Posts Tagged ‘dental anxiety’

Advanced Technology for Modern Dentistry with Dr. Simmons

Monday, July 26th, 2010

At our Chesapeake office, Dr. Robert Simmons and the dental team are constantly striving to deliver the best patient big-tooth-digital-187x300experience and treatment. By staying ahead of the curve and employing the latest developments in dentistry, we can provide relaxing care with lasting results. Conservative dentistry is our goal, so we’ve invested our resources in precise, non-invasive tools and in continuing education for our staff members, all for our patients’ benefit.

Dr. Simmons’ technology includes:

Laser Dentistry
The dental field is full of applications for laser technology. In surgical procedures such as gum disease therapy, a laser acts as a cutting tool, and can also vaporize tissue. Other uses include curing a filling, when it works to strengthen the bond between a patient’s filling and tooth, and a heat source to activate teeth whitening chemicals during a cosmetic treatment. Laser technology is also employed in devices that detect dental decay, such as the DIAGNOdent. Learn more about dental lasers…

DIAGNOdent
You can fight the development of dental decay with routine checkups, good home hygiene, and professional deep cleanings. Prevention is always preferable to treatment, but Dr. Simmons believes in early detection of any cavities that do occur, so that treatment is as conservative and comfortable as possible. DIAGNOdent uses laser technology to find any areas of decay, some that may yet be undetectable by routine visual inspection. Spotting and arresting a cavity in its early stages saves our patients the cost and time that more aggressive treatment would require down the road. Learn more about DIAGNOdent…

(more…)

Dr. Simmons Helps Chesapeake Patients Fight Back Against Dental Anxiety

Saturday, March 20th, 2010

boxingAs we’ve discussed in our articles on this blog, many people avoid dental visits out of fear. Their concerns can range from fear of needles and injections to distasteful odors and sounds. Just hearing a dental drill can set a person’s anxiety on high alert! Dr. Robert Simmons has helped countless patients work through their fears and get the care they need to regain and maintain good oral health. Our Chesapeake practice has been specifically designed for patients just like you: someone who wants minimum-stress path to a whole and healthy mouth. Dr. Simmons blends a compassionate approach to dental care with creative solutions that cater to nervous patients.

Solutions to a few common hurdles:

  • Sense of powerlessness
    We believe that interacting with and educating our patients is the key to diffusing fears regarding a lack of control in the dental chair. Dr. Simmons takes great pains to thoroughly discuss procedures, a patient’s options, and strategies for dealing with dental fears. You’ll feel empowered with the best information. (more…)

Relaxing Dentistry from Dr. Simmons, Chesapeake’s “Comfort Dentist”

Tuesday, February 16th, 2010

After decades of treating Chesapeake-area patients, Dr. Simmons has learned a lot about people and their feelings about dentists and dentistry. Unfortunately, many people have had shutterstock_1140255negative experiences at a dental visit in the past, and the result is often that they avoid making appointments when they desperately need care, sometimes for years at a time. If you’ve been putting off a trip to the dentist, Dr. Simmons wants you to consider sedation dentistry, a wonderful way to regain oral health without fear. Wondering just who benefits from sedation dentistry? Read below to see if one of the following situations applies to you:

  • Anxiety, stress, or fear associated with dental visits
  • A sensitive gag reflex
  • Extra-sensitive teeth
  • Physical discomfort when sitting in the dental chair
  • Inability to become numb with traditional, local anesthetic.
  • The need to complete extensive dental work in as few visits as possible. (more…)

Co-Treatment Planning at Dr. Simmons’ Dental Office

Friday, January 15th, 2010

Here on the blog, we’ve been discussing the ways that Dr. Simmons removes the confusion and anxiety that can sometimes accompany dental shutterstock_11346013examinations and diagnoses. Today we’ll take a look at the process that occurs after Dr. Simmons has assessed your mouth and talked with you about the condition of your teeth and gums.

You should know…

1. Restoring your health is our number one priority. When you come to us for basic treatment or with a dental issue, we won’t urge procedures you don’t need for fundamental health (like cosmetic dentistry) or insist that you complete all facets of your treatment plan immediately. Dr. Simmons will outline your most basic needs and solve those problems with you first.

2. Treatment often occurs in phases. One size does not fit all! Since Dr. Simmons customizes and prioritizes your treatment, together you can devise a plan that allows you to fit dental care into your lifestyle and budget. You may decide to spread treatment out among a matter of weeks or even months, depending on your situation and Dr. Simmons’ recommendation.

3. You can afford dental health. Whether you’re covered by insurance, use a credit card, or you pay through CareCredit’s patient financing service, dental care is within your reach. At Dr. Simmons’ practice, our true desire is ensuring you obtain the dentistry you need, and our financial options were designed with that in mind. Our front office staff will gladly discuss the choices if you need any help.

4. Maintenance is the key. After you complete treatments and are enjoying restored oral health, remember that the next step is to continue good dental hygiene at home and keep regular appointments with Dr. Simmons. We’ll advise you about the best ways to brush and floss, as well as any other maintenance your dental work might require.

Now that you know the facts about the consultation, diagnosis and treatment process, call our Chesapeake dental practice to schedule an appointment with Dr. Robert Simmons. With his compassionate approach and technical skill, he’ll gently advise and guide even the most fearful patients back to a healthy smile.

Overcome Your Dental Fear with Dr. Simmons

Friday, November 13th, 2009

Avoiding dental care is not uncommon. Unfortunately, fear keeps a large segment of people from visiting a dentist. Fear may be based on worry that the dentist or hygienist may judge you for young and old women modifiedneglecting your mouth, the procedure may be painful, or you might be overwhelmed with dental problems and fees you can’t afford.  Dr. Simmons understands your difficulty and sympathizes with your struggle to restore and maintain good health. He believes that, although fear can be a stumbling block to achieving dental care, it doesn’t have to stop you.

A Caring Environment
Dr. Simmons and our entire staff are passionate about people. Our philosophy is, the best way to treat patients is by building strong relationships with each one. Once you feel respected and accepted, we can work together to address your needs. When Dr. Simmons looks at a patient, he doesn’t just see a set of teeth, he sees a person with a unique situation.

Planning for Your Budget
You may not expect a dentist to be concerned with your budget, but Dr. Simmons knows that for most people, a list of expensive procedures isn’t feasible. After careful evaluation and extended consultation, he’ll differentiate between what’s preferable and what’s necessary. You might even schedule dental work in phases, starting with the most vital treatment now and moving on as finances permit. Our office also works with CareCredit, a financing service that offers flexible payment plans, so patients can access the care they need. Learn more by visiting CareCredit’s website.

Sedation Dentistry
To provide especially anxious patients a comfortable and soothing experience, we offer sedation dentistry. An effective way to manage dental phobia, sedation can also be appropriate for patients who have sensitive gag reflexes, dread needles, or need extensive work done in one appointment.

If it’s been a while since your last dental visit, don’t worry, we’re not here to judge or criticize. We’re here to get you back on track to a healthy mouth. Call today to schedule a visit with Dr. Robert Simmons at our Chesapeake office. You’ll be glad you did.