The importance of regular cleanings

Professional dental cleaning and brushing your teeth are not exactly the same things. Although brushing your teeth twice a day (one of them is before bedtime) will clean most plague that contributes to tooth decay and gum disease, overall dental care requires more than just brushing. Regular dental visits are necessary as it gives the dentist the chance to monitor everything inside the mouth including gum, tongue, palate, the inside of your cheeks, and of course your teeth.  Regular dental cleanings help the dentist recognize early signs of disease and treat them accordingly before they get worse.

The general consensus is that you need to visit a dentist regularly at least once every 3 to 6 months. Your dentist, in accordance to the suggestion from American Dental Association (ADA), may determine different intervals depending on your dental health condition. Based on a current examination of your oral health condition, the dentist will suggest a personalized visit interval to treat your condition accordingly.

Regular dental cleaning has two main purposes: it treats early signs of dental problems and prevents potential risks of diseases. During a regular visit to the dentist you will receive the following treatments:

1.      Pre-Examination

Before the actual oral examination and dental cleaning begin, a dentist will check for anything out of the ordinary in head and neck area including face, lower jaw joints, and lymph nodes. Many indications of oral diseases may appear in the aforementioned areas. In case a problem exists, pre-examination helps a dentist to determine proper treatment before performing further procedures.

2.      Dental Examination

During a dental exam, the dentist or hygienist will:

• Evaluate your overall health and oral hygiene
• Evaluate your risk of tooth decay, root decay, and gum or bone disease
• Evaluate your need for tooth restoration or tooth replacement
• Check your bite and jaw for problems
• Remove any stains or deposits on your teeth
• Demonstrate proper cleaning techniques for your teeth or dentures
• Assess your need for fluoride
• Take dental X-rays or, if necessary, do other diagnostic procedures

The dentist or hygienist will also ask about any health problems you have or medications you're taking and discuss how they might affect your oral health. If you have diabetes, for example, you're at increased risk of gum disease. If arthritis interferes with your ability to effectively brush your teeth, your dentist or hygienist might show you how to insert the handle of your toothbrush into a rubber ball for easier use — or recommend a powered or electric toothbrush.

3.      Dental Cleaning

Once the examinations have been performed, the actual cleaning can start. The hygienist will help remove plague and tartar, floss between your teeth, polish the teeth, and clean the gums too. At the end of the routines, the dentist will review any dental appliances you have/use and make recommendations concerning your dental hygiene. All in all, regular dental cleanings are not merely about cleaning the teeth from plague and tartar but also oral disease prevention and treatments.

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Before Treatment

Flossing Myths

The struggle is real when it comes to flossing. Many people are reluctant to floss, for one reason or another but unfortunately, for the flossing haters, flossing is extremely important.

Flossing is Vital

Although it can be tempting to believe that flossing does absolutely nothing for our teeth, this isn’t the case. Brushing your teeth is simply not going to cut it! A study was conducted to see the relationship between flossing and transient bacteria. The results showed that the patients who flossed daily developed no bacteria but that patients who delayed flossing from 1 to 4 days developed bacteria 86% of the time.

In terms of preventing periodontal disease, flossing is actually more important than brushing. Unfortunately, dentists in Sanford routinely hear a variety of excuses from their patients looking to justify their poor flossing habits. The following is a breakdown of common myths dental patients cite to excuse not flossing every day.

Busting Flossing Myths with Dental Facts

 1. If My Gums Bleed I Should Stop Flossing

This is a big myth that can keep many people from flossing every day. They think that they are hurting themselves by flossing, causing their gums to bleed. In fact, it’s the opposite. Your gums bleed because the bacteria growing between your teeth have inflamed your gums. If you floss daily and visit a dentist for cleanings, your gums will bleed less and less until the bacteria are cleared and they stop bleeding altogether.

2. Flossing Will Loosen Fillings

Flossing is necessary with any kind of dental work, including fillings, crowns, veneers, bridges, and more. Dental work becomes necessary when one doesn’t floss enough. Any kind of dental work needs extra care. Flossing every day is absolutely necessary.

3. I Cannot Floss With Braces

Though it may be harder to floss with braces, it is necessary. With braces, gums are more likely to become inflamed and infected.

4. I Cannot Floss Because My Teeth are Too Close Together

At Oakport Dental, we can attest that we have never had a patient that has had teeth too close together to floss. Of course some teeth are closer than others and it can be difficult to floss. There is specific thinner floss that one can purchase to solve this issue, but from our experience, this is an excuse more than an actual problem. Your dentist in Sanford can help advise you on different types of floss to use on teeth that are very close together. Usually, waxed floss or floss made of slippery polytetrafluoroethylene can help you reach in between these tight spaces.

5. Flossing Takes Too Much Time

Though some people may have busier mornings than others, there is always time to floss. You can floss in the morning, afternoon, or night—any time of the day. Proper flossing should take no more than two to three minutes. If someone doesn’t have two to three minutes to spare in their day, they may have bigger problems to deal with, though we doubt anyone is that busy!

6. A Waterpik Does the Same Job

Many think that a waterpik can take the place of flossing. Though a waterpik is a very useful tool, it cannot do as good of a job as floss. A waterpik should be used in conjunction with flossing, not as a replacement.

7. I Use Mouthwash Instead of Floss

Just like a waterpik, while mouthwash definitely helps, it is adjunct to floss. Mouthwash is better for loosening plaque, killing bacteria, and freshening breath, but it cannot take the place of floss.

8. There’s No Food in My Teeth, So I Don’t Need to Floss

First, food can be hard to detect in the far reaches of your teeth. Unless you have advanced mirror and lighting technologies to see far into the back reaches of your teeth, it is impossible to say if there’s food between your teeth. The purpose of flossing isn’t just to remove food debris from in between your teeth. It is actually the most effective way to remove dental plaque that accumulates between teeth. If the plaque remains, it can trigger gum inflammation, periodontal disease, and tooth decay. Eventually, failing to floss can even lead to tooth loss.

9. Flossing Is Not Fun

Though you may not find it fun at first, flossing will become a rewarding and pleasurable experience the more you do it. You will become more used to the process, and it will feel good to make the space between your teeth clean and smooth.

10. Flossing takes coordination

If you have difficulty with the mechanics of flossing, there are many tooth-cleaning options to help. Floss holders are Y-shaped devices that can hold a piece of floss between the two prongs. This allows you to floss your teeth using only one hand. Using a floss holder can also help you ensure you floss the backs of your last molars, which are more difficult to reach.

11. Flossing hurts

If flossing is painful or leads to bleeding, then you likely have gingivitis, which is an early stage of gum disease. Even though it may initially be uncomfortable to floss, continuing to floss each day can help prevent advanced stages of gum disease. If you are still bleeding within a week or two, then you should consult your dentist.

Take care of your teeth and your lovely smile by continuing to floss. If you have any questions about flossing or want to book a check-up to see how well you’ve been incorporating flossing into your routine, contact Oakport Dental today!

At Oakport Dental, we are dedicated to our patients having the best and most comfortable dental experience. Knowing that you have a choice in Sanford dental care providers, we do our best to treat everyone who walks through our doors like a member of our own family.

We are available for you Monday to Friday between 8am and 4pm, and you can call us on 407-323-5340, fax us at 407- 322-9136, or email us at sanford@oakportdental.com.

Get Over Your Fear of the Dentist - Tips to Improve Your Next Visit

In this post we give some tips on what you can do during a treatment to better cope with dental anxiety.  Commit to overcoming your fear of dentists. It’s time to take action. You can’t achieve anything until you have a plan, and we have a lot of ideas to help you.

Distract Yourself

Modern dentists are well aware of the power of distraction to ease their patients’ feelings of fear during appointments. Use whatever means necessary to keep your mind off of what’s being done in your mouth, such as:

• Count to one thousand by threes.
• Replay a movie in your head.
• Try to remember the speech you memorized for your ninth grade Model United Nations competition.
• Silently recite the alphabet backwards.

Bring a Family Member or Friend With You

Most adults go to dentist appointments alone. However, bringing along a friend or family member who understands your fears can be reassuring. They can help you stay calm during your appointment. Let us know ahead of time and we will make accommodations

Use Noise-Canceling Headphones

Many people’s dental anxiety ratchets up a few notches as soon as they hear the drill. By using noise-canceling headphones, you can block out the machinery sounds in the office, helping you to relax while the dentist does their work. Music can help relax you and allow you to zone out while your teeth are being cleaned. Use your phone or iPod to listen to your favorite tunes while the dentist works.

Ask About Modifications

Not every dental procedure must be the same for each person. Say you have a sensitive gag reflex that makes you dread getting X-rays. Talk to your dentist about your concerns. Perhaps you can get panoramic X-rays instead, which are less likely to make you gag.

Stay Halfway up in the Chair

If you worry about the discomfort or vulnerability of going all the way back in the dentist’s chair, this problem can be addressed in two main ways. First, you could try using pillows under the areas where you feel aches when going back in the chair. Second, the dentist may make an accommodation for you by putting the chair only halfway back during the checkup.

Meditate

Meditation calms your nerves by slowing your heart rate and forcing you to get into a rhythmic breathing. Try practicing at home for a few weeks before your appointment, so you know how to Zen out when needed.

Use a Nasal Strip

If you breathe through your mouth, you may have difficulty breathing during a dental appointment because you are not used to taking in air through your nose. By using a nasal strip across your nose, you open up the passages and get more air in.

Agree on a Signal

Before the drill comes out or the cleaning begins, talk to your dentist or hygienist about a nonverbal signal you can give if you become panicked or uncomfortable. When they see this signal, they can stop and give you a few moments to recover before continuing.

Consider Changing Dentists

If you don’t feel comfortable with your dentist, they may not be the right fit for you. It’s okay to look somewhere else to find a place where you do feel at home.

Talk About Your Pain Management Options

If you’re trying to overcome a fear of dentists, you may simply be scared of feeling pain during your visit. Chat with your dentist and hygienist about your fears so they understand where your anxiety is coming from. For example, we could use a topical anesthetic to numb the area where an injection will be made. By opening a dialogue with your dentist about alternatives to avoid pain, you will feel more at ease with whatever solution you find.

Sedation Dentistry Options

For patients who simply cannot overcome their feelings of anxiety and fear when they arrive at the dentist’s office, more and more dentists in Sanford are offering sedation dentistry options, and it is fairly common elsewhere. We can offer you a range of sedation options, depending on your needs. Be sure to ask about sedation options for your dental procedure. Progressive dental practices ensure patients are comfortable and will share that sedation options are there for a range of dental procedures, not just for “surgery”.

You CAN Get Over Your Fear of the Dentist

By using these tips and planning ahead for your visit, you can alleviate many of the dentist-related fears that may have been holding you back from getting regular dental care. Still, adults aren’t the only ones who are afraid of dental visits.

You can also find information and support online at Dental Fear Center, a website dedicated to helping people overcome their fear and anxiety about visiting the dentist. There’s no need to fear going to the dentist. You can get through your anxiety, go to the dentist with confidence, and feel great about your smile again.

Contact Us- We’d Love to Help You

At Oakport Dental, we are dedicated to our patients having the best and most comfortable dental experience. Knowing that you have a choice in Sanford dental care providers, we do our best to treat everyone who walks through our doors like a member of our own family.

Whether it is with determination, sedation options or professional help if needed, you can overcome your fear of the dentist. Use these ideas as a starting point to getting past your worries, and always feel free to contact us at Oakport Dental if you’d like to talk discuss your needs. We are available for you Monday to Friday between 8am and 4pm, and you can call us on 407-323-5340, fax us at (407) 322-9136, or email us at sanford@oakportdental.com.

Get Over Your Fear of the Dentist - Help Kids Overcome Dental Phobias

How to Help Your Child Overcome Their Dental Phobia 

We've looked at what may cause anxiety about dental visits and some ways to deal with them.  Now here are some tips on how to help your kids from developing the problem in the first place.

Don’t Pass on Your Fears to Your Kids

Kids whose parents are afraid of the dentist are much more likely to be scared of visiting the dentist than kids of parents who are not afraid of the dentist. While dental phobia isn’t easy to deal with, try not to expose your kids to your fears. Let them make up their own minds about the dentist.

Play Dentist at Home

Get your child ready for a dentist visit by trying a game of make-believe: Have your child play the patient while you play the dentist. Pretend to clean their teeth and check for cavities, and answer any questions they might have about the process.

Talk About Their Fears

Show your child that their fear of the dentist is nothing to be ashamed of. Discuss their concerns, and try to alleviate them if you can. Most importantly, listen. Kids appreciate being treated respectfully and being allowed to talk. Resist the urge to tell them their fears are silly or that they shouldn’t worry. Be a good listener, and you’ll be amazed at how the issue begins to resolve itself.

Begin Visiting the Dentist While They’re Young

Fear of the dentist can be a learned behavior. If your child is old enough to talk to other kids at school about the dentist, they may notice others are scared and become fearful themselves. Don’t allow that to happen. Start bringing your child to the dentist as soon as they get their baby teeth — they’ll become comfortable with cleaning and familiar with your dentist.

As dentists in Sanford for over 40 years, we've treated generations of families and can help put you and your child at ease.  Call us today to discuss.  407-323-5340

Get Over Your Fear of Dentist - Tips to Prepare Yourself for a Dental Visit

Prepare yourself before treatment

It’s time to tackle the problem. Start with these steps before your dental treatment:

Acknowledge the issue.

You may have been avoiding your dentist for years, or you may have only recently begun to feel uncomfortable. No matter how long you have suffered from dental phobia, you need to admit to yourself that you are afraid of visiting the dentist.

Figure out why.

It could be one of the reasons listed above, or it could be something more or less complex. You can’t confront your fear until you figure out what’s causing it.

Ask yourself if You Need Help?

If you feel nervous and anxious about going to the dentist, you can probably overcome that on your own, with the tips below. But if your phobia is being caused by a deeper issue, such as PTSD, then you may need professional assistance.

Choose the Right Dentist

Do not just choose the first dentist in Sanford that you see. Before committing to an appointment, ensure that the dentist’s temperament and personality is a good fit for you. Obviously you want someone experienced and knowledgeable first and foremost. But all the expertise in the world is no good to you if you don’t like the person who is providing treatment. If you need lots of reassurance during appointments, choose someone with the patience to provide that to you. If you need someone who is great at explaining complicated procedures in layman’s terms that anyone can understand, then make sure your dentist can do that.

Meet Your Dentist Before Getting Treated

Whether you’re visiting a new dentist in Sanford for the first time, or you’re making your first appointment in a while with your old dentist, call ahead and see if you can schedule a consultation appointment. When you go in for this visit, your dentist will not perform any procedures. The two of you will discuss your fears and the work that you need done. At this time, your dentist should explain the procedures associated with getting your teeth and gums back in good health. They should also discuss any anxiety-reducing options that they offer. For example, many dentists now provide pillows and blankets, and music and/or television in their exam rooms, as well as sedation dentistry options to help you feel relaxed and calm throughout your visit. During your consultation your dentist may perform a brief oral exam, if you are comfortable enough to have this done. If not, this can be saved for your next visit. Even if you are not able to have an oral exam performed, this visit should give you the tools necessary to go to your next appointment.

Ask Questions

Before you go to your next dental visit, find out everything you need to know about what procedures need to be done, how long it will take, and anything else that crosses your mind. Often, the fear of the unknown is far worse than the reality of what will occur – so put this fear to rest by arming yourself with a complete set of knowledge about what to expect at your visit. And the questions don’t have to end there. Once you arrive for your appointment, don’t hesitate to ask questions during the exam and any procedures you’ll be undergoing.

Be Upfront About Your Dental Phobia

Here at OakportDental we know that people can be scared of coming to us, and we want to help. We won’t judge you or dismiss your fears. We will work with you to help you feel more relaxed. This may include: Talking to you during a cleaning, letting you see the dental instruments before they are used -you may even want to touch or hold them to help them feel familiar- and explaining everything that will happen during your appointment before starting. When the hygienist or dentist knows your fears, they can be sure to take those fears into consideration during the appointment.

Call us today to discuss how we can help.  407-323-5340