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!