Do you suffer from dental anxiety? Have you heard of gentle dentistry but don’t know all the facts? Gentle dentistry is a great way to see the dentist, minus the fear.
Did you know that periodontal disease and tooth decay are the biggest threats to your overall dental health?
According to the CDC, over 47 percent of adults over 30 years have some form of periodontal disease.
Have you heard of gentle dentistry but aren’t sure exactly what it means or if it is right for you? No need to worry! Keep reading this guide to learn more about dental health and gentle dentistry!
Dental Health
Good dental and oral health are necessary for your overall health! However, if you have poor dental hygiene, it can lead to cavities and gum disease. In addition, cavities and gum disease have a link to cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
Make a lifelong commitment to your teeth! Don’t slack on brushing and flossing. And limit your sugar intake. You will thank yourself later when you don’t have to take out a small loan to fix your teeth.
Take some steps to keep your teeth as healthy as possible. Try making these habits a part of your routine:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss your teeth once a day at least
- Don’t eat as much sugar
- Try eating more fruits and vegetables
- Avoid oral tobacco
- Drink water with fluoride in it
- Go to the dentist regularly
Symptoms You Have Dental Problems
Don’t wait until you have pain or symptoms to see a dentist. Prevention prevents dental problems, and if you go at least twice a year, you will be able to catch problems before they become more significant problems.
So keep an eye on your mouth and watch for any symptoms. Then, see your dentist right away if you notice:
- Sores in your mouth that don’t heal
- Bleeding or swollen gums after you brush
- Constant bad breath
- Teeth suddenly feeling sensitive
- Tooth pain
- Loose teeth and swelling of your face
- Receding gums
- Pain with eating
- Cracked death
- Dry mouth
If you have any of these symptoms with a high fever or severe facial swelling, make sure to seek emergency treatment!
Gentle Dentistry
A gentle dentist is a dentist who will work with you to improve your dental health while at the same time calming your anxieties.
A gentle dentist will approach dentistry with skill, new technologies, and techniques to eliminate your pain and discomfort.
Dentists who practice gentle dentistry tend to build a closer relationship with you, as they spend a lot more time with you to understand and manage your anxieties.
Dental Phobia
If you are afraid of the dentist, you’re in good company. More than 36 percent of people suffer from dental anxiety, and 12 percent of them have fear so extreme they avoid the dentist at all costs.
This anxiety is called dental phobia, and people who have it experience extreme fear the day before a dental appointment. In addition, feelings of physical illness, trouble breathing, and severe anxiety are common.
Often this fear can be from childhood dental experiences. Maybe you had many dental procedures done as a child, and you felt pain and discomfort. These are genuine fears.
So never feel stupid about them or feel you are alone. Unfortunately, people often have negative experiences with a dentist, and this shapes how they view visiting dentists for the rest of their lives.
Gentle Dentistry is Painless Dentistry
Needles, pain, and strange-looking pointy instruments keep people far away from the dental office. Who wants to sit in an uncomfortable chair and feel pain?
Gentle dentists will discuss your preferences for sedation during your procedure. Some people may not want to be awake, while others might prefer mild sedation to take the edge off. Be aware that sedation options might vary, depending on the dental practice you visit.
Types of sedation can include:
Nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas,” is delivered through a mask placed on your nose. This gas helps you relax and sometimes laugh. The good thing about nitrous oxide is it wears off quickly!
Oral sedation is a pill you take that relaxes you—usually, this is Valium you take about an hour before your procedure. You will feel drowsy but will still be awake.
IV moderate sedation is when you get a sedating medication through your vein. This sedation works fast, and you will most likely sleep.
General anesthesia puts you to sleep, just like you would be for an operation.
Other Comforts of Gentle Dentistry
Many gentle dentists offer additional comforts to put you in a relaxed mood—like massage chairs, neck pillows, refreshments, lip balm, blankets, and scented facecloths. Of course, you will also have your choice of music, TV, or a movie to keep you occupied.
Gentle Dentistry is Safe
There is always a risk with any anesthesia, but gentle dentistry is safe and effective. As with any procedure, your dentist will review your medical history and ask what medications you’re taking.
Your dentist will talk to you about what type of sedation is best for you based on your age and health. They will also discuss the risks and possible side effects with you.
Gentle Dentistry For All
Gentle dentistry is a fantastic option for your dental care. Your anxieties are real, but you can manage them! Find a dentist that will take the time to help you.
Katy Gentle Dentists cares about you! And not just your teeth. We care for you as a complete package. We are professional and experienced at giving you the care that you deserve.
Your dental health is a huge deal! Take control of it now. Make sure you contact us today.