FORGET THE DRILL

'Dental spa' uses amenities to help put patients at ease

BY SUSAN DEUTSCHLE - FOR BUSINESS FIRST

Columbus Cosmetic Dentist Even the most stoic among us is likely to feel a bit anxious during a visit to the dentist. The glaring lights and chilling sounds are enough the quicken anyone's pulse.

And those sensory assaults are experienced within moments of just walking through the clinic's front door. For many, terror really strikes when the dentist utters those dreaded words: "Now open wide..."

That experience is one that Schindler Dentistry in Powell wants people to forget. Owner Sharon Schindler has taken an unusual approach designed to put people at ease and to - believe it or not - make visits to her practice down-right pleasurable.

"We've worked hard to remove all of the negative triggers and replace them with positive ones," she says.

Overcoming the drill

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, lass than two-thirds of adult Americans reported visiting a dentist during the past 12 months. Not surprisingly, fear is what keeps many people away.

To create a soothing environment to combat that fear, Schindler pampers patients with aromatherapy, massage and a variety of other treatments and perks more typically associated with day spas.

Patients entering Schindler Dentistry are greeted by a calming color palette of green, purple and beige that dominates the reception room and "studios." Moodscape music plays softly in the background. The air is infused with aromas emanating from candles and scented oils. Framed portraits of happy patients proud of their smile makeovers line the walls. There are fresh flowers and a refreshment area, complete with sparkling water and specialty beverages.

Outdated, dog-eared magazines - a mainstay in the waiting rooms of many dental practices - are nowhere to be found. Complimentary newspapers and cappuccino are offered instead.

The real fun begins in the dental chair, with its self-programmable heated massage unit. As the pulsating rhythm begins relaxing muscles, a "treatment concierge" provdes a neck pillow, soft blanket and special glasses to shield eyes from the harsh lights. Headphones are put in place and the patient is given the choice of more than 60 music channels or a selection of DVDs to watch on a television screen.

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Dr Sharon Schindler DDS, Holistic Dentistry - Providing services in cosmetic dentistry, smile makeovers and dental spa treatment to the areas of Columbus and Powell, Ohio.