Monday, January 23, 2012

Top Ten Reasons Why People Hate the Dentist...and How We Are Changing That!

The Needle!

Fear of needles and injections is HUGE for some people. It's also one of the biggest adult phobias and children are even more fearful.  With the use of a numbing topical and slowly administering the anesthetic, our patients barely notice or even know that we are actually getting them numb!

The Pain!

Dentistry should be comfortable and easy.  We make it that way at Fenton Family Dentistry!  Not only do we offer laughing gas for FREE, we also offer music or a dvd to watch and blankets.  If at any time a patient feels discomfort, they are asked to simply raise their hand and we will happily administer more anesthetic (to the already numb spot - so again, no pain).  We have actually had many patients fall asleep during their procedures!

The Anxiety!

This has to be the worst part.  Anxiety is that sense of dread and general apprehension before and during an appointment.  Anxiety puts you on edge, compounds the ordeal and you’re left completely drained by it.  Even if there isn’t any pain involved, it’s the threat of pain and other triggers of fear that build up the anxiety and make for a miserable experience.  Some people can’t sleep properly the night before their appointment.  That's why we offer a mild anti-anxiety medication by prescription for those patients who truly need it.  Just take one before bedtime so you can sleep and another about 30 minutes before your appointment.  Patients who choose this option must have a driver.

The Drill!

Some people are generally alright with everything except for the dental drill.  With all the noise vibration and spray, this becomes a focus for anxiety. When they hear that sound, their sweat starts to pour.  Thankfully the newer ones are much quieter and smoother than those old brain-rattling ones. Inside your mouth, sounds tend to be amplified. Earphones with music or a movie help block out the sound so you can almost pretend you’re laying back on the beach.


The Invasiveness!

Denistry is invasive.  We are inside your mouth, poking and prodding and this can feel like an invasion of your personal space.  We do our best to be graceful, gentle and respectful about your care.  The last thing we want is for you to feel violated by dental treatment.

 
The Sounds & Smells!

Many people are more anxious due to the sounds and smells.  Our office not only looks like home, but is filled with relaxing candle scents just like home.  And although the sounds are minor, music or dvd's will help.  We even encourage our patients to bring their own music or movie, if preferred.


The Cost!

What seems reasonable to one patient seems astronomical to another.  Everyone appreciates exceptional care, but some for some patients even basic dental care isn't affordable.  We are happy to accept Care Credit (which offers no interest plans for 12 months) as well as accepting most insurance plans, our office is one of the very few in the St. Louis area that accepts STL Dental Plan, which anyone can obtain for a low yearly fee of only $120 per person.  This plan alone can lower your dental fees by 30% or more.  Additionally, even if you need major work, we will do our best to prioritize your treatment so you can break it up into smaller, more manageable payments.  Generally patients don't see their dental health as a necessity, we try to show our patients the necessity of their treatment with xrays, pictures and clear explanations.


The Lectures!

Some patients feel guilty or embarrassed about their dental situation.  We are not here to judge, but rather to help you feel better about yourself and your health.  We will not lecture or scold, but choose to empower you with knowledge and help you obtain the smile you've always wanted.  


The Poor Service!
Everybody promises great service, we actually provide it.  From the moment you walk in the door you'll be greeted with prompt friendly service.  We have a great reputation, and are happy to display our reviews on our facebook review page.  Our wait time is minimal, if any, our doctors are well educated, highly experienced and top-notch and our entire team is extremely skilled and knowledgeable. 

The Bad Memories!

So many patients have had bad experiences and bad memories of prior dentists visits that they simply can't imagine a dental visit without another bad experience.  We're here to stop the nightmares!   We allow our patients to be in control.  You control your visits, your costs, your preference of what relaxant is needed for a comfortable visit, etc.  You are in control, so no more bad memories!

Give Fenton Family Dentistry and Dr. Jessica Nieva a call when you're ready for dental care.  All those fears will be a thing of the past and we look forward to taking care of you and your family for many years to come! 

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

CONGRATULATIONS DR. NIEVA AND ABRAM!!

If you haven't heard the wonderful news yet, we'd like to formally announce the BIG NEWS!

DR. NIEVA IS EXPECTING HER 3RD BABY IN JUNE! 

We are all so excited that her and Abe will be adding to their already beautiful family.  Speaking of beautiful family, have you seen Alex and Annabella lately?  So gorgeous...




We all cannot wait to welcome the new addition to our Fenton Family Dentistry Team!  Again, Congrats!


Monday, December 12, 2011

Help us save lives this Thursday!

Thursday, December 15th from 11:00 - 3:00 Fenton Family Dentistry will be sponsoring our annual Blood Drive.  This is a really important event and we are hoping for an even better turnout than last year.  Please do what you can to stop by and donate.  And, as an added bonus, we are offering 1/2 off laser whitening for everyone who donates blood as a way to say "Thank you". 

For more information or to make an appointment, just click on the link below.

https://www.bloodcenterimpact.org/index.cfm?group=op&expand=16838&zc=63026#.TrljL2ud4cw.facebook


Again, thank you for helping us make this holiday season a great one for so many!

Dr. Jessica Nieva and the FFD Team

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

We're so proud of our Team, we wanted to brag about them...

You've already heard a bit about our doctor, Jessica Nieva, now meet our fabulous team:






Hi, I'm Abram (Abe), the Treasurer of Jessica C. Nieva DDS, P.C., Co-CEO of A & A Dental Advisors, L.L.C. (A Local Dental Professional Education Business), and an Independent Consultant for area Dentists.  I have been around the business of dentistry nearly my whole life.  My father owned a very successful dental supply and equipment company in Springfield, MO for many years, where he worked with dentists and their staff to improve dental care.  In my time at this office, I am dedicated to making sure that the patients' experiences are rewarding.  For fun, Abe enjoys golfing, wishing he was a race car driver, and spending time with his wife and two beautiful daughters.








Hi, I'm Denise, the Office Manager for Dr. Nieva.  With over 15 years experience as a manager for both orthodontic and general dentistry offices, I have a passion for all aspects of the dental field.  Aside from patient care, I also love numbers and anything financial.  When I'm not paying bills or doing treatment plans, you can bet I'm working on marketing and fun events for the patients!  I feel very lucky to have found this office and have the opportunity to work for a doctor as passionate about dentistry as Dr. Nieva!  My husband, Mike and I live in St. Peters and have 3 children, a daughter-in-law, a son-in-law-to-be and 2 grand dogs (patiently waiting for grandkids)!  I love trying new recipes, party planning and spending time with my family.






Hi, I'm Cara, the Patient Care Coordinator for Dr. Nieva.  I graduated from Missouri College in 2006 as a Certified Dental Assistant and am a member of the American Dental Assistants Association.  With a background in dentistry of over 5 years, I am here to help the patients in any way I can, from understanding their insurance benefits to arranging an appointment that best suits their busy schedule.  I love people and feel a sense of satisfaction when I am able to help our patients find a way to afford the dental treatment they need and want.   In my spare time I love to cook, work out and relax at home with my husband, whom I lovingly refer to as "Stud Muffin Mr. P"!





Hi, I'm Gina, one of Fenton Family Dentistry's Registered Dental HygienistI have an Associate's Degree from Forest Park Community College and am honored to work with Dr. Nieva as well as all of the other team members.  I am a member of the Greater St. Louis Dental Hygiene Association, the Missouri Dental Hygiene Association and the American Dental Hygiene Association.  I have always wanted to work in the dental profession and feel my career is not only rewarding, but also exciting.  My passion is making patients smile as well as helping them achieve an excellent standard of oral health through education and support.  
I enjoy spending time with my family and my cocker spaniel, Jack.  I am enrolled at UMKC and working towards a bachelor's degree in dental hygiene and excited to become a positive influence on the dental hygiene community.  



Hi, I'm Mary Anne, one of Fenton Family Dentistry's Registered Dental Hygienists.  I grew up in St. Louis and am the youngest of seven kids.  I've always known I wanted to work in the dental field, as my father is a dentist and I always admired his work.  After attending John F. Kennedy Catholic High School, where I met my husband, we both attended Missouri State University.  I obtained a Bachelor's degree in Biology and later went to Dental Hygiene school at Forest Park Community College, allowing me to do what I love most!  In my spare time I enjoy playing indoor soccer and spending time with my husband and my Goldendoodle, Charlie Mac!





Hi, I'm Candace, Dr. Nieva's dental assistant.  I was born and raised in Iowa, but moved to the St. Louis area 8 years ago.  I graduated from Missouri College in 2006 as a Certified Dental Assistant and have furthered my education in the dental field by receiving my Expanded Functions in Restorative and Prosthetics certification.  Additionally, I am certified by the State of Missouri to monitor Nitrous Oxide-Oxygen Analgesia.  Although I have worked in several areas of the dental field, I enjoy assisting the best Doctor ever and interacting with the patients.  My concern is that the patients are well informed and all their needs are met.  I enjoy spending time with my husband and 3 kids.  I  also love the Cubs and am a huge Blues fan!




Candice is our newest member, she is also a dental assistant!  Her bio and photo will be posted soon, however we have some team photos (Cassie is on the far right):




Saturday, November 12, 2011

Top 10 Reasons To Give Us a Try!

Looking for a new dental office?  Tired of waiting to be seen?  Tired of taking off work or school for your appointments?  Have anxiety about seeing the dentist?  Check out our Top 10 Reasons (in no particular order of importance) you should be coming to Fenton Family Dentistry! 



1)  Dr. Nieva - Not only are her skills and experience top notch, she brings much more to the dental experience.  From general dentistry to full veneers, she can do it all!  Dr. Nieva's  outgoing and caring personality makes her patients feel like family.  She loves DENTISTRY and the smile on her face will lighten anyone's mood in an instant.  And if you happen to be hearing impaired and need to communicate with sign language, she is able to do that as well!



2)  Atmosphere - Dr. Nieva has personally designed her office to have a warm, comfortable feel.  Instead of walking into a stuffy office, imagine walking into your friend's living room.  The aromatherapy scents and smell of fresh ground coffee is all you will notice, no dental smell here. 



3)  Advanced Technology - Our office uses all the latest technology to better diagnose your treatment.   Digital xrays, intraoral pictures of your teeth and SoPro technology will give you a complete look at your oral health as the doctor explains your dental needs.  Additionally, we are able to confirm your appointment or provide valuable information regarding our practice's events and specials via email and texts.  We use our website, Facebook and Twitter to keep our patient's informed as well.



4)  Family is Our Middle Name - At Fenton Family Dentistry, we take the word family seriously.  There is no need to run all over town to each family member's doctors, we are happy to see all ages, from 1 to 100!  Our doctor and hygienists are super kid friendly and use all the best techniques and videos to calm and empower your child.  Before your child starts his/her appointment they will watch a fun video that explains everything that will be done during their visit.  After the appointment they will get to pick a toy from the treasure chest, along with their tooth brushing accessories and fun glasses!



5)  No Reason to Be Nervous - We understand that many people stay away from the dentist due to fear or anxiety.  We have done our best to make that fear a thing of the past.  In addition to our homey atmosphere, no dental smell and friendly team members, we offer comfy blankets, movies or music and FREE nitrous (laughing gas) to calm your nerves.  We have had many patients even fall asleep during their procedures!  How's that for comfort and anxiety-free?



6)  Knowledgeable, Skilled and Friendly Team - Dr. Nieva goes to great lengths to hire the most skilled, experienced and friendly staff.  Her interview process is done over a 14 day period to allow time to make sure that each team member is a great fit!  Each team member is encouraged to keep up with the latest technology and education available, at her expense.  The team members are happy to answer all your questions and take a personal interest in each patient's needs.  To top it off, we greet each patient by name when they walk in the door.  Even if we've never met you, chances are it will still happen!



7)  Fun and Charitable - Each month our office has great contests, events and donates to different charities.  All our kids without cavities can enter our "No Cavity Club" and have their name entered into a drawing each month for great prizes.  Their pictures are also displayed on our office "patient board".  We have picture drawing contests, costume contests, etc.  We love to involve our patients in helping us give to local charities, such as the National Breast Cancer Foundation, the Circle of Concern and the Missouri Valley Blood Center.  Come check out our office and join the Fun!



8)  Convenient Hours - Unlike most medical or dental offices, we ARE open early mornings, evenings and Saturdays.  We will do whatever we can to accommodate your work or school schedule.  Due to the huge amount of requests we get for these hours, it may take a couple weeks to accommodate, however if you are able to make a late morning or mid day appointment, we can get you scheduled almost immediately AND all emergencies are seen the same day!



9)  No Waiting - Tired of waiting in the reception area at your doctor or dentist's office?  That won't happen at Fenton Family Dentistry.  We pride ourselves on being on time, all the time!  We know your time is valuable and you have better things to do than wait.  More often than not, you will barely have a chance to sit down with your favorite magazine!



10)  Treatment Fees - Our fees are competitive and reasonable compared to most dental offices in the St. Louis area.  Even without dental insurance you can afford your dental treatment.  If you have extensive work that needs to be completed, we are happy to offer 3rd party financing options and will do our best to customize your treatment plan in a way that you can truly afford it.


11)  CHECK OUT OUR REVIEWS! and see for yourself how our patients feel about us!


 
Well, there it is...10 (plus a Bonus) reasons to try our office.  Also check out our website at www.fenton-familydentistry.com for much more information about our office, team, treatment, before and after pics and more.


Next blog...Meet Our Team!

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Our Mission Statement

Fenton Family Dentistry has a commitment to our community to provide honest, caring, and trustworthy services. Our mission is to provide quality dental care in the highest state-of-the-art environment coupled with careful attention to detail and deep personal respect. Dental treatment is delivered using the latest, most appropriate techniques, along with the very best of dental materials. Our aim is to care for our patients as a whole -- not just their teeth. Our goal is to attain optimal oral and physical well being for every patient. We aim to provide an environment that is warm and inviting, safe, and sterile. In addition, we take special interest in assisting the fearful patient, who may have had difficulty in the past, and may be avoiding dental attention. We strive for excellence in our patient care starting with the first point of contact. Our care is motivated by the realization that a healthy, beautiful smile affects a person's confidence and outlook which will also affect their quality of life.

Friday, November 4, 2011

Fenton Family Dentistry Charitable Events

Dr. Nieva and the Fenton Family Dentistry Team are always looking for great organizations to help out.  Last month was the National Breast Cancer Foundation, this month is the Circle of Concern Charity and next month is the Mississippi Valley Blood Drive.

Starting November 1, 2011 we will be collecting canned and non-perishable goods for our November Food Drive.  All donations will go to the Circle of Concern, a non profit organization feeding the hungry and providing long-term and emergency assistance to low income families in the western St. Louis County.  Their current needs are: cereal, canned meat & tuna, canned pasta, paper towels, pudding, jello, canned fruit, peanut butter and shampoo.



If you would like to help us feed the needy this holiday season, please bring one of these items to your next appointment.  Even if you're not a current patient of Dr. Nieva's, we'd love to have your help.  Stop by any time during our normal business hours. 

The Fenton Family Dentistry Team thanks you in advance for your generosity!

Check out our website for more information at http://www.fenton-familydentistry.com/about-our-office/upcoming-events/

Fenton Family Dentistry
552 Old Smizer Mill Road
Fenton, MO 63026
636.326.7633