Patient Testimonials
As a child, our family dentist was brutal and even my brothers will attest to that. But, being kids, our parents just thought we were exaggerating and going to the dentist was an unpleasant necessity. I can remember hiding in a tree, at the age of 6, to avoid going to see mean old Dr. ******. Through the years I did go to the dentist but slacked off when I was in my forties. Fast forward to age 52. The amalgam fillings were cracking my molars. Time to see a dentist. I picked Bethesda Sedation Dentistry and I am very happy I did. The team is up-to-date on the latest dental technology and, more importantly, they are compassionate and care about me. I have moved from Maryland to Colorado and still come back to Bethesda Sedation Dentistry twice a year.
Karen
Dear Dr. Rob, Dr. Deb, Adrienne, Cathy, Diane, Dora, and Kimberly
I’ve suffered from dental phobia all of my life. Before I came to you, every dental appointment left me feeling traumatized. By my early 20’s, my phobia was debilitating; I couldn’t bear to see or think about anything dental related. It was terribly embarrassing, and I felt humiliated and ashamed.
I knew I would have to overcome my terror somehow so I could get the care I needed, but I just couldn’t do it. It had been ten years since I’d been to see a dentist. And then, a few months ago, I cracked a tooth.
I was horrified, of course, because now there was an emergency situation forcing my hand. I didn’t have a dentist, and I didn’t know how I was going to find someone who could help me without making my phobia worse. Bruce, thinking that sedation dentistry would be my best option, found your website through a Google search. I spent a LONG time reading and re-reading everything there, especially the testimonials, which I found incredibly touching. (though they sounded almost too good to be true- how wrong I was!) Somehow I knew your office was my best chance in making it through what lay ahead, so Bruce called and left a message about making an appointment.
This may sound silly to you, but being reassured that we could “leave a message of any length” was our first clue that yours is an office so different from the majority of medical professionals out there—and we’ve dealt with more than our share the past few years. And when Adrienne returned our call, Bruce and I were so impressed with her desire to obtain as thorough an understanding of my situation as possible, while showing such kindness and compassion, that we were quite literally shocked.
My first consultation was a few days later, and I could barely get out of the car. I joked with Bruce that he had better take me by the arm, or I’d run off as quickly as possible and never look back. I was shaking so badly when we approached your office, and was amazed to see Adrienne standing there as if she were waiting for us. She greeted me by name before I even told her who I was, and she smiled so warmly, so kindly, and spoke so reassuringly that I felt I could let my guard down a little. She talked with us until Dr. Rob came to meet us in the waiting room.
Dr. Rob was warm, gentle, and unassuming. He took special care to assure me that I was in control, that I could set my own boundaries. That first consultation made such an impression on me. Dr. Rob asked so many questions- he seemed interested in me as a person in need of dental care, not as a patient name or ID number. I was shocked to discover that I felt comfortable enough to go back right then and there and allow Cathy to take x-rays. I have to say, Cathy intimidated me at first, because she was in control of those scary machines, but she soon had me laughing as she kept knocking into things- just like me. We were all actually laughing and joking with one another. I never thought I could do that in a dentist’s office! (And we still laugh and joke, which is absolutely wonderful!)
Everyone introduced themselves during those first two consultations, and even though I was too anxious to recall your names at first, I recalled your smiling faces. Not “business-smiles,” but genuine, friendly, open smiles. That was my first impression of Kimberly and Diane.
Since then, every single interaction Bruce and I have had with you all has left us gobsmacked. We have never experienced- or heard of anyone else experiencing –the incredible, professional dental care that you provide, in an atmosphere where people feel truly comfortable – even relaxed. Or-gasp!- Happy!
I’m sure that the office atmosphere is a result of the conscious choices you make each day to do your jobs with excellence and compassion. But you go above and beyond: You don’t HAVE to be so funny or so kind (and all of you are!) You don’t HAVE to give out your cell phone number and allow nervous patients to call you with questions about an upcoming appointment during a holiday weekend (Dr. Rob!). You don’t have to be a rock star with a needle (Dr. Deb!). You don’t have to call and check up on someone when you’re in a car on your way to the beach (Cathy!). You don’t have to hold my hand or stroke my hair, like Dora did – and Cathy too. You don’t have to ask questions about my life and remember the names of all four of my cats, like Diane did. (And these are just a handful of examples…)
You don’t have to treat us as though we’re your friends, but you do- all of you do. To you these things may seem like everyday actions, but to me, and others like me, they are extraordinary. You make such an incredible difference. Empathy changes lives. If every medical office were run according to your standards of skill and compassion, there would be a lot less suffering in the world and a lot less fear.
Sitting in that (very comfortable) blue chair may never be a thrilling experience, but thanks to all of you, I can face it. I’m not scared anymore.
Thank you so very much!!
Jennifer
…being the "scared-y cat" that I am, as far as dentists are concerned, I have been happily surprised at how much I enjoy my visits to the office…I think each of you is welcoming, caring and so kind. You all have done everything beyond the call of duty to allay my fears…I really do think you are wonderful and thank you for holding my hand…
Mary, April 2010
I am a professional female college graduate who spent 25+ years working for two Fortune 100 companies in high profile roles.
I had not seen a dentist, or any other medical professional for that matter, for 18 years until I reached out to Dr. Dougherty and the Bethesda Sedation Dentistry team, in April, 2008. At first, no real issues that needed attention enabled me to avoid doctors’ visits, and then when medical problems presented themselves, the dental issues especially painful at times, fear, embarrassment and shame prevented me from reaching out.
Finally, some way-too-old dental work started to fall out of my front teeth therefore preventing me from hiding behind my problems any longer. I had heard Bethesda Sedation Dentistry’s advertisements on the radio for years and knew that when I either found the courage to or was forced to confront my dental fear, I would reach out to Dr. Dougherty and his team.
Cathy answered my first call to the office. My first words were “stop the madness”. She was kind, concerned, attentive, and then, she put me on hold. Next, I was speaking to Dr. Dougherty. My journey began the next day when I arrived for my first dental appointment in 18 years. I was embarrassed but at the same time so very proud of myself for having finally taken this necessary step. One of Ed’s first comments to me was "you have a dentist now." I felt safe.
As part of Bethesda Sedation Dentistry’s thorough screening prior to beginning dental treatment, I learned my blood pressure was “emergency room” high. Dr. Dougherty referred me to a Bethesda-based cardiologist. Again, I was fearful that something might be very wrong and ashamed to see him because it had been so long since I had seen any medical professional. He too was compassionate, non-judgmental and kind, and confirmed all was okay. I will need blood pressure medication for the rest of my life to keep it in check and I am so thankful to have it under control. The cardiologist referred me to an OB-GYN who, too, was great – no lecture, no judgment – just a willingness to help and to get me on track which I am now.
Thanks to Bethesda Sedation Dentistry, a year later, I have healthy teeth and gums and a smile I’m proud of. Friends and colleagues comment to me all the time that I seem happier and more confident. It was a lot of work, but with the support of Dr. Dougherty and his incredibly supportive and kind team, I made it.
Ed, Iona, Cathy, Kimberly, Dora, and Diane, thank you. You’ve changed my life.
Dear Dr. Dougherty et al,
My brother Chip called me yesterday to thank me for sending him to you. He was so very impressed with the care he received, and the time and care spent on him, he kept thanking me. I of course, continue to appreciate the kindness, high degree professionalism, and the overall excellence of care that everyone in your office consistently provides. I just want to take the time to say that I also thank you!
Have a great day,
Martha
This is NOT a testimonial to Dr Dougherty and his ENTIRE staff. I am just one of many who have tremendous gratitude toward them. This is NOT about sedation dentistry. There are several sedation dentists. This testimonial is to reach out to those of you who are too ashamed and embarrassed to go to the dentist. I hadn’t gone to a dentist in years. I was ashamed, embarrassed, frightened and a basket case. If you look at any before pictures on the internet, my smile was the worst. During my first visit with Dr. Dougherty, I was a wreck. He was compassionate and non judgmental. No lectures, just “I’m here to help attitude”. Then there is Iona, Kimberly, Cathy, Diane, and Dora, they all act the same way! Imagine that. So, after periodontal treatment, fillings, crowns, braces, veneers, a bridge and a year and a half later, I’m done (except for the checkups and cleanings of course). I was born with a mouth that looked like a pumpkin. For the first time in my 57 years of existence, I’m proud of my smile. I trusted Dr. Dougherty and he did a fabulous job. Do it, go to Dr. Dougherty. Do it for your health, your self esteem and because it’s easy and pain free. I wish I had years ago.
Bernie
Dear Dr. Dougherty, lovely lady Iona and friends,
Thanks so very much for the gorgeous flowers you sent home with me recently. They have been a beautiful reminder of the loving care you all have provided to both Pat and me over the last year and a half. I never would have been able to have all of this work done with anyone else. Your patience, compassion and professionalism are absolutely unmatched. We recommend your practice highly and without hesitation.
Thanks to each of you for making what feels (to me) like a terrifying experience into a truly pleasant one! I never thought I’d say that before coming to your office.
Fondly,
Denise
Dr. Dougherty, Iona, Kathy, Kimberly, Diane and Dora,
Thank you so very much for your kind care of me last Thursday. I continue to be amazed at your level of humanity, humility and care. Even though I know I will be taken care of whenever I enter your office – because of my phobia it is still very hard to handle. Try as I might I am still grappling. I get frustrated with myself and embarrassed.
Now this is the point I really want to make – beyond your expertise which is world-class (all of you are experts in your field) - it is your willingness, your sincere desire to make me feel safe in showing my fear that is so special. That I feel safe in your care allows me to face my fear and continue on the path to health and recovery.
I am so grateful – these words fall short of truly describing my feelings for this experience – but I will just say “thank you as always.”
-Shari
Click here to download an audio testimonial
- Edie
Hi there -- Thanks for the mail; it's funny I was recently thinking of writing to you. I relocated to New York City last year, and I have to say I was spoiled with your dental team. A cleaning I had here was quite uncomfortable, which has never happened to me before. Then during a two-filling replacement, the dentist initially didn't numb me enough (ouch). You and your team are always thorough, current in the field and nice to spend time with. I hope that you're all doing well, and please give my best to Kimberly and Iona --
- Claire
Ed, Iona, Cathy, Kathy, and the rest of the staff;
For all of my adult life I have had so much apprehension about seeing a dentist that it kept me from receiving dental care. I even avoided dentist when a visit would have been free while I was in the US Air Force. But, time and neglect eventually won the battle and I had to see a dentist.
The search for a good dentist is not an easy one. I started my dental search at the Sedation Spa with Dr. Burch. I was not happy with the treatment (both the medical treatment and the way I was treated as a customer). So I left them. A friend told me about Dr. Dougherty and his great staff so I decided to give you all a call and I am so happy I did.
I know I have been a pain in the neck. I know I am a difficult patient with very illogical fears. I appreciate all that each of you has done for me. Everyone there has been great and I could go on about all of your employees. But I wish to say thank you to Cathy for the conversation, the compliments, and making me feel as comfortable as possible as I wait for the procedure (and the drugs to take affect). I want to thank the other Kathy for taking time to call and check up on me and help me through the administrative parts of my visit there. Iona. thank you for always being interested in how I feel, eager to cheer me up and always prepared to deal with my fragile state whenever I am visiting your office. And thank you Dr. Dougherty. You have put up with my whining and fears the whole time, with obvious understanding and sympathy. You all have been tremendous. Every one there is such a joy. You have all made my most feared times so much more than just bearable.
I know I am not done and I have more appointments to come, but I wanted you all to know how much easier this has been than I ever thought was possible. With what you have done for me I am no longer as terrified as I once was.
Thank you all so much,
Matthew
Dear Dr. Dougherty, Dora, Cathy & Staff,
I wanted to take the time to write you a short Thank You note for the extreme kindness and expertise given to me during my recent dental emergency and care. Due to my dental fear, I had not seen a dentist in several years. I was beyond nervous about the whole experience! From my first phone call to your office and talking with kind lona, I was treated with respect and care. I found Dr. Dougherty to be patient, kind and knowledgeable, and I quickly trusted him with my dental care, something that has been difficult since my move to Maryland. Needless to say, I had a great deal of anxiety before my root canal procedure and the sedation experience also. I had worried myself into a frenzy beforehand! But, to my surprise overall it was a good experience. Thank You Dora and Cathy for taking such good care of me and putting up with my nervousness and talking while I was sedated. I want to especially thank Dora for holding my hand before & during the procedure, you don't know how comforting that was for me. The music, warm blankets and gentle kindness all added to my overall comfort! Also appreciated were the phone calls later that day to check up on me - a very nice touch.
I am feeling well, no pain. I felt tired for a couple days afterwards, but I think that was due to the nervousness I put myself through beforehand. I am already starting the anxiety and worry about my next appointment on 3/17 for my exam and to find out what treatment lies ahead, crown etc. But I want you to know I feel better knowing that with your expertise, kindness, and yes sedation I can get through it!
So glad I found your office!
Sincerely,
Marilyn