Athens dentist office has patients wanting to return

ATHENS - At first glance, Doctor Glenn Alex&#39;s dental office could be mistaken for a luxurious spa salon. <br> <br> Not only do patients have their teeth worked on, but they also can sip herbal tea, get a facial or even a soothing massage. <br> <br> And that&#39;s not all. <br> <br> Upon entering Alex&#39;s waiting room, patients are greeted by the aroma of scented candles. There&#39;s a bar, where they can treat themselves to milkshakes or Smoothies, then relax on plush, modern furniture while reading current magazines. <br> <br> It&#39;s certainly not a typical dentist&#39;s office, which was exactly what Alex had in mind when he began thinking about making changes to his practice four years ago. <br> <br> Alex said, ``We asked ourselves what could we do in our office to make people feel like they are not entering a dentist&#39;s office.&#39;&#39; <br> <br> Alex said his office is designed to make clients feel more comfortable and less stressed. <br> <br> All rooms are painted soft colors and feature large, uncovered windows with views of the wooded area surrounding the building. Once in the exam or dental hygienist rooms, welcoming notes greet each client and fragrant candles flicker while soft music plays. <br> <br> During tooth cleaning, patients are given a blanket, a CD player with their choice of music, aromatherapy, a warm face towel and even an herbal eye mask. Hot tea, warm mittens, herbal elixir and other luxuries are also available. <br> <br> Three years into the concept, he has more than 1,500 clients, more repeat visits and increased satisfaction.