August 2014 / MONTHLY ARCHIVES
Sedation and Relaxation at the Dentist
Let's chat candidly about going to the dentist. Most would not put dental work or even a routine cleaning at the top of their list of favorite things to do. It's an important part of our lives though, so we get a cleaning twice a year. Sometimes we might need a filling. At other times we might need a more 'extended' procedure like a root canal, implant or extraction. For many, going to the dentist is something to be tolerated. For some, it can be down right dreadful. The stress and anxiety about going to the dentist that some patients feel can be debilitating, but it doesn't have to be. Each patient has their own threshold of anxiety. Sometimes a few deep breaths can take care of that. At other times, it requires a more clinical approach. Below are a few of...
Why Do Dentists Take X-Rays?
Have you ever wondered why your dentist has you bite down on those little plastic tabs and wear that lead apron? I mean, we all know it's for x-rays, but why do they need to take them in the first place? Well there's good reason for them and below are the main reasons why. Look for decay between teeth Sometimes decay isn't visible to the naked eye and exists in areas the dentist cannot see. Check for bone loss associated with gum disease Gum disease can cause bone loss and an x-ray will show how advanced it is. Check for decay under fillings Sometimes decay under fillings can occur and can only be seen with an x-ray. Look for infection at the tip of the root Infections can appear at the very bottom of your teeth where the bone is, which needs to be confirmed...
