Meet Willow – Our Therapy Dog

At Mint Dental Hygiene, patient comfort is intentionally designed — not left to chance.For patients who prefer a more relaxed, supported experience, we offer a structured, opt-in Calm Support Experience. This is a controlled, clinically considered approach designed to reduce stress, support emotional regulation, and enable consistent delivery of high-quality care.While particularly beneficial for those who feel unsettled during dental visits, many patients choose this simply because it enhances their overall experience.When not requested, Willow remains in a separate, designated space and is not present during appointments, ensuring the clinical environment remains calm, controlled, and fully aligned with individual patient preference.
Willow

A Calmer Way to Experience Dental Care

Dental visits can feel overwhelming for some patients.Willow provides a gentle, reassuring presence that helps reduce tension and create a more relaxed environment.For patients who request it, Willow can sit calmly on your lap during treatment — always on a dedicated clean blanket for your and her comfort.

The potential benefits of therapy dog

In healthcare settings, a properly trained therapy dog has been shown to:- Lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels- Reduce heart rate and blood pressure in anxious patients- Improve emotional regulation during longer procedures- Create a grounding effect for patients who feel overwhelmed in clinical environmentsFor some individuals, this can mean:- Greater ability to attend and complete appointments- Less anticipatory anxiety before visits- Improved trust and sense of safety within the clinic- This is not universal — and it is not assumed.

Structured, Optional, and Always Patient-Led

Willow is:- Delivered within clearly defined clinical and hygiene protocols.- Introduced only on request- Kept separate from clinical areas at all other times, she is not free roaming.- Trained to remain calm and settled during appointments- This is a fully optional part of your visit, and your preferences are always respected.

Hygiene, allergies, and clinical standards

Willow is a non‑shedding breed, selected with hygiene and allergy considerations in mind. That said:- Infection control standards will never be compromised- Any future involvement would be secondary to clinical care- Clear protocols govern where, when, and how she is present

Clear boundaries — no personal dogs

Mint Dental Hygiene is a professional healthcare clinic.For clarity and consistency:- Patients may not bring personal dogs- Registered assistance dogs are, of course, welcomed in line with legal requirements- Any future therapy support would be limited strictly to Willow under controlled conditionsThis ensures safety, predictability, and respect for all patients and Willow.