Scared of the dentist? Yeah, me too (swing set accident '79, scarred for life).

But it's often the office - read '94 Good Housekeeping mags, fluro lights, plastic plants and tragic footwear - as much as the treatment that creates the fear factor.

Which is why we're loving Pond's. Brainchild of couple Vatche Kassardjian (dentist) and his charming fashionista GF (who looks after everything else), this private practice is a true labour of love - and genuine attempt - to change the dreaded trip to the dentist.

Specialising in treating nervous patients and kids, the duo have taken special care to ensure the surroundings - all Eames, 60s Sapporetti furniture, and funky chairs - are as slick as the treatments.

Treatments include general dentistry, cosmetic (bleaching, clear braces, etc) and preventative, and the equipment is only the best (x-ray is a 30th of the usual dose). There are movies, herbal teas, late, weekend and emergency appointments, and you're even given a mobile number, should you need anything after hours.

And the best part is - Dr K takes the time to explain procedures every step of the way, so you really can try to stop clawing the chair.

Going to the dentist may never be fun, but a trip to Pond's is as close as it's going to get.