Q: Why is it necessary to visit your dentist regularly?
A: Through check-ups, you are able to ensure that your teeth, gums and mouth are healthy. It’s important that they stay healthy because if you develop a gum disease it can affect other parts of your body like your heart. During check-ups, your dentist can discover and treat periodontal problems in their early stage. There are some oral disorders that don’t display early symptoms so it’s best to have a professional check on it.
Q: Are there things you can do to feel more relaxed during a dental check-up?
A: Some people are terrified of going to a dentist’s office because of its painful connotation. But don’t worry. There’s been a lot of developments in modern dentistry that could ease pain and discomfort. You can also try these other ways to help you feel more relaxed in preparation for a dental check-up. You can try the following:
- Try talking to the dental staff. According to research, expressing your fear of pain can actually lessen your fear of pain.
- Imagine yourself sitting comfortably in the dentist’s chair.
- Bring your phone or iPod so you could listen to your favorite songs. You can also try recordings or voice messages that have a calming effect on you.
- Talk to your dentist about hand signals. Give them a signal so they’ll know when you want them to stop or if you need a break.
- Ask the clinic what they have available that can help relieve tension, fear or stress.
Q: Can aromatherapy be used to soothe patients during a treatment?
A: According to a study by the Case Western Reserve University, patients who were exposed to relaxing, scented oils were more relaxed. Ask their clinic if they have aromatherapy or calming scented oils available or you could bring your own. You can easily find these oils in supermarkets, health shops and drugstores. Dentists are happy when their patients are happy with them.
Q: If you are prone to bacterial infections, should you drink antibiotics before going to see your dentist?
A: If you need to go to your dentist for treatment that will cause you to bleed and you have a medical condition wherein you’re left vulnerable to infections, then you should drink antibiotics prior to going there. Bacteria could enter your bloodstream through an opening in your mouth or gums.
Make sure that you inform your dentist of any condition you may have. It may or may not be relevant but if so, your dentist can guide you accordingly. They have the knowledge and expertise to determine what’s best for you medically. The American Heart Association and the American Dental Association has given dentists and physicians information to guide patients with regards to antibiotic medication and dental care.
Q: How can you get dental treatment if you don’t have coverage or money for it?
A: Check with the department of health or department of social services office in your area. Or you can also approach government-subsidized programs or public medical facilities. You can also check if there are available public dental insurance plans available and if you’re eligible to apply for them.
