I plan to put this review on every site I can find - that's just how pleased I am.
So today I went to Axiom Dental in Cary, NC. Nervous is not the word I would use when I go to the dentist - terrified. Basically that's why it's been 8 or so years since my last check-up, and also why I've been asked to find another provider by about 5 other dentists - they are uncomfortable working with someone that has my level of anxiety, or so they say. I was also more than a little embarrassed by the condition of my teeth, and how I let it get so bad before seeking treatment.
Holy guacamole for real! Axiom was so friendly. They let me explain my fears, and they actually listened to my concerns. Let's begin at the beginning - my interaction with the dental team started with Wael - the assistant. Friendly guy, explained what would be happening, who would do it, why they needed to do it. Nothing like informing the patient, and when you're nervous there isn't enough information you can receive. Next came the hygienist, Victoria. She came in introduced herself, explained again what would she would be doing, even explained what the numbers she would be calling out meant and that our friend Wael would be recording them and got to work. She asked periodically how I was doing, has a super gentle touch and was more than ready to answer any questions as we went and explained how the doctor would be coming in next and explained what she would be doing again - remember information is great for the nervous patient. Now comes the doctor - Dr. Santago. She came in, introduced herself, sat down and listened to me as I repeated my concerns, explained what she would be doing and how we would review the treatment plan as soon as she was done and got to work with our friendly Wael making notes. When I winced she was sensitive to it, when I asked for a moment to breath when I had a panic moment she said sure no problem, again had a gentle touch and was very aware of my needs as a patient. When it was all done she actually advised me what needed to happen to get my teeth back in shape and what procedures were a priority.
Now there is one person I have saved for last - Robin at the front desk. She checks you in and takes you in the little side room that I call the dungeon because that's where they tell you everything you need will cost $12,000. Robin is my girl, she's sensitive to financial constraints, I'm not sure but I think there isn't anything she doesn't know about insurance, she's funny and was wearing some killer boots (just as a side note there).
Overall, I am writing this and absolutely in tears that it has taken me all of the 40 years I've been on this earth to finally find a dental team that makes me feel like a person and not a burden. In every aspect of my life I am strong, confident, reasonable and emotionally stable. In the dental office all reason escapes me and I crumble. Axiom never judged me or my fears, they never once made me feel bad because I have neglected my teeth, they used no scare tactics to get me to do treatments - they simply advised me what needed to happen and showed encouragement and support. I heard more than once - you're here now to handle these issues, that's what matters - it meant a lot to me and I can't thank them enough. Now I will totally be requesting the nitrous for procedures because my fears are not magically cured, but I will be back because they are warm, kind, accepting and felt more like family even in our very brief meeting.
For all you scaredy cats, and those too embarrassed for a dentist to look in your mouth - honestly suck it up and call them. They will treat you right and you won't be judged. And if they treat us difficult folks with that much care and understanding, imagine what they will do for the rest of you - so you call them too. read more