Some people fear going to the dentist because of their association with dental procedures and extreme pain. Fortunately, that perception is quite outdated, as technological advances have made pain-free dentistry a reality. Here at Stratman Family Dentistry, we only use the most state-of-the art technology to make your visit comfortable and relaxing.

Amenities

We want your time with us to be as relaxing as possible. This is why we offer complimentary beverages, soft pillows and blankets, warm scented towels, and TVs in your treatment room. The spa and the dentist’s office need not be two very different places.

Practically-Painless Injections

A painless injection not an oxymoron. As you unwind in our spa-like treatment rooms, we will apply a strong numbing gel on the injection site to lesson the pain of the injection. We will then administer the injection with a DentalVibe® device. This device uses ultrasonic vibrations to block the brain’s recognition of the sensation of pain, making it practically undetectable.

X-rays, Intraoral Cameras & Tomography

X-rays can be clunky and painful, but ours are not. We use low-radiation digital X-rays which are significantly quicker and much more comfortable than traditional X-rays. Moreover, our intraoral cameras make it easy for us to take a very close look at your teeth and also help us instruct you on your best treatment options. Finally, Dr. Stratman was one of the first Tucson-area dentists to use cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) to take 3D models of teeth, soft tissues, and facial bones in order to take a better and closer look at the entire area and make better informed decisions on future cosmetic procedures.

If the fear of pain is preventing you from going to the dentist, we encourage you to explore our incredible amenities and state-of-the art, pain-reducing technologies to overcome your fears and take control of your dental health. Contact us to schedule your appointment today!

Do you have an unmitigated fear of the dentist? Have you been putting off your dental checkup for months, even years, because you’re overwhelmed at the thought of sitting in a dentist’s chair? If this sounds like you, then you may have dental anxiety.

Dental Anxiety Symptoms

Dental anxiety can bring up a lot of painful feelings, including panic, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and intense feelings of helplessness. Maybe the thought of going to the dentist quite literally makes you feel physically ill, or perhaps you are nervous just sitting in the dentist’s waiting room. If you find yourself ruminating over the thought of your dental exam, then perhaps it is time to overcome your fears.

Fear of the dentist is universal. For decades, researchers have conducted studies on people who have dental fear and avoidance, in an attempt to learn how to assuage their fears and give them the strength to sit through regular dental visits. Research has shown that behavioral therapy in conjunction with the use of general anesthesia was very successful in participants, even those who had no hopes of ever overcoming their dental anxiety!

Relaxation Techniques

In addition, dental anxiety is also easily picked up by children. One study found that conditioning seemed to be largely responsible for children’s fear of the dentist. If you have mild dental anxiety, then more exposure or knowledge may be all you need to overcome your fears.

Many people who are afraid of the dentist need to find the right one who will put them at ease. Talk to your dentist honestly about your fears, and they should do everything they can to make you comfortable.

Coping methods you can practice yourself include breathing exercises, relaxation techniques (such as picturing a positive, relaxing image), or even requesting your dentist to allow you to listen to music that calms you down.

If these techniques are not enough for you, there is always the option of nitrous oxide (laughing gas), sedation, or topical anesthetics to help with pain control. Talk to your dentist about what will work best for you.

Dr. Stratman of Stratman Family Dentistry understands that going to the dentist is not easy for everyone. However, skipping dental appointments can lead to serious problems such as tooth loss. If you are afraid of the dentist, give us a call and we can help you with our gentle and friendly family dentistry.