Do you put off scheduling your routine checkups and cleanings with your dentist because you dread them? Whether you experience dental phobia that keeps you on-edge during your visit or your dental cleanings feel uncomfortable and painful, there are a number of practices and resources you can use to make your next cleaning more comfortable. Read on to learn four of them!
Ask About Dental Sedation
If the dental office makes you uncomfortable by sparking fear or anxiety in you, then you may be an excellent candidate for oral conscious sedation. Your dentist will prescribe you a sedative that’s in the diazepam family, like Halcion or Valium. You can pick up the prescription at your local pharmacy, and you’ll take it about an hour before your cleaning. The effects will help you feel relaxed during your cleaning, but because they will kick-in before you arrive and linger for up to eight hours, you’ll need to have a friend or family member drop you off and pick you up from the office.
Try Toothpaste Made for Sensitive Teeth
If dental sensitivity is a primary concern whenever you have your teeth professionally cleaned, you may try a long-term solution like using a remineralizing toothpaste specially designed for sensitive teeth. When the outer layer of protective enamel on teeth begins to deteriorate due to dental damage or excessive acidic waste within the mouth, it can lead to more sensitive teeth. By remineralizing the enamel of your teeth, the goal is to reduce sensitivity and make your routine cleanings more comfortable.
Maintain Good At-Home Oral Hygiene
How long your dental cleanings take and whether any additional procedures are needed during your routine checkups is largely dependent on how well you maintain your smile at home. For example, if you’re not diligent about flossing and brushing every day, you will likely have more plaque and tartar accumulated on the surface of your teeth. This will be harder for your dental hygienist to remove, ultimately prolonging your cleaning. However, if you continue to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once a day, you can make your routine cleanings less involved.
Let Your Dental Hygienist Know Your Experience
A good dental hygienist will be empathetic to your experiences at the dental office, whether you experience fear or anxiety, have a sensitive gag reflex, or very sensitive teeth. When you let them know why you don’t typically like dental cleanings, they can help tailor your care to be more personalized and comfortable.
About the Practice
At DuPont Family Dentistry, our team consists of Drs. John Ludu and Rhenu Sharma, who have decades of cumulative expertise. They enjoy creating positive and comfortable experiences for all of their patients, whether they’re coming in for dental implants or a routine checkup and cleaning. That’s why they take the time to get to know their patients’ preferences and maintain a gentle, comfortable touch. To schedule your next checkup and cleaning, visit DuPont Family Dentistry’s website or call 253-964-7000.