This time of year always has me thinking about all the wonderful people we have seen as patients. Many of these came to us after going for a number of years, even decades, without seeing a dentist. Most had avoided dental care for so long because of a fear of dentistry.

As a Periodontist, I cannot imagine treating someone who is in pain because of my hands. While many people who have dental fears are forced into care because of a painful dental problem, our office is not only dedicated to restoring their mouth to good health, but doing so in a gentle and comfortable manner.

In addition to being committed to providing your care in comfort, we are also very respectful to our patients. We realize that, for many, it takes a great deal of courage to even walk into our reception area. Regardless of how long it’s been since seeing a dentist, ALL of our patients are given ‘red carpet’ treatment.

The only reason we exist is to provide care for our patients. Providing that care to the highest standards with respect to each individual in a manner that is comfortable and pleasant is our commitment to you!

I hope this coming year will bring you many smiles, ones that are healthy and worry-free!

As a Periodontist, I see a wide variety of mouths. Some folks have poor oral health and missing teeth because of dental fears. Some grew up not having access to good dental care or understanding its importance. Because of genetics, some were born with an oral health that would always pose challenges.

When a patient’s oral health suffers, regardless of the reason, the result, far too often, is tooth loss. No one can predict the frustration and discomfort that dentures can cause until they’ve been a long-time denture wearer. Denture problems include sore spots on tender gums, difficultly biting and chewing, embarrassment from slips, speech problems, and being self-conscious in social settings.

This is why I recommend Dental Implants. Because Dental Implants are held in the jaw bone, just as natural tooth roots, they restore stability. This means you can eat and laugh without fear of slips, chew comfortably, and feel confident in close settings with others. Plus, Dental Implants are designed to last your lifetime, making them an excellent investment.

For those who are missing natural teeth, Dental Implants provide a dependable, lasting way to have teeth that are “part of you” again. Arrange a consultation by calling (828) 274-9440. During this time, I’ll explain the types that are appropriate for your needs and answer your questions. You just may find yourself enjoying a confident new smile by Christmas!

It is estimated that nearly 75% of adults in the U.S. have had a fear of the dentist at some point. One of the most common of all phobias, dental fear is also known as odontophobia. Interestingly, women seem to have dental fear more than men.

We see a number of fearful patients, most who have developed some level of gum disease over time. Helping to restore their oral health begins with an appointment where we discuss their concerns in our consultation room. Some people will share what sparked their dental fears in the first place, while a few don’t remember what prompted their fears. Regardless, I listen and then describe ways we can ensure their comfort throughout treatment.

Often, patients will request to have Oral Sedation along with their treatment. This is in pill form and taken prior to arriving at our office. By the time the patient arrives, they are very relaxed. Once the full effect of the medication has them in a totally relaxed state, we administer numbing medications and begin dental care.

Oral Sedation is safe and recovery is quick. It also leaves no memory of treatment afterwards for most. Some may recall hearing my voice during treatment, but that’s typically all they remember.

If you have dental anxiety, or you know someone who has intense fear when it comes to dental visits, please know that our friendly phone staff are experienced in speaking with fearful individuals. At all times, whether on the phone or in our office, you’ll be treated respectfully and warmly. We look forward to creating a comfortable, pleasant experience for you.

It’s not unusual to see new patients who have developed periodontal (gum) disease because they haven’t been to a dentist for years – some, for over a decade. Quite a few have avoided dental care due to having a fear associated with dentistry. This is often the result of a traumatic past experience in a dental chair, and frequently experienced as a child. Their fears are deep-rooted and, just like shivering in the cold, something they cannot control.

My first goal is to help these individuals have the treatment they need. We begin with a conversation that allows them to share their fears and concerns. I am committed to the comfort and safety of my patients at every visit and reassure them that they can always stop me if they feel anything or just want to take a break during treatment.

Many of these patients prefer to add oral sedation to their treatment. This is in pill form and taken prior to arrival at our office. Once here, they are in a relaxed state. We begin treatment only when the patient is totally relaxed. While patients are in such a relaxed state, they are not aware of any portion of the procedure, often until it’s completed and we arouse them.

Oral sedation leaves little or no memory of the procedure afterwards and recovery is quick. It is also safe, although we make sure you are monitored throughout the procedure. Some patients return home for a brief nap, but most feel rested and refreshed after several hours.

My next goal is to help this patient become confident in my care, enough so that he or she will eventually overcome their dental fears. Ideally, we want them to see that dental care is a positive part of their overall health, which it is!

I occasionally have patients who, after experiencing the relaxed feeling of Oral Sedation, tell me they no longer need it. This is music to my ears, since it indicates that this person now feels comfortable and confident in our hands!

Your first step to a healthy mouth begins with a friendly phone call. Call us at (828) 274-9440 to arrange a consultation. This will be just a conversation to begin with, and then you can decide how to proceed. And, please know you will not be judged for your fears or delay of dental care. We are here to help you, and you will be respected regardless of your individual situation.