At Rivers + West Family Dentistry in Mt. Pleasant, SC, we understand that visiting the dentist isn’t easy for everyone. Dental phobia and severe gag reflexes are very real conditions that can prevent people from receiving the care they need. Our compassionate dental team is here to help you or your loved one feel at ease from the moment you walk through our doors:
Personalized Care for Patients With Dental Phobia and Gag Reflex Sensitivity
Roughly 36% of Americans experience some level of dental anxiety, with an estimated 12% suffering from extreme dental fear. In Charleston County and throughout the Mount Pleasant area, many individuals quietly struggle with these challenges. At our conveniently located office on Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Rivers + West Family Dentistry has become a trusted name in supporting patients who have unique barriers to oral care.
Led by Mount Pleasant native Dr. Chris Rivers and seasoned dental professional Dr. Kate West, our practice brings a deeply rooted commitment to the community we serve. Both doctors earned their Doctorate of Dental Medicine from MUSC, and Dr. West completed a hospital-based General Practice Residency with focused training in treating patients with special needs and anxiety. Their experience means we’re equipped not just with techniques, but with empathy and understanding that make all the difference.
If the sound of dental tools, the feeling of instruments in your mouth, or past negative experiences make you avoid the dentist, you’re not alone. We offer:
- Gentle communication and a patient-led pace
- Minimally invasive techniques when possible
- Options for nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or other sedation dentistry when appropriate
- Flexible appointment times to reduce stress triggers
- A calm, sensory-considerate environment tailored to your comfort
What Is a Severe Gag Reflex, and How Do We Help?
A sensitive gag reflex can make even routine cleanings difficult. For some, it’s a barrier to every type of care—from X-rays to restorations. At Rivers + West, we address this with real solutions. Our team has decades of combined experience working with patients who thought dental care was impossible.
Here’s how we help:
- Relaxation and breathing techniques guided by our staff
- Strategic chair positioning and numbing agents
- Smaller, low-profile dental tools to reduce gag triggers
- Extra time built into appointments, with full respect for your needs
You won’t be rushed, and your input drives the pace and style of care. Many of our patients report a dramatic shift in confidence after just one or two visits.
Local Experience You Can Trust
Our team has been serving families in Mount Pleasant for decades. Before his retirement, Dr. Dale Tanner helped establish the foundation of compassionate care that still defines our practice today. We’ve treated multiple generations of Lowcountry residents—and our mission remains the same: delivering respectful, conservative, and honest care without judgment.
Whether you’re returning to dental care after years away, or searching for a provider who understands your needs, we’ll guide you step-by-step. From pre-visit planning to post-care check-ins, we’ll help you feel seen and supported every step of the way.
Why Choose Rivers + West for Special Needs Dentistry?
- Long-standing local presence: Trusted by generations of Mount Pleasant families
- Highly credentialed providers with experience in sedation, anxiety care, and special accommodations
- Ranked as a Top Patient-Rated Dentist by Find Local Doctors
- Convenient location near downtown Mount Pleasant, minutes from Shem Creek and the Ravenel Bridge
- No-pressure consultations that focus on your well-being, not upsells
We’re proud to serve our neighbors in a space where care feels personal, not clinical.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do you offer sedation options for patients with severe dental anxiety?
A: Yes. We offer nitrous oxide and will work closely with you to assess whether additional sedation options may be appropriate. All sedation is monitored by trained professionals.
Q: Can you accommodate patients who need longer appointment times due to anxiety or gag reflex?
A: Absolutely. We regularly schedule appointments with extra time for patients who need a slower pace and more breaks to feel comfortable.
Q: Is it safe to delay dental care due to fear or discomfort?
A: Unfortunately, delaying care can increase the risk of infections, tooth loss, and even systemic health issues. That’s why we focus on gentle prevention in a calm, respectful setting.
Q: What should I expect during my first visit if I have special needs?
A: You’ll start with a no-pressure consultation where we discuss your experiences, concerns, and preferences. We’ll then work together to create a treatment plan that supports your goals and comfort.
Let’s Make Dental Care Possible—Together
You deserve high-quality care in an environment that respects your boundaries. At Rivers + West Family Dentistry, we take pride in helping patients across Mount Pleasant and the Charleston area rediscover their confidence in oral care. Call us or schedule your visit online today. We’ll take it one step at a time, together.