Going to the dentist doesn’t top most people’s list of favorite things, and for some it is downright terrifying. It’s estimated that 9 to 15 percent of Americans skip or avoid the dentist due to fear. Keenly aware of this anxiety, some dentists are using novel techniques to help patients overcome their fears.
Academy of General Dentistry member Tony Menendez, DDS, MAGD takes an unusual – and furry – approach to helping his patients battle dental anxiety by introducing them to his faithful dog Cassi.
1.For more than 15 years, Dr. Menendez has employed furry “assistants” who help boost spirits and calm nerves. Dr. Menendez’s therapy dogs are trained to gently rest their head in patients’ laps, or softly nudge their hands, requesting to be comforted, which offers a welcome distraction during oral procedures.
