Four years since I had dental work. Yep, I said I - four years.
I have an phobia for dental work - I can handle the pain of the work but I can't handle the "so here's something we found, here's what needs to be done" and my teeth just don't cooperate with the intended goal.
It all started about 12 years ago when a root canal nearly ruined my planned vacation to Hawaii. The dentist broke the drill bit in my root and spent about six hours trying to get it out. No luck, so the next day I went to an emergency oral specialist and spent another 10 hours sitting in the chair. I wanted the tooth pulled but each DDS said they had to get the drill bit first. I finally walked away without the dreaded drill bit in my root, about $2000 more in debt, and a year later, I loss the tooth. ;(
My dear husband did a lot of research and became the family guinea pig in search of a new family dentist. He visited Villaggio Dental, had a check up, had his teeth cleaned, and started the process of more extensive dental projects. He raved about the staff and environment. Then my my husband passed away unexpectedly. The day after, a alert popped up on his cell phone to remind him of an appointment, and I called to cancel.
A day later, my family received a beautiful bouquet of the flowers from Villaggio Dental. Who else out there can say that their dental office sent flowers to them, especially since they didn't even know us???
After 10 months of grieving, I found the courage to pick up the phone and make appointments for me and our daughter. My husband was not wrong - their office great! It's warm, inviting, and calm. There's a little basket of water bottles sitting on the fireplace. Current magazines, restroom access from the waiting room (so you don't have to ask), and a charming little kids play area. Staff shares the workload sensibly and every patient I saw come in was welcomed with smiles.
Sat in the chair and Bethany took xrays and a preliminary exam. So friendly, and quiet, and calming. After explaining my "phobia" she let me know that I could leave any time, I could take a break any time - just having that permission was a relief. When Dr. Leach arrived, he was not rushed; he thoroughly explained the health of my teeth; he checked for signs of oral cancer (nothing there!!); he asked repeatedly if I has any questions. He seemed invested. And compassionate.
I came back a couple of days later for a thorough cleaning. My PSTD anxiety had diminished little, but I was still waiting to hear bad news. Nothing. Susanna was just as terrific as everyone else. This helps me believe that Dr. Leach does whatever possible to insure his practice has competent people, and advocates for making patients comfortable.
In the real world, every person has a certain way they want to interact with others. Can I guarantee you'll have the best dental experience in the world if you choose to become a patient at Villaggio Dental? Nope. But I absolutely know we're going to be receiving our future dental care with Dr. Leach and his staff. read more
