Extra Measures Taken For Fearful Patients’ First Visits

Posted on Aug 06, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

At our periodontal office, we feel all of our patients are special. However, we understand that some have special needs, such as those who have dental fears or severe dental phobias. As a specialty practice who helps restore people to healthy, confident smiles, we understand how fear can prevent adults from receiving the dental care they need. For this reason, we’ve incorporated extra steps on their behalf to make their first visit especially comfortable and less intimidating.

One measure is to ensure waiting time is kept to a minimum. Although we occasionally have unexpected delays, we have an excellent reputation for running on schedule and keep a close eye on this, in particular, when a fearful patient arrives.

For some patients, we can begin with a comfortable conversation in our Consultation Room. This is away from the clinical side of the practice so there are no noises or smells that will add to a newcomer’s anxiety. This room has no treatment chairs or instruments. We simply begin with a friendly conversation and discuss your concerns and what you’d like to accomplish with your oral health. I’ll explain our comfort options and answer your questions thoroughly.

When patients are seen, we can provide relaxation medication so, by the time you arrive, you’ll be in a very relaxed state. As much as is practical, we keep tools and equipment either covered or removed until you are in a totally relaxed state. We apply numbing medications to the areas being treated after you are in this tranquil state. Throughout your care, you are monitored by a trained staff member to ensure your safety and comfort. Afterward, you will likely have little or no memory of your treatment.

In many cases, patients return to us feeling they need no additional medications for treatment other than standard numbing. They realize we will not hurt them, knowing their comfort here is a priority.

For more about regaining a healthy smile, call (828) 274-9440 and speak with a friendly staff member. She can also arrange a consultation appointment so we can meet personally.

Don’t Let Dental Fear Keep You From A Healthy Smile

Posted on Jul 09, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

As a Periodontist, I see a large number of adults who have developed periodontal (gum) disease. Yet, it never surprises me when I meet a new patient who has arrived because their problems stemmed from avoiding dental care due to fear.

While fear of dentistry affects an estimated 75% of the U.S. adult population, nearly 10% are categorized as “dental phobics.” These are adults who have such a severe level of dental fear that they avoid going to a dentist until it’s no longer a choice, but a dire necessity.

Most often, we discover this fear has resulted from a traumatic dental experience in the past. Over the years, I’ve heard some appalling tales. Many felt ‘pinned down’ in a treatment chair while a dentist worked on them even though they were in pain. Some say it’s the noises and smells that conjure up a perception of pain even before anything is done.

A few have shared that they feel unable to breath during dental treatment. Because breathing through the nose is necessary during many procedures, this causes some to feel ‘suffocated.’

A comfort option that has helped many to overcome their fear is Oral Sedation. This is a pill that is swallowed at home so they are relaxed by the time they arrive at our office. This helps them to walk in without the anxiety they would typically experience. By the time we begin treatment, they are totally relaxed and often snooze in and out while in the chair.

This typically erases most memory of the procedure afterward. It also allows us to apply numbing medications without the patient being aware of having injections at all.

Once patients have Oral Sedation, they often return and feel they no longer need this type of relaxation. In most cases, when a foundation of trust has been formed, they relax on their own. Until that time, however, we move at a pace that is best for each individual.

If you’re ready to “take that step” to a healthier, more attractive smile, let’s begin with a consultation. This will take place in our Consultation Room, which is a relaxed setting away from the clinical side of the office. From there, you can decide how you’d like to proceed. Call (828) 274-9440 to speak with one of our friendly staff members.

Your Comfort Is Important To Us

Posted on Jun 27, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

As a Periodontal Specialist, I’ve seen many patients over the years who have acquired gum disease, with a large percentage due to an inability to have regular dental visits. Although high fear patients may have a diligent oral hygiene regimen at home, those 6-month check-ups and cleanings help to remove plaque build-up that is impossible to brush or floss away.

It saddens me to hear these patients, many of whom are on the verge of losing natural teeth due to gum disease, share tales of torture in the dental chair because of an uncaring dentist. Some are brought to tears as they recall the pain and helpless feeling that has caused such trauma that they come to avoid dental visits altogether.

While there is no ‘guarantee’ that you’ll never feel ‘anything’ during treatment in our hands, we do assure you that YOU are in control. I will stop anytime you feel uneasy or a sensation that has you worried. I can also provide an oral sedation, which is taken prior to your appointment. This will relax you and relieve tension during your treatment, although you’ll still be able to respond to requests, such as “Turn your head a little towards me,” for example. Even with oral sedation, we administer numbing medication to the areas being treated so you will never have discomfort.

Usually, patients relax just by realizing their comfort is a priority here. This is helpful to many, in itself. However, it’s important to us that each patient move at a pace that is comfortable. Often, we begin with a consultation that allows us to discuss their concerns face-to-face in a comfy consultation room. This room is away from the clinical side of the practice and is a living room setting. From there, patients can decide when and if they are ready to proceed.

Today’s dentistry should never have you ‘in pain.’ If you have avoided dental care due to fear, you likely have some level of periodontal disease. Let’s restore your oral health and help you resume a relationship for oral care in an environment that becomes a positive part of a healthier lifestyle. Call (828) 274-9440 for a consultation for yourself or someone whose smile you love!

We Are Committed To Your Comfort

Posted on Apr 16, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

As a Periodontist, I cannot imagine hurting a patient. Even more, I cannot fathom why a Dentist would continue to work on a patient they can see is in pain. Yet, from the horror stories I have heard, it’s no wonder gum disease is so rampant since many end up avoiding dental care for years.

While I’ve always been committed to providing exceptional results and healthy smiles, I also know that procedures can be performed without the patient experiencing pain. For fearful patients, most do fine with Oral Sedation, which requires no needles to administer and has a quick recovery. Once patients realize they can trust me to prevent any discomfort throughout their procedure, some even opt for standard numbing.

A healthy smile is an important part of one’s overall health and well-being. If you know someone who avoids dentistry because of fear, suggest they arrange a consultation. This conversation will hopefully be the beginning to a confident smile!