I hate going to the dentist! It's more than that. Still traumatized by childhood experiences, I am terrified of dentists. I procrastinate seeing a dentist until it's an absolute emergency. By the time I get to a dentist, I'm not only terrified, I'm in pain and embarrassed. After all, as a successful professional, you would not expect me to have teeth rotting in my head!! Sound familiar? Then you will want to hear about my remarkable "find" in Dr. Ben Watkins.
My trusted, long-time former dentist relocated. It took three years and a painful broken tooth to force me to look for a new dentist. My standards for a dentist are nearly impossible to find: compassion, competence, clarity, integrity, professionalism - and a gentle touch; and I want a skilled "technician" who is on the cutting-edge of dentistry, a pre-eminent expert.
I was dogged in my search. The name of one dentist repeatedly rose above the rest: Dr. Ben Watkins. He was highly-regarded, eminently qualified and repeatedly recommended by all sources, including his peers. However, his reviews did not address how he might handle my deep-seated anxiety. I needed a dentist who cared about me and would understand my fears - one who was patient and willing to factor trust-building into his patient relationship and treatment approach. Dr. Watkins' accolades were compelling but, in truth, it was my throbbing toothache that finally forced me to call his office.
I broke into a cold sweat as I picked up the phone to schedule a consultation. From the first phone call and the reassuring, gentle persuasion of Genevieve, Dr. Watkins' front desk assistant, and with every interaction thereafter, Dr. Watkins' entire staff was caring, gentle, and proficient. They worked with a team synergy that reflected genuine respect for each other, their roles and their abilities. They were eager to answer my questions and share their knowledge, often anticipating the myriad of questions I had about my dental procedure, their amazing state-of-the-art equipment, computerized lab techniques and capabilities, and even the latest dental materials. I felt my anxiety lessen.
Yet, anticipating meeting Dr. Watkins, I could feel my rapid heartbeat, the beads of perspiration on my forehead, the churning of my squeamish stomach and the icy cold of my clammy hands. Dr. Watkins immediately put me at ease. He intuitively acknowledged and responded to my anxiety. He sensed my need for information was a barometer for building trust and confidence in his capabilities. He spent about 30 minutes talking with me, asking questions and answering mine before gently examining my mouth.
After thoroughly reviewing my x-rays, he explained what was necessary to address the immediate crisis of my broken tooth. My worse fears were confirmed - he would actually have to work on my mouth. I was terrified; and knew I had no other choice. I felt like a lamb being lead to the slaughter. However, to my great relief, while explaining every step as he progressed, Dr. Watkins gently rebuilt my tooth and created a temporary crown -- .without pain!! He then developed a clear and comprehensive treatment plan, which included estimated costs and other top-notch specialists with whom he would partner to complete my dental work.
Dr. Watkins exemplifies compassionate professionalism and he more than met my tough standards. He is the most technically proficient, remarkably knowledgeable dentist I have encountered in my decades of extensive dental work, with a team of assistants who meet his standards of excellence. He has unequivocally earned my trust and respect. And he is a genuinely nice, likeable guy!
I hope by posting my experience, others who share my fears or have anxieties about going to the dentist will consider the talents of Dr. Watkins. Meet him...talk with him...decide for yourself. I have no doubt that you will choose truly "the best" - Dr. Ben Watkins. Linda read more
