How We Put Your Dental Fears to Rest at Neighborhood Dental

Last updated March 28, 2024

Creating a Stress-Free Dental Experience: Relax, We’ve Got This!

At Neighborhood Dental, we understand that visiting the dentist might be a source of fear or anxiety for some of our patients. We know your comfort matters as much as your oral health, so our teams go the extra mile to make your experience welcoming and stress-free. Keep reading to find out how we put your dental fears to rest at Neighborhood Dental.

Dental anxiety goes beyond just fearing the dentist; it can involve feelings of uneasiness, nervousness, or even panic at the thought of a dental appointment. This form of anxiety can stem from various factors, including past traumatic, negative dental experiences, fear of pain, fear of the unknown, or simply feeling out of control in the dental chair.

Our Comfort Menu: Consider This Your Relaxation Toolkit For a Worry-free Visit.

To help put you at ease, we offer a unique “comfort menu” designed to make your experience as pleasant as possible. Relax and unwind with the following amenities:

Headphones: Tune out any distracting noises and enjoy your favorite music or a relaxing podcast.
Blankets: Get warm and cozy in a soft blanket during your dental exam and cleaning.
WiFi: Stay connected to work or browse the internet for some distraction.
Television: Watch a show or movie to take your mind off your appointment.
Pillow: A comfortable pillow to support your head and neck.
Massage Chairs: You can sink into our operatory chairs at some locations while experiencing the ultimate relaxation.

neighborhood-dental-comfort-menu

Introducing Tenner, Our Therapy Dog

Our East 26th Street location in Sioux Falls is thrilled to offer even more comfort thanks to our resident therapy dog, Tenner! Tenner is specially trained to provide a calming, soothing presence during dental visits. With his gentle demeanor and soothing presence, Tenner helps reduce anxiety and promote relaxation for patients of all ages. Research has shown that interacting with therapy dogs can significantly reduce anxiety and stress.

Tailored Care for Your Comfort

Your comfort is our top priority at Neighborhood Dental. Our dedicated teams ensure your dental experience is as positive as possible. Please share any concerns or anxieties, and we’ll work with you to create a personalized comfort plan. From your favorite TV show to whether you’d like Tenner to say hello at our East 26 location, we want to tailor your experience for maximum comfort.

Additional Tips for Managing Dental Fears And Anxiety

Here are some additional ideas for patients who’d like to feel even more secure during their appointments:

Communicate Openly: Tell your local Neighborhood dentist and hygienist about your nervousness. They can explain procedures and answer any questions.
Bring a Support Person: We encourage patients to bring a friend or family member for moral support.
Practice Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing and meditation can help manage anxiety.

Let us know if you’d like more information about these techniques or want to discuss options for sedation dentistry, such as Nitrous Oxide.

Your Visit, Your Way

We understand that everyone’s needs and preferences differ, and we strive to tailor your experience to ensure you feel comfortable and supported throughout your visit. Ready to experience a stress-free dental visit? Contact one of our teams to schedule an appointment and mention your interest in our comfort menu at any of our locations. We look forward to welcoming you and caring for your smile!

Don’t let dental anxiety stand in the way of a healthy smile. Find your nearest Neighborhood Dental:

Besides these locations, we’re proud to serve the surrounding areas, including Vermillion, Elk Point, Worthing, Canton, Viborg, Parker, Hartington, Tyndall, Hartford, and Lennox, South Dakota.