Gentle, Anxiety-Aware Dental Hygiene in Langley: Science, Sensitivity & Integrated Care
At Near Me Therapy in Langley, BC, we understand that oral health and emotional wellness are deeply connected. Many people delay or avoid dental hygiene appointments or teeth cleanings not out of neglect, but because of anxiety, fear, or past trauma. Our mission is to help patients feel safe, informed, and supported — from the moment they walk in to the moment they leave.
Led by Kamelia Bahrini, BDSc RDH DHP, an independent dental hygiene practitioner with over 20 years of clinical experience, our approach combines science, empathy, and individualized care. Kamelia’s training through the University of British Columbia’s Dental Hygiene Program emphasizes evidence-based, holistic, and behavioural-science–grounded care. She continues to align her practice with the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA). publishers of the peer-reviewed Canadian Journal of Dental Hygiene and supports the Canadian Foundation for Dental Hygiene Research & Education (CFDHRE).
The Science Behind Dental Anxiety and Oral Health
Scientific research consistently links mental health with oral health outcomes. Did you know that anxiety, depression, and PTSD are associated with higher rates of gum disease, tooth decay, and dry mouth especially after COVID-19 entered our lives? Furthermore, pre-dental treatment anxiety can be present in one third of patients with recommendations to improve recognition and improved management strategies. Other Clinical and epidemiological studies show that patients with higher dental fear or anxiety often present with increased plaque levels, bleeding, gingival inflammation, and worse periodontal indices — a pattern consistent with avoiding or postponing routine care over time.
The well-known “vicious cycle” model of dental anxiety explains how fear leads to avoidance, worsening disease, and the need for more invasive treatment — which further reinforces fear. At Near Me Therapy, we work to break that cycle through gentle communication, patient choice, and trauma-informed care.
Integrative Care for the Mind and Body
Dental anxiety doesn’t only affect your mouth — it often shows up throughout the body as jaw tension, headaches, clenching, or shoulder tightness. Our interdisciplinary team includes:
Clinical Counseling, offering breath-work, grounding, and desensitization strategies to reduce anxiety before and during hygiene visits.
Registered Massage Therapy (RMT), helping release tension from the jaw, neck, and shoulders caused by clenching or stress.
Chiropractic Care, improving joint alignment, reducing muscle tightness, and helping restore calm movement patterns.
Acupuncture, shown in research to reduce cortisol levels and help regulate the nervous system for patients with chronic stress or anxiety.
By combining these approaches, Near Me Therapy provides whole-body support — easing both emotional and physical stress responses related to dental fear.
How We Create a Calm Experience
Every hygiene visit is designed around predictability, comfort, and patient control. We explain every step, take breaks when needed, and create a quiet, low-stimulation environment that is spa-like, serene and welcoming. Our equipment is modern and low-noise, and our sessions are never rushed.
Our goal is simple: to make oral health accessible for everyone — including those who have avoided it for years due to anxiety or sensory sensitivities.
What We Offer
Calm, Serene treatment environment, with treatments that are non-rushed, and pain management options to make the experience far better.
Comprehensive oral assessments and oral cancer screenings
Scaling and root planing for gum health
Fluoride and desensitizing treatments for sensitivity
Digital X-rays and diagnostic imaging
Personalized home-care plans tailored to anxiety, ADHD, or depression
Why Langley BC and Surrey BC Patients Choose Near Me Therapy
Trauma-informed and anxiety-aware dental hygiene care
Over 20 years of education and clinical experience
Integration of counselling, massage therapy, chiropractic, and acupuncture
Extended appointment times in a calm, private setting
Convenient location in Langley, serving Surrey and the Fraser Valley
At Near Me Therapy, we believe dental hygiene should promote proactivity and desirable — not stressful. Your care is personal, your comfort is the priority, and your well-being is our shared focus.
