Going to the dentist is rarely anyone’s idea of a great time. While we can’t make the experience appealing to most, Tampa Bay Dental Implants & Periodontics has found a way to make your dental visit less stressful. Meet our comfort dog, Luca.
Luca is a Coton De Tulear who Dr. Yu rescued from South Korea in the Summer of 2017. He has been a critical member of our dental team ever since. Luca is also hypoallergenic as to not irritate our patients who may have dander and fur allergies.
Comfort dogs are becoming more popular in many households and businesses. We are proud to be a pioneer in the dental industry by providing the comfort of Luca to our more apprehensive patients.
Comfort dogs like Luca can do more than just look cute and sit on your lap during your routine visits. Recent studies have shown that comfort dogs can lower blood pressure, heart rate, and anxiety, along with increasing levels of beneficial healing hormones such as endorphins and oxytocin. Oxytocin is an important hormone made by the brain which is critical to the healing process.
During your visit in our office we will always make sure you are comfortable with Luca before he joins you in our operatory. Unless you object, Luca is typically free to roam the hallways of our office looking for patients that can use a little bit of his affection.
Luca has been known to place his head on our patients laps or climb into the arm of the chair and nuzzle during routine cleanings. He has even been known to offer up his soft fur for you to pet as you receive anesthesia prior to surgical procedures.
If you are apprehensive about dental treatment, or would just like to make your office visit more enjoyable Luca is on the job. He is here Monday through Thursday during regular office hours and is ready to provide the ease you need for your next dental visit.