Treating Dental Anxiety

There are many things that please me deeply as a dentist. One of those is watching patients warm up, relax, grow in trust and simply have more fun as they get to know us. Most people have a bad dental experience in their past that has left them afraid, nervous and even suspicious of dentists. My whole career, I have tried to help people get past “dental guilt and fear” imposed by someone in their past and to help them enjoy good health and a beautiful smile; all as they experience comfort throughout their care.

Both Dr. Guenther and Donaldson (and our hygienists) get very positive feedback about how we make people comfortable and reduce pain with good gentle anesthesia technique  as well as many other factors. To make dentistry even more anxiety free, more comfortable, less stressful, safer and even possible for more people, Dr. Donaldson & Guenther have advanced training in oral sedation techniques from DOCS (the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation).

The medical word is “anxiolysis” which means “anxiety free.” With the help of light oral sedation (as directed in Michigan, where we are located) many many people can overcome their fear, gagging problems, problems with not getting numb enough and post treatment discomfort. If you are one of those people, you should contact us to find out more. You may well be able to have the smile and dental health you only dreamed of until now.

Procedure

 Nobody has to be white knuckled in the dental chair anymore.  With the help of oral sedation, a medication placed under the tongue, and a quiet room to relax in while the medications take effect, patients are on their way to dental freedom.  Our patients medications are pre-screened for any interactions,  and are given specific instructions prior to the appointment.  We are able to monitor our patients oxygen levels and blood pressure throughout the appointment with the use of a pulse oximeter.  You will be able to participate with the appointment as needed, all the while anxiety free.