7 Signs You Might Need Dentures: A Union City Dentist’s Perspective
When it comes to maintaining oral health, it’s essential to recognize the signs that indicate a need for dental intervention. As a Union City dentist, Dr. Dipali Dave and her team at Dream Smile Dental are committed to providing exceptional care and support to our patients. One of the topics that often arises during consultations is the need for dentures. Dentures in Union City can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals who have experienced tooth loss, whether due to decay, injury, or other dental issues. In this article, we will delve into the seven signs that may indicate you need dentures and how our team can assist you in this journey toward better oral health. 1. Frequent Toothaches or Sensitivity One of the first signs you may need dentures in Union City is experiencing frequent toothaches or heightened sensitivity. As teeth age or suffer from decay, they can become weak, leading to discomfort during daily activities such as eating and drinking. If you find yourself reaching for pain relievers more often than you’d like or avoiding certain foods due to sensitivity, it may be time to consult with us at Dream Smile Dental. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more severe dental issues, including tooth loss. Dr. Dave and her skilled team will conduct a thorough examination to assess the condition of your teeth and gums. If your teeth are beyond repair, dentures can be a viable solution, allowing you to regain functionality and comfort in your mouth. 2. Noticeable Tooth Loss Tooth loss is perhaps the most obvious indicator that you may need dentures. Whether you’ve lost a single tooth or several, the gaps in your smile can affect not only your appearance but also your ability to chew effectively. The aesthetic aspect of tooth loss can significantly impact your self-esteem and confidence. At Dream Smile Dental, we emphasize the importance of addressing tooth loss promptly. Missing teeth can lead to further dental complications, including shifting teeth, bite problems, and jawbone deterioration. Our team can help determine the best solution for your dental needs, including partial or full dentures, tailored to restore your smile and enhance your oral function. 3. Difficulty Chewing or Speaking If you are experiencing challenges while chewing food or find it difficult to speak clearly, this could signal the need for dentures. Missing teeth can alter your bite, making it hard to enjoy your favorite foods or pronounce words correctly. This can lead to frustration and embarrassment in social situations. Dentures can dramatically improve your ability to chew and speak, allowing you to enjoy meals and communicate confidently. Our team utilizes advanced technology and techniques to ensure that your dentures fit comfortably and securely, providing you with the support needed for everyday activities. 4. Changes in Facial Structure Another sign that dentures might be necessary is noticeable changes in your facial structure. Teeth play a vital role in supporting the facial muscles, and when you lose them, you may begin to notice sagging or changes in your jawline. This can create an aged appearance, making you appear older than you are. At Dream Smile Dental, we understand the importance of aesthetics in dental health. Well-fitted dentures can restore the natural contour of your face, providing support and enhancing your overall appearance. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that your new smile not only looks great but also feels natural. 5. Bad Breath or Gum Disease Chronic bad breath or persistent gum disease can be signs of underlying dental issues that may necessitate dentures. When teeth are missing, bacteria can accumulate in the mouth, leading to infections and bad breath. Additionally, gum disease can progress, causing further tooth loss and complications. If you are struggling with oral hygiene despite regular brushing and flossing, it’s crucial to seek professional advice. At Dream Smile Dental, we prioritize preventive care and education. Our team can evaluate your oral health and recommend appropriate treatments, including the potential for dentures to improve your overall dental condition. 6. Your Existing Dentures Are No Longer Comfortable For those who already wear dentures, discomfort or a poor fit can indicate that it’s time for a replacement. Over time, the shape of your gums and jawbone can change, leading to ill-fitting dentures that can be uncomfortable and ineffective. This can cause difficulty eating and speaking, and a lack of confidence in your smile. At Dream Smile Dental, we offer comprehensive denture services, including adjustments and replacements. If you find yourself struggling with uncomfortable dentures, our team is here to help ensure you have a functional and comfortable solution that meets your needs. 7. Increased Self-Consciousness About Your Smile Finally, if you find yourself feeling increasingly self-conscious about your smile, it may be time to consider dentures. Your smile is often one of the first things people notice about you, and feeling embarrassed about missing teeth can affect your social interactions and overall quality of life. At Dream Smile Dental, we believe everyone deserves to feel confident in their smile. Dentures in Union City can restore not just your teeth but also your self-esteem, allowing you to engage fully in life without the worry of hiding your smile. Our compassionate team is dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile through personalized care and advanced dental solutions. The Journey to Getting Dentures If you identify with any of these signs, the first step is to schedule a consultation with Dream Smile Dental. Our experienced team will conduct a comprehensive examination, discuss your concerns, and explore the best options for your dental needs. We take pride in our patient-centered approach, ensuring that you feel comfortable and informed throughout the process. Once we determine that dentures are the right choice for you, we will work closely with you to create a customized treatment plan. This may involve taking impressions of your mouth, selecting the right materials, and ensuring that your dentures fit perfectly. Our commitment to quality means that we use only the
5 Benefits of Choosing a Pediatric Dentist for Your Child’s Oral Health
When it comes to your child’s dental health, selecting the right dentist is a crucial decision that can significantly impact their oral care experience. While general dentists can provide adequate care, a pediatric dentist specializes in the unique needs of children’s dental health. At Dream Smile Dental, we understand the importance of providing tailored care for children, ensuring their visits are not only effective but also enjoyable. Here are five compelling benefits of choosing a pediatric dentist for your child’s oral health. 1. Specialized Training and Expertise One of the primary advantages of visiting a pediatric dentist is their specialized training. Pediatric dentists complete additional years of education focused specifically on treating children’s dental issues, including developmental stages, behavioral management, and specific treatment techniques for young patients. This expertise allows them to recognize common dental problems in children early on, ensuring timely interventions that can prevent more serious issues in the future. Our team, led by experienced professionals, is committed to providing the highest level of care uniquely suited for your child’s needs. 2. A Child-Friendly Environment Pediatric dentists design their practices to be welcoming and friendly for children. From colorful decor to fun dental-themed toys, these environments help reduce anxiety and make dental visits less intimidating. The staff is trained to communicate effectively with children, using language they can understand and techniques that help them feel at ease. We prioritize creating a positive atmosphere that encourages children to develop good oral hygiene habits while feeling comfortable and safe during their visits. 3. Focus on Preventive Care and Education Preventive care is essential in pediatric dentistry, and a pediatric dentist places a strong emphasis on educating both children and their parents about proper oral hygiene practices. By teaching children how to care for their teeth and explaining the importance of regular dental check-ups, pediatric dentists help instill lifelong habits that promote good oral health. We believe that educating our young patients about their dental health empowers them to take an active role in maintaining their smiles. Our team is dedicated to providing valuable resources and guidance tailored to your child’s individual needs. 4. Management of Dental Anxiety Many children experience dental anxiety, which can lead to avoidance of necessary dental care. Pediatric dentists are trained to understand and manage this anxiety effectively. They use gentle techniques and positive reinforcement to help children feel comfortable during their appointments. Additionally, pediatric dentists are skilled at identifying signs of fear and can adjust their approach to better suit the child’s emotional state. We work hard to ensure every visit is a positive experience, helping children overcome their fears and develop a trusting relationship with dental care. 5. Comprehensive, Developmental Care Children’s dental needs change as they grow, and a pediatric dentist is equipped to handle these changes throughout the various stages of development. From the eruption of baby teeth to the transition to permanent teeth, pediatric dentists provide comprehensive care that addresses each stage of dental growth. They monitor oral development closely and can identify potential issues such as misalignment or cavities before they become problematic. Our focus on ongoing care allows us to support your child’s oral health from their first tooth through adolescence, ensuring they receive the appropriate treatments and guidance for every stage of their dental journey. A Commitment to Your Child’s Dental Health At Dream Smile Dental, we understand that choosing a pediatric dentist is a significant decision for parents. Our mission is to deliver exceptional care tailored to the unique needs of our young patients. We pride ourselves on creating a supportive, friendly environment where children can feel comfortable and confident in their dental visits. Whether it’s their first check-up or ongoing dental care, we are here to partner with you in promoting your child’s oral health. Schedule an Appointment Today If you are considering the best dental care for your child, look no further than Dream Smile Dental. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care that prioritizes your child’s comfort and well-being. Don’t wait until issues arise; regular visits to a pediatric dentist can help prevent problems and ensure your child’s smile remains bright and healthy. Together, we can create a positive dental experience that sets the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health. Your child deserves the best, and we are here to provide it with care and expertise. Frequently Asked Questions: 1. What is the difference between a pediatric dentist and a general dentist?A pediatric dentist specializes in the dental care of children, completing additional years of training focused on treating young patients. This includes understanding developmental stages, behavior management, and specific treatment techniques for kids. While general dentists can treat children, pediatric dentists are specifically trained to address the unique needs of growing children. 2. At what age should my child visit a pediatric dentist?It’s recommended that children have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of the eruption of their first tooth. Early visits help ensure healthy dental development and establish good habits. Regular visits thereafter help prevent issues and monitor growth. 3. How do pediatric dentists manage children’s dental anxiety?Pediatric dentists are trained to identify and manage dental anxiety in children. They use gentle techniques, positive reinforcement, and kid-friendly language to make visits more comfortable. Creating a friendly, welcoming atmosphere also helps reduce fear, ensuring children feel safe during their appointments. 4. How often should my child visit a pediatric dentist?Children should visit a pediatric dentist every six months for regular check-ups and cleanings. These visits allow the dentist to monitor your child’s oral development, spot any potential issues early, and provide preventive care to maintain healthy teeth and gums. 5. Are the treatments at a pediatric dentist safe for my child?Yes, pediatric dentists are specifically trained to provide safe and appropriate care for children. They use child-friendly dental materials and techniques, ensuring that treatments are gentle and effective for young patients. Additionally, pediatric dentists are skilled at assessing and managing your
7 Signs You Should Take Your Child to the Dentist
As parents, ensuring the health and well-being of our children is a top priority. One essential aspect of their health is oral care, which is often overlooked until a problem arises. Recognizing when to take your child to the dentist for children is crucial for maintaining their dental health and preventing future issues. Here are seven signs that indicate it’s time to schedule a visit to the dentist. 1. Persistent Tooth Pain Toothaches can be a common occurrence in children, but if your child complains of persistent tooth pain, it is a clear sign that they need to see a dentist. Pain can indicate several issues, such as cavities, dental infections, or even a loose tooth. Ignoring this pain can lead to more serious problems down the line, making it essential to address it promptly. Our compassionate team is dedicated to making your child’s dental experience as pleasant as possible, ensuring they feel comfortable and cared for during their visit. 2. Difficulty Chewing or Biting If your child experiences discomfort or difficulty while chewing or biting, it could suggest an underlying dental issue. This may be due to tooth decay, misalignment, or even gum problems. When chewing becomes a challenge, it can affect your child’s nutrition and overall health. Our team values patient comfort and aims to identify and resolve these issues with advanced technology and personalized care. 3. Bleeding Gums Noticing blood on your child’s toothbrush or when they eat can be alarming. Bleeding gums may indicate gum disease, which can progress if not treated. Early intervention is key to preventing more severe dental issues. At our practice, we focus on educating families about preventive care, empowering parents to take proactive steps for their children’s oral health. 4. Bad Breath While bad breath can occasionally occur after a meal, persistent bad breath—or halitosis—can signal dental issues such as cavities or gum disease. If your child’s breath smells unpleasant despite proper oral hygiene practices, it’s time to consult a dentist. Our team is committed to identifying the root cause of bad breath and providing effective treatment solutions, ensuring your child leaves with a fresh, clean smile. 5. Changes in Tooth Color Pay attention to any noticeable changes in your child’s teeth, such as discoloration or spots. These changes can indicate the presence of cavities or enamel erosion. It’s important to address these issues quickly, as they can lead to more severe dental problems if left untreated. Our experienced dental team utilizes advanced technology to assess your child’s dental health and recommend appropriate treatments to restore their smile. 6. Early Loss of Baby Teeth While it is normal for children to lose their baby teeth, losing them too early can lead to alignment issues and other complications. If your child loses a baby tooth unexpectedly, it is essential to visit a dentist for children to ensure there are no underlying issues. We provide guidance on maintaining proper dental development and address any concerns you may have regarding your child’s oral health. 7. Dental Trauma or Injury Children are often active and prone to accidents, which can result in dental trauma. Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth, a chipped tooth, or any injury to the mouth, it’s critical to seek immediate dental care. Timely intervention can prevent further damage and ensure your child’s dental health is safeguarded. Our caring staff is well-equipped to handle dental emergencies, providing your child with the care they need in a supportive environment. Creating a Positive Dental Experience At Dream Smile Dental, we understand that visiting the dentist can be a daunting experience for children. We strive to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere where your child feels comfortable and relaxed. Our dedicated team is passionate about educating and encouraging children to develop good oral hygiene habits from a young age. Encouraging Preventive Care Prevention is vital in ensuring your child’s dental health remains optimal. Regular check-ups and cleanings at our office will help detect any potential issues early on and provide your child with the guidance they need for proper oral care at home. We emphasize the importance of preventive dentistry, helping children understand the role they play in maintaining their own oral health. Frequently Asked Questions: 1. At what age should I start taking my child to the dentist?It’s recommended to take your child to the dentist by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth erupts. Early visits allow your child to become familiar with the dental office and help address any early dental issues. 2. What should I do if my child has a persistent toothache?If your child complains of a persistent toothache, it’s important to schedule a visit to the dentist for children as soon as possible. Tooth pain can be a sign of cavities, infections, or other dental issues that require prompt treatment to avoid further complications. 3. How can I tell if my child has gum disease?Bleeding gums, especially when brushing or eating, can be a sign of gum disease. If you notice this, it’s crucial to consult a dentist for children to evaluate your child’s oral health. Early treatment can prevent the condition from progressing. 4. What can I do if my child has bad breath?Bad breath can be caused by a variety of dental problems, including cavities, gum disease, or poor oral hygiene. If your child has persistent bad breath despite regular brushing, it’s time to schedule a dental check-up to identify the cause and get appropriate treatment. 5. Should I be concerned if my child’s teeth change color?Any noticeable discoloration or spots on your child’s teeth could indicate cavities or enamel erosion. These changes should be examined by a dentist to determine the cause and prevent further damage to your child’s teeth. 6. What should I do if my child loses a baby tooth too early?While losing baby teeth is a natural part of childhood, losing them too early can cause alignment issues or other dental problems. If your child loses a tooth unexpectedly,
Your teeth don’t have to show your age
We can’t stop ageing ? but we can make the best of what we already have. Looking after your skin and general appearance is one step. But what about your teeth? They are a revealing sign of ageing ? yet surprising things can be done today to reverse this process, says Dr. George Druttman, of Cap600 London City Dental www.cap600.com Staying young-lookingTeeth are one of the first features that people look at. Our teeth deteriorate over the years, gradually taking on more and more imperfections that betray our age ? or make us look even older than we really are. In Western society, where one in six people will soon be over 65, everybody wants to stay as young-looking as possible. So how can a 50-year old stay young-looking? Well, maybe she has fortunate genes, looks after her skin regularly (often in addition to great genes) and has had excellent cosmetic facial surgery. To look at her, you wouldn’t be able to guess her true age ? until she starts smiling. Then her mouth gives the game away. How? Because of the state of her teeth. Signs of ageing ? your teethSo how do your teeth betray your age? Their colour changes over time, losing brightness and luminosity, and becoming darker. Dental wear will shorten teeth, making them look ?stubby’. Years of food, nicotine and fluid stains can also stain teeth permanently. Tooth shape: The natural smile line is a gentle convex. But extensive wear on our front teeth can change this to a straight or even concave line (reversed curve). Tooth grinding (prompted by stress), accelerates this dental erosion. Chipped tooth edges are another sign, creating an unbalanced and disharmonious look. Tooth surface: The fine ridges on young teeth get smoothed away as we get older. While in early adulthood such smoothing can produce attractive teeth that reflect light more uniformly, too much smoothing will show age. Tooth crack lines: Over time, micro-fractures can appear on the enamel surface. While perhaps superficial, they can show up as little crack lines, which will downgrade the attractiveness of teeth. Filled front teeth: White fillings in front teeth need to be regularly replaced or they change colour and start to look obvious. They may even show dark lines between the edge of the filling and the natural tooth. Smile colour: White reflects light and dark absorbs it. A mouth with silver-mercury (amalgam) fillings in many of the teeth will present an overall dull grey colour that absorbs light and therefore looks dark. It’s another sign of ageing. Signs of ageing ? your lipsOver time the lips lose muscle tone and become thinner and narrower. The top lip can sag, covering more of the upper teeth. The lower lip may also drop, showing more of the lower teeth. If you had fairly thin lips when young, then they will become even more so. Also thin vertical lines appear in the lips, which are accentuated and hastened by smoking. Crease lines can also appear at the corners of the lips, often with a more significant, deeper crease line, angled downward, which can make you look permanently unhappy. What can you do restore youthful looks?Your smile is the key to your facial appearance. So you need to do something about any old, worn, chipped and discoloured teeth you have and remove these obvious clues to ageing. The essence in good cosmetic/ aesthetic dentistry is to combine modern techniques with artistic flair – so that nobody can guess what’s been done. Ways of improving your teethRe-contouring: A little bleaching whitens the teeth and slight reshaping restores the edges of the teeth to what they were in youth. Replacing fillings: Using modern materials for the front and most prominent teeth can cause the dental restoration work to blend in with the general colour of the tooth. Bonding: A synthetic material that looks like natural tooth enamel is bonded to the enamel tooth surface. Because it can be shaped and polished, this material can alter the colour, texture, size, shape and even, to an extent, the position of the teeth. The treatment can be applied to the eight to twelve upper front teeth. It lasts from three to six years. Veneering: A technique similar to bonding ? only more permanent. A thin, hard porcelain veneer is individually made for each tooth to the correct colour, size and shape. Porcelain is as durable as the original tooth enamel so the restored tooth will last for decades rather than years. Veneering is often done on front incisor teeth that have been damaged. Improving your lipsThin lips can be treated by using fillers to accentuate the lip line (vermillion border) between the red part of the lips and the normal skin. These fillers are, for example, bovine collagen, or natural hyaluronic acid (Restylane). The effect lasts up to twelve months. The substance of the lip can also be increased by injecting Restylane or even fat from another part of the body into the lip itself. The result, of course, depends on how much and where it is placed. So how can your smile make you look younger?Look in the mirror for a few minutes. Decide what parts of your face, and particularly your smile, you would like to rejuvenate using the techniques mentioned above. Then consult with a cosmetic dental surgeon, who can show you an accurate simulation of how treatment would look on your face. It is advisable to do this before going ahead with any cosmetic surgery on your face. Most cosmetic medical surgeons are still not orientated or even knowledgeable enough about what cosmetic dentists are able to achieve with teeth. A few short dental treatments can take years off your looks, helping you evaluate whether other surgery is necessary. Dr. George Druttman, Cap600 London City Dental www.cap600.com About the author: Dr George Druttman is an experienced Cosmetic Dentist running a specialized dental practice Cap600 London City Dental in the UK. His web site is www.cap600.com
Demystifying root canal treatment
Many people have a deep-seated fear of root canal (endodontic) treatment. They will say ?not as bad as a root canal? ? as if it is one of the worst human experiences. Such fears are unfounded. In professional hands, root canal treatment is the best way to keep your natural teeth and preserve good dental health. By having better information about this treatment, you will understand why it is often called ?the tooth saver’, says endodontics specialist Dr. Tony Druttmanwww.londonendo.co.uk Life doesn’t always play us a fair hand. Most of us try to keep our teeth in reasonable condition because we know that long-term neglect can be painful, both in the mouth and pocket. Yet there are occasions when unnoticed changes take place to our teeth. We only become aware of this when we have dental pain or our dentist discovers an underlying problem during a routine inspection. The following advice about root canal treatment will help to put your mind at ease. A dental microscope allows precise inspection of the tooth root. Should anecdotal evidence influence you? Very often patients describe their root canal experiences with terms like ?it was very painful? and ?I had to go back six times?. That’s unfortunate, but not the way things need to be. When carried out correctly, the endodontics procedure is no worse than having a normal filling, although it may take a little longer. People often agree to root canal treatment with reluctance, when there seems to be little other choice. In fact it is the best solution in cases of substantial dental damage or decay. Advice by a dentist will give you a clearer picture than advice by other patients. Why do teeth need root treatment?The nerve and blood vessels in the tooth (known as ?dental pulp’) are there to help the tooth grow to maturity. They protect against bacteria within the body. Bacteria play a defensive role in the general mouth area, but can become destructive when they attack the body via the dental pulp or through gum disease. In fact, recent research has found a correlation between gum disease and coronary heart disease. Bacteria cause decay in teeth. When the decay is deep, it can allow bacteria to invade the dental pulp ? the living tissue inside your teeth. Your dentist removes the decay in the tooth to protect the pulp and to restore the function and appearance of the tooth. However repeated bacterial attacks can weaken the pulp to such an extent that the nerve can no longer recover, and so the pulp dies. How do you know if something is wrong?The point is ? you don’t always know. Different nerve systems within the pulp will cause the tooth to respond in different ways. The nerve may die quietly and never cause any symptoms. It may be a chance x-ray that alerts the dentist to a problem. Alternatively the dying nerve may cause a great deal of pain and be very difficult to locate. When the nerve becomes irreversibly damaged, then either the pulp or the tooth has to be removed. Will a root-treated tooth feel different?The treated tooth is referred to as being dead because it has lost its internal nerve and blood vessels. However there is still a nerve and blood supply to the outside surface of the tooth, so the successfully root-treated tooth should feel normal. Is there an alternative to endodontic treatment?If you choose not to have root treatment, your affected tooth will be extracted. Should you fill the space? That depends on functional and aesthetic grounds. People today are aware of their mouth and smile, so someone displaying unaesthetic black gaps between their teeth may feel self-conscious about speaking or smiling. Back teeth may not be immediately noticed in a smile, but they are very important in terms of chewing function. Every tooth stabilizes the teeth adjacent to it and those immediately above or below. If it is removed and not replaced, other teeth may well shift from their natural positions. This will stimulate problems with gum disease, food packing (leading to further decay) and bite problems. If a tooth needs extracting, what next?Teeth can be replaced with bridges, implants or removable dentures and the possibilities should be discussed with your own dentist. Implants have revolutionized restorative dentistry and can be an excellent substitute for the natural tooth. The dental root has often been described as nature’s implant, so wherever possible existing teeth should be kept in place. However there are situations when it is neither feasible nor cost-effective to keep the tooth. The options have to be considered carefully either by your general dental practitioner, or by an endodontics specialist. How successful is endodontic treatment?Nobody can guarantee success. However when the endodontic treatment and the restorative treatment that follows it are both carried out to a high standard, long-term success is very likely. Failure would be caused by the leakage of bacteria into the root canal system or by mechanical failure i.e. fracture of the remaining tooth. Should endodontic treatment fail, it may be possible to re-treat the tooth. If further treatment is impossible, the tooth may require extraction. Endodontic re-treatment may be carried by your own dentist or by an endodontist, depending on the particular problems and reasons for the failure. General dentist or root canal specialist?General dentist are trained to carry out root canal treatment and many of them do this to a very high standard. Whether root canal treatment is carried out by your regular dentist or an endodontics specialist will depend on many factors. Is your dentist skilled, experienced and confident in performing these kinds of procedures? Is it a straightforward treatment or are there complications? The molar teeth have a more complicated root canal system than the front teeth (incisors and canines), are harder to access and may require more specialized equipment. While endodontics specialists are usually more expensive, their training and experience enable them to deal more easily with complications. In many cases, this
How to get the most from your partnership
Think of the relationship between you and your dentist as a partnership, your dentist can offer a range of dental treatment options for many oral health problems. These options will vary in complexity, durability and cost but working together, you can choose the treatment options that best suit your needs and budget. A good dentist will explain each treatment option, including it’s benefits and drawbacks. It is important that you tell your dentist about yourself and your needs and you shouldn’t be afraid to ask the dental team questions if necessary in order to help you understand their oral treatment recommendations. The key to all good relationships is trust and understanding as it should be between you and your dentist, you should therefore try to build a relationships based on open and honest communication. A good dental team will be more than happy to explain the oral care program they are proposing for you but if you don’t understand any aspect you may want to ask some or all of the following questions. Can you give me a step by step breakdown as you make your oral examinations? What are the treatment options in respect of my specific needs? Are there any alternative treatments I should consider? Which of these options would give me the best outcome? What needs to be treated now and what can wait to be treated later? What can I do in future to avoid similar problems reoccurring? Concerns Confidence and trust are key factors when visiting your dental team, a dental expert said, “Dentists are trained to understand their patients worries and cam empathize with them. Your dentist should be an expert, not just in technical dentistry but in communication, empathy, understanding and be able to deliver care in a professional manner”. He also stated “that cost was actually quite low on their list of concerns, a hygienic, friendly environment is more important for most people”. Many people have a level of anxiety when visiting their dentist, probably based on a bad experience from their childhood when dental techniques were not as good as they are today. Things are somewhat different today as modern dental care and new techniques and advances mean that the discomfort you may remember from your childhood is considerably less today. Advice Don’t wait for your dentist to sort out your problems, our expert stated “Avoid problems by sticking to a good mouth care routine in the first place, healthy teeth are within everyone’s reach”. Remember you and your dentist are a team and good oral health is your goal. About the Author Tony Forster has a keen interest in dental care and bad breath treatment and has compiled many useful resources at: www.eliminate-bad-breath.info The content of this article is for information purposes only, it is advisable to consult your medical or dental practitioner before implementing any program or change to your current regime.
How to relax in the dentists chair
Be cool in the chair!!! If you’re anything like me you’ll feel varying degrees of anxiety when you find yourself sitting in the dentists chair, perhaps you can remember a specific incident from your childhood that brings back painful memories or maybe you don’t like the sounds and smells involved. Being afraid of the dentist is nothing to be ashamed of and is something most of us experience at sometime in our lives. The good news however is that modern dentistry is is now a different experience, modern dentists have a greater understanding of their patients fears and concerns and have undergone additional training to meet these concerns. Dental practices have also greatly improved with less painful treatments, more efficient practices and quicker dental treatments along with your dentists empathy make for a much nicer experience. Lie back and think of something nice… 5 things you can do to make the experience more enjoyable… 1. Arrive relaxed, calm and on time – Plan your visit with care, be sure to allow plenty of time to arrive and park your car if driving. If you are running late or have difficulty getting there on time you will naturally be more stressed. A high level of stress can make you irritable and that makes it more difficult to control your level of anxiety. 2. Try exercising your brain – Don’t just sit in the dentists chair thinking about nothing or worse still imagining what might happen but use the time effectively by thinking about something that will tax your brain. Why not have brain puzzle already prepared or perhaps you’d prefer to think about planning your next holiday or a home improvement. Whatever you do make sure you have something to occupy your mind other than what is going on… 3. You are in control – It is important that you let your dentists know how you will signal that you want them to stop now because you need a break before the dental treatment can start again. The mere fact that you can now control the situation often helps reduce anxiety and makes the treatment more bearable. 4. Music can help – A personal stereo that allows you to play your own choice of music or a talking book can help distract your mind and hide the sound of treatment. 5. Hypnosis and relaxation – Perhaps your dentists offer these techniques which are a little like day dreaming, these techniques allow you to gain control over your feelings of distress, panic or fear, if your dentist doesn’t offer these services they will most likely be able to suggest somebody suitable. Most importantly speak to your dentist and explain any fears and concerns you may have about your treatment, a good dentist will be able to empathize with your feelings and by carefully explaining what they are about to do and how, it will go a long way to resolving your issues without the need for any other technique, you may even find yourself looking forward to next visit??? About the author Tony Forster has a keen interest in dental care and bad breath treatment and has compiled many useful resources at www.eliminate-bad-breath.info The content of this article is for information purposes only, it is advisable to consult your medical or dental practitioner before implementing any program or change to your current regime.
