The practice of dentistry almost defines the origin of civilization itself. However, dentistry has left its old days of performing extractions without anesthetics to horror movies and filling teeth with beeswax to museum anecdotes. Modern dentistry is, as it should be, evidence-based and patient-centered. Like all other facets of healthcare, technology has been a defining force in shaping new best practices and approaches to treatments. However, sometimes, the simplest solutions made by an observant and caring provider is the best. Some dental offices have gone above and beyond to tackle pertinent issues today, like dental-phobia and controversies in treatment procedures.
Dogs have been used for work in various fields and as companion animals for a very long time. The best of those two worlds are found in therapy dogs. Pet Partners, for instance, is an example of a national program that has brought trained therapy dogs to facilities all over the country. Many dental offices have utilized these loving animals to their benefits due to the ubiquitous research proving that animal comfort “reduces blood pressure, lowers stress and anxiety levels and stimulates the release of endorphins which make people feel good.” Molly from Applewood Family Dental in Minnesota and Remmy from Dr. Mark Burhenne’s dental office in Sunnyvale are such practices. This is a simple solution that will transform the experiences of adults and children alike. By redefining and making new and positive associations with dentists, this fear can be fought off.
Man being comforted by a dog.
Image source: Jamie Garbutt
Imagine getting a complementary massage before getting into a leather chair with heating functions to have your oral health examined and treatments performed by a licensed dentist. But that’s not the best part! After your dentist parts with you, you get to indulge in additional waxing and grooming services. This is another novelty in competitive dental offices today. The incorporation of spa services pampers the patients to the point of complete relaxation, combined with quality dental care. Serenity Dental Spa in San Francisco and Cerulean Dental Spa in Santa Clara are examples of such dental offices. Taking care of your teeth and oral health does not have to be another chore – this could be a time where you unwind and treat yourself out. Show yourself some love!
Would you ever consider using hypnosis over anesthesia? Whether it is because of medical conditions or personal beliefs, hypnosis is an alternative to reducing pain. The mind is the most powerful organ for human beings, and controls our very existential experiences. An anticipation of pain and the presence of intense anxiety is no doubt a great contributor to a negative experience. In a 2013 case-study of this controversial topic, it was found that hypnosis resulted in less operative and post-operative pain than lidocaine. Verona Smiles is an example of a dental office that provides this service. The efficacy of hypnosis is limited or intensified on a case-by-case basis. Everyone is different, and when it comes to the mind, the differences are even greater. However, being open-minded to new possibilities have never ceased to amaze me, so don’t let your previous experience define your future experiences!
Being healthy is much more than just an absence of disease ailments; it is also about having a sense of control in your health. Holistic and alternative care has been more than a fad, as there are methods that are based on modern science and thousands of years of clinical practice. Does your dental office provide free toothbrushes? How about chewing sticks? This 9,000 year old method all the way from Babylonia for cleaning teeth has been supported by the scientific community to have a similar effectiveness for reducing plaque and gingivitis as a toothbrush, with an additional benefit of having anti-microbial characteristics. How about fluoride? While there are unarguable truths to its benefits, many people remain hesitant. However, don’t let this affect your oral health. There are alternatives. For example, chitosan reduces erosion of enamel and harmful bacteria and is often used as an ingredient in alternative toothpastes.
These new approaches of dentistry are of utmost importance for patients with anxiety and heart problems, as it redefines dental experiences for them. Your oral health cannot be forsaken, but you should not have to compromise for quality care, service and personal comfort either. There is a solution!
