throughout your experience. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate, thorough care—especially for those who may feel anxious about dental visits—so it means a lot to know that came through. We truly appreciate your recommendation and are grateful you chose us for your care.
The practice is top notch. Could not ask for better care.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re grateful for your feedback and are proud to provide high-quality care in a supportive environment.

Why Dental Infections Don’t Go Away on Their Own

Unlike some minor health issues, dental infections do not resolve on their own. An infection inside a tooth or under the gums is typically caused by bacteria that continue to grow over time. Without intervention, the infection can spread beyond its original location.

What may start as mild discomfort can gradually turn into something more serious. Common early signs include:

What Happens When Treatment Is Delayed

When care is postponed—especially due to anxiety—the infection doesn’t stay the same. It progresses. Over time, you may experience:

  • Increasing pain or pressure
  • Visible swelling in the face or jaw
  • Difficulty eating or sleeping
  • A spreading infection that affects the surrounding teeth or tissues

In more advanced cases, dental infections can become medical concerns that require urgent attention.

The Anxiety Cycle That Keeps People Stuck

For many patients, the delay isn’t about ignoring the problem—it’s about feeling unable to face treatment. This often creates a cycle:

The longer this continues, the more complex the dental issue can become.

Why Early Treatment Is Almost Always Easier

One of the most important things to understand is that earlier treatment is typically simpler, shorter, and more manageable. For example:

  • A small area of decay may only need a filling
  • An early infection may be treated before it spreads
  • Discomfort can be addressed before it becomes severe

Delaying care often leads to:

  • More involved procedures
  • Longer appointments
  • Greater overall stress

Options That Make Treatment Possible

If anxiety has been the reason for delaying care, it’s important to know there are different ways to approach treatment. Depending on your situation, options may include:

For Mild to Moderate Anxiety

For Moderate to Severe Anxiety or Inability to Tolerate Treatment

These options are designed to remove the barrier of fear—so you don’t have to “push through” an experience that feels unmanageable.

Ready to Take the First Step?

If you’re dealing with a possible dental infection but feel unsure about what to do next, starting with a conversation can make things feel more manageable. Contact us today by calling (314) 862-7844 or filling out our online contact form.

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The first two board-certified Dentist Anesthesiologists in the state of Missouri.

Updated: March 24, 2026