What is a Dental Spa?

A dental spa offers a pleasant and welcoming alternative to those who dread visiting their dentist. It combines dental services typically available in a dentist's office with all the pampering treatments you would expect from a spa. The relaxing ambience is an excellent antidote to the stresses and nervousness usually associated with a dental visit.

Just like at your dentist's office, dental treatments at the spa are supervised by a licensed dentist. Spa dentistry "yes, there is even a term for it!"is recognized by the International Medical Spa Association and the Day Spa Association; but not by the American Dental Association. However, the American Dental Association has spoken out in support of dental spas suggesting that they improve overall patient care.

While dental spas are a relatively new phenomenon, by 2005, as many as 5 percent of the American Dental Association's members had identified themselves as "dental spas". And the numbers are growing by the day.

What can I expect at a dental spa?
A dental spa may offer general dental services as well as cosmetic dentistry. So you can obtain basic dental services like checkups, cleanings and fillings as well as cosmetic dental procedures such as straightening, whitening, closing gaps between teeth and crowns.

At a dental spa, you can generally expect services that are tailored to meet your specific needs. Whether you are hoping to combine a day of relaxation with dental care, or wish to have your dental needs addressed within a short period, you can still combine that visit with a quick facial or shoulder and neck massage. Many dental spas will offer wholesome, light snacks, especially if you are there for a longer visit.

Some dental spas may go a step ahead and combine their services with those of a medical practice.

Other facilities at the spar
As for the spa treatments, here's what you can expect:
* A clean, safe, calming and nurturing environment, private treatment rooms for each client receiving a personal service

* Professional spa products for which estheticians and therapists have received training in their use.

* Massages including Swedish, Lymph Drainage and Reflexology massages. Other types such as Shiatsu, Polarity, Sports, Deep tissue, and Deep muscle massages may be optional.

* One or more body treatments from among body packs and wraps, exfoliation, cellulite, body toning/contouring, waxing and homecare program would be available at any day spa. They may also offer services such as electrical impulse body toning, heat treatments, Ayurveda treatments, laser hair removal, electrolysis, hand and foot care, including manicure and pedicure.

* Cleansing facial and homecare program may be offered. But services such as medical facials, electrical toning, laser hair removal, electrolysis, cosmetics and make-up consultation may not be available in all spas.

* Aromatherapy, hydrotherapy or steam and sauna.

* Your dental spa may also offer nutritional counseling & weight management, a private trainer, Yoga, meditation and spa cuisine.

* Some may even offer a full service hair salon, scalp treatments and hair packs.