If the thought of sitting in a dental chair makes your heart race, we understand. Our entire team is trained to care for anxious and phobic patients with empathy, patience, and clinical options that let you receive the care you need — comfortably.

Nervous patients welcome
Comfort options for every visit
According to the American Dental Association, approximately 36% of Americans experience dental anxiety, and 12% suffer from dental phobia — an intense, often debilitating fear that prevents them from seeking care entirely. If you are in either group, you are far from alone.
Dental anxiety often follows a predictable cycle: fear leads to avoidance, avoidance leads to worsening oral health, and worsening conditions create more reasons to feel afraid. The result is that the patients who need care the most are often the ones who delay it the longest.
At Innova Smiles, we break that cycle. We do not rush. We do not judge. And we have the clinical tools — from nitrous oxide to DentalVibe vibration anesthesia — to ensure that every patient can receive care at a comfort level that works for them.
of Americans have dental anxiety
experience dental phobia
of our patients feel welcome
Six techniques we use to make every visit comfortable and stress-free.
We explain every step before we do it. No surprises, no sudden movements. You stay informed and in control throughout your appointment.
Mild, inhaled relaxation that takes effect in minutes and wears off just as quickly. Safe for all ages. You remain fully conscious but deeply relaxed.
Gentle vibration technology blocks needle discomfort at the injection site, making the numbing process virtually painless. Ideal for patients who dread needles.
Bring your own music or use ours. Block out clinical sounds and focus on what makes you comfortable. We also offer streaming on Samsung Frame TVs.
A hot towel for every patient, espressos, juice, and weighted blankets for those with high anxiety. Our treatment suites feel more like a spa than a dental office.
Raise your hand at any time and we pause immediately. You set the pace. There is never a moment when you are not in complete control.
A step-by-step look at how we make your first appointment as stress-free as possible.
No exam on day one if you are not ready. We start with a conversation — your fears, your past experiences, and what would make you feel safe.
See the space, meet the team, and sit in the chair on your own terms. Familiarity reduces fear.
We discuss comfort options and amenities so you can decide what feels right before any clinical work begins.
Short appointments. Frequent breaks. Hand signal control. We move only as fast as you allow.
Every visit is progress. We acknowledge your courage and make sure you leave feeling proud of the step you took.

Innova Smiles was designed with anxious patients in mind. Our treatment suites are private, softly lit with natural light, and outfitted with warm colors and modern finishes that feel nothing like a traditional dental office. There is no clinical smell, no harsh fluorescent lighting, and no crowded waiting room.
Each suite features noise-canceling headphones, Samsung Frame TVs, and a hot towel for every patient. We offer espressos, juice, and weighted blankets for patients with high anxiety, and our team greets every patient by name.
Three tiers so you can choose the level of relaxation that's right for you.
Mild Relaxation
Needle-Free Comfort
Maximum Calm
Real experiences from patients who overcame their dental anxiety.
“I avoided the dentist for 8 years because of my anxiety. From the moment I walked into Innova Smiles, the team made me feel safe. Dr. Fatima explained everything before she did it, and I used the nitrous oxide for the first time — I honestly could not believe how calm I felt. I have been back three times now and actually look forward to my visits.”
Your care is led by Dr. Ambereen Fatima, D.D.S. — Fellow, ICOI (FICOI) · Fellow, AAIP (FAAIP)
Among fewer than 3% of U.S. dentists with dual implant fellowships
Medically reviewed by Dr. Ambereen Fatima, D.D.S. — FICOI · FAAIP
We offer two primary comfort options to match your needs. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is mild and wears off within minutes — ideal for mild to moderate anxiety. DentalVibe vibration anesthesia uses gentle vibration to block needle discomfort, making injections virtually painless. Combined with premium topical anesthetics, these options ensure a completely comfortable experience. We will recommend the right approach during your consultation.
In-depth guides to help you feel confident about your dental care.
Conveniently located in Marlborough, MA, we serve patients from Gleasondale, Cordaville, Nobscot, and surrounding communities.
You do not need to be brave. You just need to call. Our team will handle the rest — at your pace, with options that keep you comfortable every step of the way.
Comfort options available for every appointment type