It’s OK To Be Nervous

Are you postponing an upcoming hygiene examination or recommended treatment due to nerves, or are you nervous about an upcoming scheduled treatment? Believe me, I totally get how you feel. You may be surprised to learn that even I experience nerves before I visit the dentist. I want you to know that your feelings are valid, but receiving dental care is also important for your overall health. Being a dentist who practices holistic and green dentistry, I want to share some natural ways that I try to ensure my patients feel comfortable while in my office. Read on to learn more.

Build a Relationship

When I know that a patient is having nervous feelings I make it my priority to build a connection with the patient. We speak face-to-face, and I want them to feel comfortable expressing their feelings to me. I feel it is important to understand a patient’s dental history and why they may be feeling the way they do. Oftentimes, a prior unpleasant experience is the root cause of their dental anxiety. Once the cause of fear is recognized, we create a plan to help move away from the fear so we can make dentistry an easy part of your life.

Office Comforts

My goal has always been for my office to be a place of comfort, not a place of fear. One way I do this is through a comfort menu. We offer patients comforting items such as relaxing music, noise canceling headphones, warm neck wraps, aromatherapy, and even relaxing teas. I want my patients to be relaxed when they are in my office and know they are completely safe while in my care.

If you are in need of an appointment, but are feeling some nerves, I encourage you to be honest with my team when you call to schedule an appointment. We want to be there for you every step of the way to make sure you are feeling comfortable. I look forward to seeing you in my San Francisco, CA office soon!