La Plata Dental Blog

Does the thought of your dentist wheeling over a cart of metal tools that are seconds away from being in your mouth scare you? The thick, sterile-smelling air of dental practices can cause waves of anxiety for some people, especially ones who have had bad experiences in the past. If you’ve been putting off getting dental treatments that you’ve needed for the sake of your mental health, it could cause those issues to become more severe. Luckily, sedation dentistry offers multiple techniques that allow patients with phobias and anxiety to comfortably sit through their treatment without having to worry about a thing. Read on to learn about whether oral conscious sedation or nitrous oxide can help you.

Dental emergencies happen at the most inconvenient times. They can be so unexpected that it’s often difficult to think clearly and act in a timely manner to prevent further damage from occurring. The best way to overcome the shock and stress caused by a dental emergency is to be prepared, that includes having your local emergency dentist’s number taped on your refrigerator just in case. If you can’t get to them right away, be sure to follow these at-home tips to ease your pain.

The Centers For Disease Control estimate that nearly 65 million Americans have some form of gum disease (also called periodontal disease). Most people know how important it is to have healthy teeth but don’t spend much time thinking about their gums. This common condition causes inflammation of the gums and underlying bone that surround the teeth and can have serious consequences, including tooth loss. The first step to overcoming gum disease is having the right information about it, so keep reading to learn the truth about 5 common myths you may have heard. 

Does the thought of dentists poking around in your mouth make you break out in a cold sweat? Have you ever avoided a dental procedure you know you need because it makes you anxious? If so, you’re not alone. It’s estimated that as many as 20 percent of adults in the U.S. have avoided going to the dentist out of fear. That’s why they use laughing gas, or a form of sedation dentistry designed to soothe your dental worries. How does it work? Are you a good candidate for laughing gas? Read more below to find out.

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Have you ever spat after brushing or flossing to find a splash of blood in the sink? Do your teeth look longer than they used to? Are your gums red and sensitive? If so, you may need gum disease therapy. Gum disease is a serious condition that has been linked to other health issues like heart disease, diabetes, and even dementia. Continue reading below to learn more about how to spot the early stages of gum disease.

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