7 Healthcast: Dental spa

Plush pillows, fresh flowers, scented candles, soothing fountains. Going to the dentist has never been so relaxing.

The royal treatment is part of a trend at dental offices around the country.

"About 50 percent of them offer some amenities just to make patients feel a little bit more comfortable and at home," said Dr. Ada Cooper of the American Dental Association.

Patients at the Atlanta Center for Cosmetic Dentistry might think they're in a spa. They're given complimentary hand and neck messages while having their teeth worked on.

"If we're working on a patient that is relaxed, it makes our job a lot easier," said Dr. Debra King.

At the Mitchell Dental Spa in Chicago, patients are treated to free champagne in the waiting room and a cooling facial massage. The ADA encourages efforts to make a trip to the dentist more appealing, but has a warning.

"Fundamentally, if the dental care is not good, then all of these other things can really just serve as bells and whistles," Dr. Cooper said.

Dr. Cooper recommends talking with your dentist to make sure you're not just being pampered, but that you're getting the best treatment available.

The ADA says it's important to see your dentist at least twice a year. And remember to floss daily and brush your teeth twice a day to keep them healthy between visits.

(Copyright 2008 Sunbeam Television. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)