I never thought I would be leaving a 5 star review for the dentist but The Smile Lounge is *exceptional.*
How good can a dentist be? Let's review.
My spidey-senses were tingling or maybe that was a cavity was forming. Yikes.
I don't know what's worse, finding a dentist or going to the dentist. Thankfully, my best friend found Smile Lounge on reddit under recommendations of nonjudgemental dentists in the area.
"Definitely check out The Smile Lounge. I'm autistic and have bad dental anxiety, so dental appointments have always sucked. The dentist there spent a lot of time with me, answering all my questions, made sure I was comfortable, and let me take breaks when I needed them. It was the first experience I've had where I didn't feel judged at all, or lectured about poor hygiene."
Sold! I called in, made an appointment and was sent forms to fill out ahead of time online. Sweet! The form gives you a lot of space to explain your previous experience with dentists and comfort level. Never had that before.
It's in a building right next to Washington Square. The entrance faces Embassy Suites. There is a callbox to use for Smile Lounge to let you in. It was a tad bit confusing at first but no big deal.
I was greeted and led into a chair right away. The rooms are beautiful. Plants on the walls, beautiful views, lofi music, and TV's on the ceiling.
I asked the good dentist if he hired a designer or if it was all him. He told me that he has always been fascinated with the effect environment has on people and wants people to feel as comfortable as possible during their visit.
I never thought I would use the word comfortable to describe my visit but that's exactly what it was. No giant xray machines or weird implements I need to hold in my mouth. No hard office lighting, glaring lights, claustrophobia, or whirring from other patients. Privacy.
The best part was the transparency. You can actually see your own x-rays and the good dentist will explain everything you want to know, nothing more or less.
I honestly did not want to leave.
I'm terrified of going to the dentist: the judgement, lectures about dental hygiene, the lack of empathy, the pain and the trauma of being treated like a *patient* instead of a *person*.
I am relieved that there are dental practices like Smile Lounge. It was such a positive experience that ever person should have in their life.
Go to Smile Lounge for all your dental needs. You will not regret it. read more