Say goodbye to dental anxiety with a comfort menu and therapy dog

This paid piece is sponsored by Neighborhood Dental.

If you dread going to the dentist, you’re far from alone — but wait until you meet this furry comfort companion.

Tenner is a certified therapy dog who loves greeting patients when they visit Neighborhood Dental on East 26th Street in Sioux Falls.

“For us, Tenner is one way we’re able to help patients experience unmatched comfort,” said Pam Coffman, office manager at Neighborhood Dental, 5911 E. 26th St.

“We are dedicated to saving our patients pain, time and money. Our mission is to ensure that every visit to our office is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.”

Tenner’s role is to help provide a calming and soothing presence during your dental visit.

“We understand that dental appointments can be anxiety-inducing for many people, and Tenner is here to help alleviate that stress,” Coffman said. “His gentle demeanor and affectionate nature make him a perfect companion to help you feel more at ease.”

Tenner can sit by your side, offering comfort and support, whether you’re in for a routine checkup or a more involved procedure.

“Many of our patients have found that having Tenner around significantly reduces their anxiety, making their visit a much more pleasant experience,” Coffman said.

If you’ve felt stress about going to the dentist, you have lots of company. According to the Cleveland Clinic, 36 percent of people in the U.S. have dental anxiety or dentophobia, and 12 percent have an extreme fear. Other studies estimate that up to 75 percent of Americans experience some level of dental fear, and 20 percent avoid dental care because of it.

“From family dentistry to cosmetic and emergency dental services, our team is here to provide comprehensive care for you and your entire family, but we know that can only happen if you feel comfortable, so we take huge steps to address that,” Coffman said.

In addition to Tenner, Neighborhood Dental offers a Comfort Menu designed to make your time with us as relaxing and enjoyable as possible. Our amenities include:

• Headphones: Enjoy your favorite music or podcast to drown out the sounds of dental equipment.
• Blankets: Stay warm and cozy with soft, comforting blankets.
• Wi-Fi: Stay connected, or catch up on work with free high-speed internet.
• Television: Watch your favorite shows or movies while Neighborhood Dental takes care of your dental needs.
• Pillows: Get comfortable with plush pillows to support your head and neck.
• Coffee bar: Savor a hot cup of coffee from the lobby coffee bar.

“Our Comfort Menu is tailored to ensure that every aspect of your visit is as comfortable and pleasant as possible,” Coffman said. “We believe that a relaxed patient is a happy patient, and we’re committed to providing an environment where you can feel at ease.”

What patients are saying

Here’s a sampling of what patients had to say about their Neighborhood Dental experience:

“Such great staff! All are very bubbly and welcoming. Tenner is amazing!! Walked in super anxious. By the time I was being called to the back, my anxiety had dropped like crazy thanks to Tenner, so if you stop by for an appointment and are as anxious as I am, definitely pet Tenner. He helped so much and is such a cutie!” – Ivette M 

“We are so grateful for Neighborhood Dental on E. 26th St! They are patient, flexible and so kind every time we come in! The addition of Tenner as a therapy dog during services is fantastic for those who are a little more anxious and needing support staying calm during their appointments. Our 7-year-old daughter, who is usually more anxious about appointments, is now excited to go to the dentist and goes back all on her own! Thank you to all the staff at Neighborhood Dental! We greatly appreciate all that you do for your patients.” – Samantha W

New to the neighborhood? Special offers for new patients!

If you are new to the neighborhood and are looking for a dentist, look no further than Neighborhood Dental! As a new patient, you can receive a $50 credit by mentioning Pigeon605, plus FREE teeth whitening through the Be Bright Rewards program. With Be Bright Rewards, Neighborhood Dental patients enjoy complimentary Opalescence Go at-home whitening trays!

Oh, and congratulations — you are eligible! The at-home whitening trays are available to all patients — new or existing. Existing patients will receive the trays as long as they have no outstanding or unscheduled treatment and have been diligent in adhering to their continuing care schedules.

To learn more

The Neighborhood Dental East 26th Street location and Tenner were featured recently on a “KELOLAND Living” segment highlighting the unique ways Neighborhood Dental strives to make dental visits a positive experience for patients. Watch it here.

At Neighborhood Dental, unique amenities are part of every location’s commitment to exceptional patient care.

“Our mission is to save you pain, time and money by providing top-quality dental services in a comfortable and welcoming environment,” clinical director Tia Meyer said.

Neighborhood Dental provides the same high level of service in eight locations, including three in Sioux Falls.

You can find Neighborhood Dental at the following locations:

• Sioux Falls
  • 41st Street
  • East 26th
  • West 26th
• Tea, SD
• Harrisburg, SD
• Brandon, SD 
• Beresford, SD
• Yankton, SD

“We are always welcoming new patients of all ages,” Meyer said. “Whether you’re visiting us for family dentistry, cosmetic services or emergency dental care, our team has you covered.”

Experience the difference that Tenner, the Comfort Menu and the welcoming Neighborhood Dental team can make during your next dental appointment. Schedule your visit today by booking online or calling one of the offices, and discover why so many families in Sioux Falls and beyond trust Neighborhood Dental for their dental care needs.