The world of Zoom boils down to two types of people: those who primp for calls, and those - like me - who shy away from the limelight.

I can't stand seeing myself on screen because I've fallen behind on all my essential in-office, self-care appointments. For instance, I haven't seen my dentist since a few months before lockdown and there was some plaque building up. Truthfully, I don't want to go back to Dr. Miller's ancient chair, harsh and blinding lights, and - worst of all - the obligatory lecture on my lackluster oral-care.

My friend suggested that I try Tend, a dental studio that's in our neighborhood. Why not check it out?

I hopped on the Tend site and was blown away by its cool, almost spa-like vibe. Tend offers a full range of dental services – everything from preventative care to implants, adult braces, and veneers. They're intent on providing a soothing environment for dental work with modern suites, next-level professionals, and state-of-the-art tech.

But what totally sold me was Tend's focus on hospitality. Their team puts my feelings first and promises no judgment ever.

My main concern is insurance. A dental experience this personalized must cost a lot, right? Turns out, Tend accepts most insurance and is in-network with major insurers like Delta Dental, Aetna, and Cigna.

Tendis also super transparent about the price. Their online calculator lets you know how much it'll cost before the appointment so you can sort out any potential out-of-pocket bills. So I just did it. I booked an appointment for the following week. Amazing - I couldn't believe how soon they could accommodate me. Plus, the entire process took about 5 minutes.

Within 24 hours I received an email with the good news that my insurance is in-network and that my appointment would likely be 100% covered.

Can I say that this was the first time in my life I ever looked forward to a dental appointment?!?

When I arrived at the gorgeous, sleek studio I was immediately put at ease by Tend's positive hospitality and safety-first attitude. Just imagine it: Contactless check-in. A room of your own with your name on it. A personal flatscreen with full Netflix access.

The real test was the exam itself. With their top-rate clinical team and noise-reducing equipment, Tend works hard to assuage your fears. I knew I was in good hands from the moment I took my place in the dental chair.

Also, Tend's doctors are compensated based on your decision to book again, so they only offer the care you actually need. Tend's staff payment model only benefits you.

Tend has locations all across New York including Grand Central, Chelsea, Wall Street, Flatiron, the Upper West Side, and Williamsburg - with more on their way.

Tend's friendly staff, transparent pricing, and soothing environment made me so happy I smiled all the way home.

While I may not join the ranks of those primping on Zoom, I'll be a much more active participant, thanks to Tend.

When we have a medical problem we rush to make a doctor's appointment, but do we do the same when it comes to our teeth? None of us like going to the dentist, it's a place filled with uncomfortable chairs, painful instruments, and long hours sitting in a less than ideal position

At least that's what we thought until our editors discovered Tend; a dental studio in NYC that is redefining the world of oral care. Tend offers a variety of services that span preventative, cosmetic, and orthopedic care, all done in a calm, judgment-free environment.

Many people put off the dentist for a variety of reasons, but Tend is helping people all over New York City stop dreading the dentist with their next-level offerings.

The Dentophobic

Favorite Feature: Advanced Technology and calm environment

Experience: I hate going to the dentist, I go only when I have to and even then I can't bear the pain. The suction nozzle, the sounds of the drill, and the dental probe felt so uncomfortable. I left vowing to never return again.

I never thought my dentist experience would change, that was until I stumbled upon Tend and their Advanced Technology. Their pain-minimizing and noise-reducing instruments really reassured me. I sat for an hour in the chair and got my fillings done, usually, I would be cringing and gripping the chair hard, but I never had to with Tend.

Tend's studios are relaxing and inviting, and they really put hospitality and the forefront of their business. I can even watch Netflix in the comfiest chair ever while having my work done!

The Skeptic

Favorite Feature: No upsell

Experience: I go to the dentist as regularly as I should but even still, they always give me lists of problems that I doubt are actually there. I thought of getting second and third opinions but they were all very expensive

Tend does things differently. Their dental professionals are compensated based on if you decide to book again - not by how much work you need. Other dental offices will upsell you on expensive procedures that may be premature or unnecessary. So shocking!

The pricing on the Tend website is also transparent so I know how much my procedure would roughly cost. Plus, they take a wide range of insurance; you can check to see if you're covered on their website before your appointment so you won't be hit with any sudden fees.

I love how upfront Tend is about price, I'll definitely be going to the dentist a lot more regularly now!

The Procrastinator

Favorite Feature: Looks and feels like a spa, no judgment

Experience: From the boring waiting rooms to the uncomfortable chairs, nothing about going to the dentist is an enjoyable experience.

Tendis different, I feel like I am walking into a five-star hotel or a spa. The space is warm and inviting while still remaining pristine the way you want with any medical facility. A contactless check-in, room with my name on it, and my own screen with Netflix access so I can watch Friends and let Chandler's sarcastic jokes mute the sound of the drills.

Plus, this was the first time I wasn't made to feel guilty for how long ago my last check-up was. The Tend professionals are nice, understanding, and will never tooth shame you.

Final Notes

Tend is the dental practice that has something for everyone to love. With locations all over New York- Grand Central, Williamsburg, Chelsea, Wall Street, Flatiron, and the Upper West Side, you won't have to go far to get the expert oral care you need.