We all make New Year’s resolutions — exercise more, eat less sugar and more veggies, etc., etc. But, like many American adults, by mid-February we’re losing steam with our commitment. By the first of April, many of us have raised the proverbial white flag.

It’s not unusual for adults to have periodontal disease because dental fears have prevented them from receiving the dental care they need. So, here is a Resolution you can keep: Overcome your fear of dentistry! That’s right! You CAN do it and we’re here to help you! Here’s how …

• First, call us at (828) 274-9440. A friendly staff member will answer the phone and answer your questions. She can set up a consultation appointment for you if you’d like to meet personally with me.

• We’ll begin by conversing in our quiet consultation room, which is removed from the clinical side of the practice. We’ll sit in comfy arm chairs and I’ll explain the options we have available for patients with high fear or anxiety.

• After this visit, it’s up to you to decide how you wish to proceed. I can walk you to the clinical area and show you around. Or, I can introduce you to a few of our staff members who are experienced in caring for patients with dental fear.

Remember, the first step is in your hands. Let us help you with a New Year’s resolution you CAN keep!

This time of year always has me thinking about all the wonderful people we have seen as patients. Many of these came to us after going for a number of years, even decades, without seeing a dentist. Most had avoided dental care for so long because of a fear of dentistry.

As a Periodontist, I cannot imagine treating someone who is in pain because of my hands. While many people who have dental fears are forced into care because of a painful dental problem, our office is not only dedicated to restoring their mouth to good health, but doing so in a gentle and comfortable manner.

In addition to being committed to providing your care in comfort, we are also very respectful to our patients. We realize that, for many, it takes a great deal of courage to even walk into our reception area. Regardless of how long it’s been since seeing a dentist, ALL of our patients are given ‘red carpet’ treatment.

The only reason we exist is to provide care for our patients. Providing that care to the highest standards with respect to each individual in a manner that is comfortable and pleasant is our commitment to you!

I hope this coming year will bring you many smiles, ones that are healthy and worry-free!

As a Periodontist, I see a wide variety of mouths. Some folks have poor oral health and missing teeth because of dental fears. Some grew up not having access to good dental care or understanding its importance. Because of genetics, some were born with an oral health that would always pose challenges.

When a patient’s oral health suffers, regardless of the reason, the result, far too often, is tooth loss. No one can predict the frustration and discomfort that dentures can cause until they’ve been a long-time denture wearer. Denture problems include sore spots on tender gums, difficultly biting and chewing, embarrassment from slips, speech problems, and being self-conscious in social settings.

This is why I recommend Dental Implants. Because Dental Implants are held in the jaw bone, just as natural tooth roots, they restore stability. This means you can eat and laugh without fear of slips, chew comfortably, and feel confident in close settings with others. Plus, Dental Implants are designed to last your lifetime, making them an excellent investment.

For those who are missing natural teeth, Dental Implants provide a dependable, lasting way to have teeth that are “part of you” again. Arrange a consultation by calling (828) 274-9440. During this time, I’ll explain the types that are appropriate for your needs and answer your questions. You just may find yourself enjoying a confident new smile by Christmas!

Whenever I meet a new patient referred by a current or former patient, I take it as the ultimate compliment! Too, we often see people who have not seen a dentist in years. It is not unusual to meet a new patient who was forced to delay care for many years due to fear, financial issues or serious illness. Regardless of the reason, we are always happy to make them feel ‘at home’ and confident in allowing our office to restore them to optimal oral health.

We are always pleased to welcome others who are seeking the specialized care other patients have come to know! Suggest they visit our web site or call (828) 274-9440 to learn more.