Dental anxiety is a very real problem that affects tens of millions of people in this country. That’s a shame, because all too often the fear of pain, of embarrassment, or of being judged keeps patients from getting the care they need.
At Smiles of Chattanooga in Chattanooga, TN, we take dental anxiety and fear very seriously. When you visit our office, you’ll find that everyone understands and is sympathetic with your concerns. You’ll also discover that we have a wide variety of comfort options and types of dental sedation to make sure that your appointment is your most comfortable ever.
Comfort Options
Your journey to the most relaxed dental appointment ever begins the moment you walk into our office. You can enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages in our waiting room as well as the aromatherapy in the office. If you’d like to be seen during more quiet hours, you can reserve a time as early as 7AM for your appointment. Or, if after work is a better choice, you can schedule as late as 7PM.
We know that quite a few people have a fear of needles. Once we apply a numbing gel to the injection site, you won’t feel a thing.
Now, let’s get you comfortable. Have you ever enjoyed the luxury of a pillow and warm blanket while you were in the dental chair? They’re yours for the asking at Smiles of Chattanooga, but our comfort options don’t stop there.
Hate the bright light shining down from above? We’ll be happy to provide sunglasses. Don’t like the sounds of dentistry? You can Select a video to watch with an iPad and noise-canceling headphones. Or listen to your favorite music on an iPod.
And following your appointment, enjoy moist towelettes and all-natural lip balm.
Yes, There’s More
We understand that comfort options help but may not be enough for some people. Dr. Robert Gallien completed training at the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation. He has been training and performing sedation since 2003.
We offer inhaled sedation (“laughing gas”), which takes effect quickly and wears off quickly too. You’ll breathe a mixture of the gas and oxygen through a small mask; the effects take place within minutes. We can also adjust the level of sedation for your comfort. And since the effects wear off quickly, you will likely be able to drive right after your appointment.
For those who need more help relaxing, we provide oral sedation. The medication causes a deep sense of relaxation, and you likely won’t care what’s going on around you. You’ll still be able to follow directions and answer questions, though.
Don’t worry if you fall asleep in the dental chair! That happens to many people, which will give you some idea of how effective oral sedation is.
Since the effects linger for some time after your appointment, make sure you have someone to drive you home afterward.
Your Most Comfortable Dental Appointment Ever Awaits
Don’t let dental anxiety or fear keep you from having your healthiest mouth and brightest smile. Schedule an appointment with our Chattanooga, TN dental office by calling 423-380-0681 today.