San Diego Dentist Offering Therapy Dog as Unique Approach to Relieve Dental Anxiety

August 11, 2015 - San Diego, CA - Dr. Susie C. Kwok of Uptown Dental Office is very happy to announce that her practice now has a new staff member: Nica Bella, a three-year-old miniature Schnauzer.

"Sometimes the standard approach to combat dental anxiety just doesn't cut it," Dr. Kwok said. "We've always offered oral conscious sedation and other anti-anxiety meds, soft music and heating pads, but sometimes traditional methods just aren't right for everyone.

That's why the practice sought alternative methods to relieve stress in patients and ultimately decided to bring in Nica Bella, who is a licensed therapy dog. During treatment, the five-pound pooch can sit on a patient's lap or just act as a nice distraction.

"People get very anxious about visiting the dentist," Dr. Kwok said. "Some can't even sleep the night before. But Nica Bella has proved to be a wonder at making people feel calm and relaxed."

Nica Bella doesn't roam around the office and is only used if patients request her, which is happening more and more, according to Dr. Kwok

With sedation dentistry on the rise, Dr. Kwok is happy to offer her pup as a more natural solution to dental fear.

"I have gained many more patients since Nico Bella's addition," said Dr. Kwok. "I guess San Diegans were waiting for her to help them get through their dental appointments."

About Uptown Dental Office and Dr. Susie C. Kwok
Uptown Dental Office provides general, cosmetic, and restorative dental services for both children and adults in the San Diego area. Dr. Susie C. Kwok graduated from the University Of Southern California School Of Dentistry in 1991. In 1997, she established her own practice and she prides herself on utilizing the latest dental materials and techniques while providing a relaxed and comfortable environment for her patients. Dr. Kwok is an active member of many dental organizations, including the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, and the San Diego County Dental Society.

For more information about Uptown Dental Office, please visit uptowndentaloffice.com.