An astounding 90 million Americans (one-third of the U.S. population) are afraid to go to the dentist. According to the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation, in any given year up to 40 percent of the U.S. population does not see a dentist due to fear. Although research indicates a connection between bacteria in the mouth and systematic diseases such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes, tackling the fear of a dental visit is simply too much for a significant portion of the population.
One area practice is reaching out to fearful patients through an open house on Thursday, March 26 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. The event is hosted by the staff at Smiles By Holsinger & Higgins, 10646 River Road, Denton, and is designed to provide information in a casual setting with the practice’s staff and actual patients available to address questions and concerns. Attendees will receive an information packet, which includes a certificate for a complimentary new patient exam valued at $249. The free event also includes refreshments. Space is limited.
Information provided will focus on sedation dentistry and oral conscious sedation. As the name suggests, oral conscious sedation uses an oral medication to help a patient relax. “Many patients only remember coming into the office although they are fully conscious throughout the office visit. This technique is not only helpful for the fearful patient, but also for the patient who wants to get a number of procedures done is one visit instead of 5 or 6,” says Patricia E. Higgins, D.D.S.
“The importance of maintaining a healthy mouth cannot be overstated,” says Rowland S. Holsinger, D.D.S. “Any patient who is about to undergo any type of transplant or cardiac surgery must get a clean bill of dental health prior to their surgery. Through sedation dentistry we can help these patients as well as others and we do it in a respectful setting without judgment,” he adds.
For more information on sedation dentistry or to register for the open house call (800) 617-3644 in Delaware or (410) 479-3644 in Maryland. Walk-ins are welcome. Residents who are unable to attend the event can set up a free private, confidential consultation.
Smiles By Holsinger & Higgins opened in February 1986 and offers the convenience of comprehensive care for adult patients. They provide routine dental check-ups and cleanings as well as cosmetic enhancements to improve the appearance of crooked, chipped, unevenly spaced, or stained teeth. Since 2001 Smiles By Holsinger & Higgins has also provided sedation dentistry for the fearful patient or for those patients who wish to combine multiple procedures in fewer appointments.
Smiles By Holsinger & Higgins also houses a TMJ Diagnostic and Imaging Center. Services include:
• Invisalign (invisible braces)
• Zoom 2 and in-office whitening/bleaching
• Implants
• Single-visit crowns
• Veneers
• Lumineers
• Laser gum treatment
• Bonding
• Oral conscious sedation
Smiles By Holsinger & Higgins is now accepting new adult patients. For more information or to make an appointment, contact Smiles by Holsinger & Higgins at (800) 617-3644 (Delaware) or (410) 479-3644, or visit www.smilesby.com.