Top Tips for Overcoming Dental Anxiety

Posted by Distinctive Dentistry on Maitland Mar 03,2023

Dental phobia or fear of the dentist is a common condition that affects many people, and it causes them to avoid going to the dentist. Dental anxiety can cause people to delay going to the dentist, which can lead to dental issues.

Discuss your dental fears

It is important to discuss your fears before undergoing any dental treatment. Your dentist can discuss your fears and reassure you about them. When speaking to the dentist about your discomfort, be specific about what makes you feel anxious. That way, you can get tips and advice on how to overcome those fears. For instance, if the sound of a drill bothers you, the dentist can let you know that it will only be used for a short period of time and then switched out with a soft tool.

Agree on a signal

It’s common for patients to feel uncomfortable at the dentist’s office due to a number of factors. Some of them include the sound of the drill, the proximity of their cheek to the suction tube, or the smell of chemicals used to clean the teeth. If you feel nervous, tell your dentist about it and agree on a signal beforehand. This way, you can inform your dental hygienist that you need a break. The signal should be something simple so that your dentist doesn’t confuse it with something else. For example, you can simply raise your hand to indicate you need a short break. You can also nod your head or raise your eyebrows to indicate that you’re uncomfortable and need to take a break.

Take a friend or family member with you

It’s perfectly normal to feel nervous before a dentist appointment, but bringing a friend or family member along can help prevent you from feeling alone and awkward in the dentist’s chair. Your friend or family member can distract you during your appointment, helping to ease your tension. They can also help you remember the things you are supposed to talk about with your dental assistant or dentist. They can even tell you if you need to speak up!

Have a distraction with you

If you’re feeling anxious during your appointment, bring your phone or some headphones to listen to some music. You may also bring your book or magazine to read in case your dentist is running behind. This will give you some time to relax and ease your anxiety. If your child becomes frightened at the prospect of sitting in the dentist’s chair, having his favorite toy with him can help him cope with his anxiety.

Ask for sedation dentistry

There are two different types of dental sedation you can use to relax during a dental procedure. The first is nitrous oxide, which is also called laughing gas. It is inhaled through a mask that is placed over your nose. Nitrous oxide allows you to feel relaxed but conscious during your dental treatment. The second type of sedation is oral sedatives, which allow you to be in a more relaxed stage.

To find out more about the dental services we offer at Distinctive Dental on Maitland, call (407) 830-9800 or schedule your consultation online. You can also visit us at 609 Maitland Ave STE 1, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701.

HOW DO I DEAL WITH WINTER MOUTH ISSUES?

Winter is a time when people try to have as much fun as possible. From holiday parties to snowy hikes, this time of year brings many opportunities for fun and adventure. However, there are also many threats to your oral health. ORAL HEALTH ISSUES DURING WINTER AND THEIR SOLUTIONS Is the weather cold, windy, or dry where you live? If so, you’re probably familiar with some of the common effects of winter on your oral health – such as sensitive teeth, chapped lips, and bad breath. Your dentist has seen it all before! Here are some pointers from your dentist to combat these issues. * Stay hydrated. Sure, it’s important to stay hydrated no matter the season, but in the winter, it’s especially important. That’s because the cold air dries out your mouth. What’s more, if you use supplemental heating in your home during the colder months, this causes the air to be even drier. That’s why you’ll want plenty of water on hand to sip throughout the day. * Protect your lips. Lips become extra susceptible to chapping during the winter months, so you’ll want to invest in a good lip balm. Look for one that contains sunscreen as well, as this will help prevent the sun from burning your lips once springtime arrives. * Keep up with your oral hygiene routine. Brush at least twice a day for two minutes each time, and floss at least once per day. This will keep your teeth clean and your gums pink and healthy. Stay on top of your daily habits, so your smile will stay healthy over the next month. * Schedule routine cleanings and exams. Just because the season changes doesn’t mean you should stop coming in to see us twice a year for regular cleaning and exam. In fact, you’ll be even more prone to developing oral health problems during the cooler months, so you’ll want to come in more frequently than you normally would. These appointments help us catch any problems before they have a chance to worsen and cause more pain for you. * Use a mouthwash: Your dentist may recommend using an antibacterial mouthwash this winter to help kill germs and bacteria that cause bad breath, plaque buildup, and other common winter mouth issues. Look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance before making a purchase. If you’re due for a checkup, don’t wait to schedule your next appointment. Call your dental office today to arrange an appointment at a time that’s convenient for your schedule.

GINGIVITIS AND ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE: IS THERE A CONNECTION?

After reviewing 20 years of data in an aging study comparing individuals at age 50 and again at age 70 researchers concluded that cognitive function using the “digit symbol test” was in the lower range for 70 year olds with gum disease. During these studies other factors such as smoking and obesity were also taken into account. Even so there was still a strong association of lower scores for those with gum inflammation. This study spurred several other studies. In the UK, researchers were able to get live brain samples from 10 Alzheimer’s patients and 10 from non-cognitive impaired patients. Analysis showed that all 10 Alzheimer samples had P. Gingivalis bacteria present. P. Gingivalis is usually associated with chronic gum disease. The non- impaired samples did not have any of this bacteria present. This then led to another study with the time in 2014 using mice. Once gum disease became established in the test samples, the P. Gingivalis found its way to the brain in these mice. There is sufficient evidence that shows that some bacteria that cause gum disease are capable of motion. This means that they can hitch a ride on the red blood cells when the gums bleed while eating and/or cleaning your teeth. They have even been found to travel up the nerve endings from the tooth to the brain. Once in the brain, it is hypothesized using data from the brain chemicals released that the P. Gingivalis bacteria inadvertently damages the neurons that deal with memory. The good news, gum disease is preventable! Thorough brushing and flossing and regular dental cleanings will do far more than give you that pretty smile. Distinctive Dentistry on Maitland in Altamonte Springs specializes in general and cosmetic dentistry. If you want to learn more about gum disease and various treatments for it, please give us a call or contact us online today!

WELCOME TO Distinctive Dentistry on Maitland

Welcome to Distinctive Dentistry on Maitland’s first blog! For over 40 years, we have committed ourselves to providing the best dental care for all our patients with integrity, compassion and a patient first attitude. Dr. Timothy Lane, Dr. Charles Curley, and Dr. Brett Zak have extensive experience in the field of general and cosmetic dentistry including implant crowns, veneers, and teeth whitening. Our doctors and hygiene team make it their priority to educate all our patients, young and old, on the importance of maintaining exceptional oral health through routine dental check-ups, home care education, and the meaning of healthy teeth for the rest of your life. As you browse our website, you will find extensive information regarding Drs. Lane, Curley, & Zak, their education, training and areas of expertise. We routinely utilize Intra-Oral Cameras and digital photography to highlight any dental concerns and recommendations. This will help you fully understand the course of your treatment. Our team of seven hygienists have been part of our office for over 25 years, allowing you the security of knowing each visit will be a pleasant experience. Each hygiene visit will consist of a thorough cleaning along with x-rays and exams when needed. You can learn more about your hygienists by visiting our website at www.dentistryonmaitland.com. We invite you to call or email our office with questions you may have regarding your dental care. A team member will gladly answer your questions and help you get started with the first step to ensuring your smile stays healthy for life!

THE MAIN CULPRITS FOR TOOTH WEAR

The mouth certainly is a complex environment. From the unusual forces we place upon it to the acid regulation that takes place, the teeth sure do take a beating! Below are some common causes of tooth structure being destroyed without decay being a factor. * Grinding wear – While we can certainly grind our teeth in the daytime most of the damage is done while we are sleeping. Forces while sleeping can be greatly magnified above our daytime ability. Ever notice the flattening in teeth? This is the result of grinding. This wear usually starts with the canines (eye teeth). Once enough tooth structure is worn away the wear progresses on to the neighboring teeth. Coupled with clenching this will not only wear the teeth, it also is a main cause of teeth fracturing, requiring crowns. * Abrasion – Caused by heavy tooth brushing with a back and forth motion or too firm of a toothbrush. Many times this starts where you brush first with a heavier hand and fresh toothpaste. Common first offended site is the upper left side. * Abfraction – Caused from very heavy chronic forces microscopic flecks of enamel and root structure are forced from the tooth surface. * Erosion – There are many causes of acid erosion such as high frequency soda drinking, bulimia and acid reflux (GERD or silent GERD). Highly acidic oral environments will cause any/all of the wear conditions mentioned above to happen at an accelerated pace. Erosion can also increase your chances of having sensitive teeth. All of these wear patterns are controllable and repairable, but best of all; future wear is preventable with intervention-the earlier the better! Your teeth can be protected from excessive forces simply by wearing a night guard. To battle the erosion it may be a diet change or treating acid reflux which will make your esophagus much happier too. Distinctive Dentistry on Maitland in Altamonte Springs specializes in general and cosmetic dentistry. If you want to learn more about gum disease and various treatments for it, please give us a call or contact us online today!

WHY DO I KEEP GETTING CAVITIES

In a nut shell, cavities are a bacterial disease elevated by sugar intake. There are hundreds of bacteria that can form in our mouths. These bacteria join together in groups we then call “plaque”. Interestingly there are less than 10 bacteria varieties that are responsible for causing cavities. With so few bad bacterial types its amazing how much disease can take place! These bad bacteria for many can proliferate at higher rates than the good bacteria that work to maintain a healthy balance in the mouth. Just having bad bacteria in your mouth does not cause a cavity. In order for a cavity to form you need two components: bad bacteria and sugar. Any time a simple carbohydrate, which will break down into sugar, enters your mouth the bacteria feed on the sugars and produce 20-40 minutes of acid production that attacks and demineralizes your enamel. Does this mean that you can never have a treat again? No, although it is best to limit the treat food to mealtime and have a healthier between meals snack. Most important to remember is that each time you have a carbohydrate type snack or beverage with sugar or innocent hard candy, mint or sugar gum your acid clock restarts! For those of you that re frequent “snackers”, “sippers” and /or “candy, mint, gum poppers” your bacteria are at an all-day all you can eat buffet, keeping your acid clock running. So, what should you do to stop the cavities from forming? A great start is excellent cleaning on a daily basis, suchas using a Sonicare toothbrush and flossing or any aid to clean between the teeth. While you may not be able to control the types of bacteria your mouth wants to make, you can certainly control the amount of bacteria that stays on our teeth. The more bacteria present as we consume sugars equates to a higher amount of acids attacking our enamel. Fluoride treatments are recommended for all ages and best to follow up at home with prescription strength toothpaste dispensed by your dentist. Remember to have regular visits to your dentist. It’s always easier to repair a small cavity that a large one! To learn more about cavities or preventative dental care, please contact our Altamonte Springs office today at (407) 830-9800.

Timothy M. Lane

Charles E. Curley

Brett W. Zak

Scott E. McCauley

Any Doctor

Top Tips for Overcoming Dental Anxiety