Understanding Dental Anxiety: Tips to Feel More Comfortable

Lamprey Dental • December 28, 2025

Walking into a dental office shouldn't fill you with dread, yet for millions of people, dental anxiety is a very real and overwhelming experience. Whether it stems from past painful experiences, fear of needles, sensitivity to sounds and smells, or simply the feeling of vulnerability while lying in the dental chair, dental anxiety can prevent you from getting the care you need. This avoidance can lead to serious oral health problems, creating a vicious cycle where deteriorating dental health makes future visits even more stressful. The good news is that understanding your anxiety and learning practical coping strategies can transform your dental experience from something you dread into a routine appointment you can handle with confidence. Here's everything you need to know about managing dental anxiety and making your next visit as comfortable as possible.

1. Understanding the Root Causes of Dental Anxiety

Dental anxiety manifests differently for everyone, but understanding where your specific fears originate is the first step toward managing them effectively. For many people, dental anxiety traces back to a childhood experience when dental visits were unfamiliar, overwhelming, or associated with discomfort. Perhaps you had a procedure that was more painful than expected, or you felt helpless and out of control during treatment. These early experiences can create lasting impressions that trigger anxiety even decades later, making your body respond with stress signals whenever you think about visiting the dentist.

Fear of pain ranks among the most common sources of dental anxiety, even though modern dentistry has made tremendous advances in pain management and minimally invasive techniques. The anticipation of pain can actually be worse than any discomfort you might experience during actual treatment, as your mind imagines worst-case scenarios that rarely materialize in reality. Some patients develop anxiety around specific aspects of dental visits, such as the sound of the drill, the feeling of numbness from local anesthesia, or concerns about gagging during procedures. Others experience more generalized anxiety that encompasses the entire dental environment, including the clinical smells, bright lights, and unfamiliar equipment.

Loss of control represents another significant trigger for dental anxiety. When you're reclined in the dental chair with tools and hands in your mouth, you can't easily communicate, move freely, or see what's happening. This vulnerability can feel overwhelming, especially if you're someone who generally prefers to stay in control of situations. Additionally, some people carry embarrassment or shame about the condition of their teeth, worrying that the dentist will judge them for neglecting their oral health. This fear can be so powerful that it prevents them from seeking care altogether, allowing dental problems to worsen over time.

Past traumatic experiences with healthcare providers, not necessarily dental-related, can also contribute to dental anxiety. If you've had negative experiences with medical professionals who were dismissive, impatient, or failed to adequately manage your pain, you might project those concerns onto dental visits. Understanding the specific origins of your anxiety helps you communicate more effectively with your dental team and develop targeted coping strategies. Have you identified what specific aspects of dental visits trigger the most anxiety for you?

2. Communication: The Foundation of Comfortable Dental Care

Open, honest communication with your dental team is perhaps the most powerful tool you have for managing anxiety and ensuring comfortable treatment. Many patients suffer in silence, assuming that their dentist will somehow intuitively know they're anxious or uncomfortable. However, dental professionals aren't mind readers, and they genuinely want to help you feel at ease. By expressing your concerns before and during your appointment, you enable your dental team to adjust their approach, explain procedures more thoroughly, and take extra steps to ensure your comfort.

Before your appointment, consider calling the office to discuss your anxiety with the receptionist or scheduling coordinator. Many dental practices have specific protocols for anxious patients and can schedule extra time for your visit, allowing the dentist to work more slowly and take breaks as needed. Request to meet briefly with the dentist before your treatment begins so you can discuss your specific concerns, ask questions about the planned procedures, and establish a communication system for during treatment. This preliminary conversation helps build trust and rapport, transforming the dentist from a faceless stranger into someone who understands and cares about your well-being.

Establishing a signal system before treatment begins gives you a sense of control even when you can't speak clearly. Most dentists are happy to agree on a hand signal you can use if you need them to stop immediately, whether for a break, to adjust your position, or because you're experiencing discomfort. Simply knowing you have this "emergency brake" can significantly reduce anxiety because you're not completely powerless during the procedure. Some patients find it helpful to raise their hand gently to indicate they need a pause, while others prefer a specific gesture. Discuss what works best for you and ensure everyone on the dental team knows your signal.

During treatment, don't hesitate to ask for explanations of what's happening, especially if you hear unfamiliar sounds or feel unexpected sensations. Understanding what the dentist is doing and why can demystify the process and reduce fear of the unknown. Request that the dentist tell you what to expect before each step, including how long it will take and what you might feel. Many anxious patients find this running commentary reassuring because it eliminates surprises. Remember that good dentists want you to be comfortable and informed – they'll never be annoyed by your questions or requests for clarification. Building this communicative partnership with your dental team transforms your visit from something done to you into a collaborative experience where your needs and comfort matter.

3. Practical Relaxation Techniques for Before and During Your Visit

Learning and practicing relaxation techniques can significantly reduce dental anxiety and help you maintain calm during your appointment. Deep breathing exercises represent one of the simplest yet most effective tools for managing stress and anxiety. When we're anxious, our breathing becomes shallow and rapid, which triggers our body's fight-or-flight response and intensifies feelings of panic. By consciously slowing and deepening your breathing, you activate your parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and reduces stress hormones. Practice the "4-7-8" technique: breathe in through your nose for four counts, hold for seven counts, and exhale slowly through your mouth for eight counts. Repeat this cycle several times before and during your appointment.

Progressive muscle relaxation involves systematically tensing and relaxing different muscle groups throughout your body, helping release physical tension that accumulates when you're anxious. Start with your toes, clenching them tightly for five seconds before releasing and noticing the contrast between tension and relaxation. Gradually work your way up through your legs, abdomen, arms, shoulders, and facial muscles. This technique not only reduces physical symptoms of anxiety like muscle tension and trembling but also gives your mind something concrete to focus on besides your worries. You can practice progressive muscle relaxation in the waiting room or even in the dental chair before treatment begins.

Visualization and guided imagery provide powerful mental escapes from the dental environment. Close your eyes and imagine yourself in a peaceful, calming place where you feel completely safe and relaxed. This might be a quiet beach with gentle waves, a serene mountain meadow, a cozy reading nook in your home, or any location that brings you peace. Engage all your senses in this visualization – what do you see, hear, smell, and feel in this peaceful place? Some people find it helpful to listen to pre-recorded guided imagery or meditation through headphones during their dental appointment, which simultaneously blocks out clinical sounds and provides a structured relaxation experience.

Mindfulness meditation teaches you to observe your anxious thoughts and physical sensations without judgment or the need to change them. Instead of fighting your anxiety or trying to suppress it, you acknowledge its presence: "I notice I'm feeling anxious right now. My heart is beating faster. My shoulders are tense." This non-judgmental awareness often reduces anxiety's power over you because you're not adding layers of worry about being worried. You can practice mindfulness meditation for just a few minutes daily in the weeks leading up to your appointment, building a skill that becomes easier to access when you need it most. Some dental offices even have calming music, nature sounds, or guided meditation available through headphones specifically to support anxious patients.

4. Modern Sedation and Comfort Options

Today's dental practices offer a range of sedation and comfort options designed specifically for anxious patients, making it possible for even those with severe dental phobia to receive necessary treatment comfortably. Understanding these options empowers you to have an informed conversation with your dentist about which approach might work best for your specific needs and the complexity of your treatment. Sedation dentistry has evolved dramatically, offering solutions from mild relaxation to complete unconsciousness, depending on your anxiety level and the procedures being performed.

Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, provides mild to moderate sedation that helps you relax while keeping you fully conscious and able to respond to instructions. You inhale the gas through a small mask placed over your nose, and within minutes, you'll feel a pleasant sense of calm and well-being. Many patients describe a floating sensation or mild euphoria, and some find that time seems to pass more quickly while under nitrous oxide. The effects wear off almost immediately after the mask is removed, allowing you to drive yourself home and resume normal activities right away. Nitrous oxide is particularly useful for patients with mild to moderate anxiety or those undergoing shorter procedures.

Oral conscious sedation involves taking prescribed medication, typically in pill form, about an hour before your appointment. This creates a deeper level of sedation than nitrous oxide, leaving you drowsy and extremely relaxed throughout your procedure. While you remain technically conscious and can respond to questions or instructions, most patients have little to no memory of the treatment afterward. The medication's effects can last several hours, so you'll need someone to drive you to and from your appointment. Oral sedation is ideal for moderate to severe anxiety or longer, more complex procedures. Your dentist will review your medical history carefully before prescribing oral sedation to ensure it's safe for you.

IV sedation provides the deepest level of conscious sedation, administered intravenously by trained professionals who monitor you continuously throughout your procedure. Under IV sedation, you're in a sleep-like state and will have no memory of the treatment, though you can still respond to verbal cues and physical stimulation if needed. This option is typically reserved for patients with severe dental phobia, those undergoing extensive procedures, or people who haven't been able to tolerate treatment with other sedation methods. Because IV sedation requires specialized training and monitoring equipment, not all dental offices offer this option, but your dentist can refer you to practices that do if it's appropriate for your situation. Beyond sedation, modern dentistry offers numerous comfort measures like heated blankets, noise-canceling headphones, massage chairs, and topical numbing gels applied before injections to minimize any sensation from the anesthetic needle itself.

5. Building Positive Dental Experiences Over Time

Overcoming dental anxiety is often a gradual process that requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to start small and build your confidence incrementally. Rather than forcing yourself into a difficult procedure when you're already overwhelmed with fear, consider beginning your relationship with a new dentist through a simple cleaning or consultation appointment where no treatment will be performed. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the environment, meet the staff, sit in the dental chair, and experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the office without the added stress of anticipating a procedure. Think of it as a practice run that helps desensitize you to the dental environment.

Scheduling regular preventive appointments, even when you don't have active problems, actually reduces long-term anxiety by keeping your oral health in good condition and preventing the need for more extensive, stressful treatments. When you only visit the dentist when you have pain or obvious problems, you unconsciously associate dental visits with negative experiences, reinforcing your anxiety. Conversely, routine cleanings and check-ups that detect and address small issues before they become painful procedures help you build positive associations with dental care. Over time, you'll develop trust in your dental team and confidence that visits won't necessarily be uncomfortable experiences to fear.

Celebrate your successes, no matter how small they seem. Did you make it through a cleaning without panicking? Did you successfully use a relaxation technique during a procedure? Did you communicate your needs clearly to your dentist? Each of these achievements deserves recognition because you're actively working to overcome a genuine fear. Some people find it helpful to reward themselves after dental appointments with something enjoyable – perhaps their favorite meal, a relaxing activity, or simply acknowledging their bravery. This positive reinforcement helps your brain begin associating dental visits with positive outcomes rather than just stress and fear.

Consider joining support groups, either online or in person, where you can connect with others who struggle with dental anxiety. Sharing experiences, coping strategies, and encouragement with people who truly understand can be incredibly validating and helpful. You'll learn new techniques others have found effective, and you might discover that your fears aren't as unusual or insurmountable as you thought. Some people also benefit from working with a therapist who specializes in anxiety or phobias, particularly if dental anxiety significantly impacts their life or stems from traumatic experiences. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has proven especially effective for dental phobia, helping you identify and challenge the thought patterns that fuel your anxiety while developing healthier coping mechanisms.

Conclusion

Dental anxiety is a common challenge that affects countless people, but it doesn't have to prevent you from getting the oral healthcare you need and deserve. By understanding the roots of your anxiety, communicating openly with your dental team, practicing relaxation techniques, exploring sedation options when appropriate, and gradually building positive experiences, you can transform your relationship with dental care. Remember that progress isn't always linear – some appointments might feel easier than others, and that's perfectly normal. What matters is that you're taking steps to address your anxiety rather than letting it control your oral health decisions.

At Lamprey Dental, we understand that dental anxiety is real, valid, and deserves compassionate attention. Our team is specially trained to work with anxious patients, and we're committed to creating a calm, comfortable environment where you feel heard, respected, and in control. We offer various sedation options, take the time to explain every procedure thoroughly, and never rush you through treatment. Your comfort and confidence matter as much to us as your oral health. Don't let fear keep you from the healthy smile you deserve – contact us today to discuss how we can make your dental experience as anxiety-free as possible. Together, we'll develop a personalized approach that honors your feelings while keeping your oral health on track.

Finding a Dentist for Your Kids

By Gerald M • June 27, 2019
More and more parents are starting to recognize how important it is to provide age-1 dental care for their kids but many are still not sure what kind of dentist their child should be seeing. According to Cindy Bauer, DDS, MAGD, a spokesperson for the Academy of General Dentistry, there are many general dentists who are qualified to care for children. “Parents should seek out a dental office that provides a fun environment for children, so that they are excited about coming to the dentist’s office.” This is why so many dentists have gone out of their way to create an office environment that is specifically child-friendly. They may have entertainment available for children and parents including video games, books, games, and access to movies. In order to best prepare the child and avoid any surprises, parents should speak to the dentist about what procedures will happen at the first appointment. Parents should also have a plan in mind for either reaction from the child – a positive or a negative. Remember that very small children may have trouble sitting still during the visit. Build excitement by speaking to the child ahead of time about what they can expect. Also, remember to bring the child’s complete medical history for the dentist to review. If a parent can sense anxiety in their child with regard to the dentist, they should find out whether the dentist is willing to do a pre-visit. In many cases, the dentist will use a pre-visit to ease any fears the child may have by letting them get used to the office. They will give the child a tour of the facility, show them the tools they will use during the exam, let them sit in the dentist’s chair, and possibly even demonstrate on an older family member. The most important thing, according to Carolyn Shreck, D.D.S. , is to make sure children have regularly scheduled visits with their dentist. “This will help them have better oral health for the rest of their lives.” How to Calm Your Child’s Nerves About the Dentist: · Ask the dentist about the best way to explain the dental visit to your child. · Arrange for your child to have a tour of the dentist’s office prior to their visit. · Ask if the child can bring an older family member into the exam room with them. · Avoid giving your child foods with caffeine or sugar prior to the appointment. If you are looking for a Raymond, NH dentist , look no further than the Lamprey Family Dental. We are currently accepting new patients and would love to help you get that beautiful smile you deserve. For more information about our services to schedule an appointment, please click here .

Dental Tips for Your Vacation

By Gerald M • June 22, 2019
Summer is finally here, and many people are finally going on their long-awaited vacations. Of course, nobody wants to have an issue with their teeth when they are away from home but being prepared for this type of issue can help you deal with it faster and get back to your vacation. Here are a few tips on how to handle a dental issue while you are on vacation. They always say that the best defense is a good offense. Make sure that you are up to date on your dental checkups before you leave on vacation. This will help you identify any small issues with your teeth that have the potential to turn into major problems while you are away. Not only will you have more peace of mind, but your dentist will have updated records just in case you do run into trouble. Of course, emergencies sometimes occur, even when you have taken all the right steps to prevent them. Keep contact information for your dentist with your travel documents and make sure that you have the office number in your phone. In many cases, your dentist will be able to help you solve your dental problem over the phone and help you get comfortable until you can come home and have an appointment. If you are out of the country, getting the dental care you need may be a bit more complicated, but it is still possible. Contact the US embassy to find a dentist who was trained in the United State. Cruise ships and resort hotels often have a list of providers for emergency dental services. Ask the concierge to help you set up an emergency appointment. When you are out of the country visiting friends or family, go with their best recommendation for dental care. In the hustle and bustle of preparing for a vacation, we often forget something as simple as packing a toothbrush. If you are stuck without a toothbrush and nowhere to get one, you can still take simple steps to clean your teeth. Rinse thoroughly with water to remove bacteria and sugars from the surface of your teeth. You can also put toothpaste on a washcloth until you are able to locate a proper toothbrush. When you do track one down, an ADA approved toothbrush is best but, if that isn’t possible, try to find one with soft bristles. Most of your favorite toothbrush brands can be purchased in any area of the world. Make sure that when you do pack your toothbrush, you do it with care. When we are at home, our toothbrushes have a chance to dry out. Bacteria won’t grow in a dry environment because it needs moisture to live. However, if you brush your teeth right before you leave, you might not have time to let it dry before you need to pack it. In this case, put your toothbrush in a clean plastic bag and keep it away from other items in your suitcase. As soon as possible, take your toothbrush out so that it can dry completely. Sugarless gum is one of the most important things you can keep on you for your dental health while you are traveling. For one thing, it will offer much-needed relief if you experience ear pressure during a plane takeoff or landing. However, sugarless gum can also help reduce your risk of cavities. If you are indulging in a lot of sweet treats during your vacation, chew a piece of sugarless gum afterward to protect your teeth. If you have a crown or bridge in your mouth that becomes loose during vacation, you can use sugar-free gum as a temporary hold until you can get to a dentist. It can also help as a temporary solution for tooth sensitivity when you’re on the road. Remember that not all areas where you travel will have water that is ideal for brushing your teeth. If you aren’t sure, pour bottled water onto your toothbrush instead. You do not want to have your vacation ruined by an illness as a result of ingesting contaminated local water. After your vacation, get right back to your normal oral hygiene routine. Spend some extra time brushing and flossing to make up for any lapses during your trip. Get back to healthy eating habits. There is no problem with indulging on vacation if you can get back to your normal habits when you get home. Looking for a Raymond, NH Dentists ? Lamprey Family Dental is now accepting new patients. For more information about our services or to request an appointment, click here .

Habits That Could Prevent Cavities in Children

By Gerald M • June 15, 2019
We all know how expensive raising a family can be in today’s world. When you start adding dental bills into the mix, the costs can really start to get out of hand. Unfortunately for most parents, it is a do as I say world, but that is not how children work. They are like sponges and watch every move we make. More importantly to realize is the fact because parents are literally their world, they try to emulate everything mom and dad do as well. Keep that in mind when it comes to your oral health regimen because you need to set the example for your children and show them how to properly care for their teeth the moment they understand tasks like brushing and rinsing. Here are some tips to help ensure you keep your child’s dental health in check and maybe yours as well: Don’t Miss Dental Appointments – this is literally the most basic of oral hygiene regimens. You simply cannot afford to miss a dental appointment because what often happens is you start to become afraid to go for fear of what you may find out. Keep the appointment, period. Sweets Between Meals – ideally, you avoid sweets. But, let’s face facts, we like them just as much as our children do. When picking snacks for the children, try to pick snacks that are healthy and hand them a bottle of water with the snack. Instead of candy, try some frozen grapes or blueberries. Make a game of swishing water around in the mouth after they are done eating to reduce the residue on their teeth. That will suffice until you can get them home to brush. Drinks Before and After Bed – if you are like me, you tend to take a drink to bed with you. For many parents, this often means some type of fruit juice in a sippy cup for the children, which is a big mistake. All the sugar in the drink will be sitting in their mouth all night long eroding away at the tooth enamel. The nighttime drink should be water, period. Brushing Before Bed – getting kids to brush their teeth before bed can be a nightmare, but it is a must to ensure good oral health. Today, there are numerous children-themed toothpastes as well as cool toothbrushes that can be used to make it fun. Put an egg timer on the sink and if they brush for the entire two minutes, give them a reward. You have to make them want to brush their teeth because this is a habit that will last them a lifetime. Do you need to make a dental appointment for your children? If you are looking for a Raymond, NH dentist , Lamprey Family Dental is accepting new patients. For more information about our services or to request an appointment, please click here .

Why Are Teeth Sensitive After Dental Visits?

By Gerald M • June 8, 2019
If you make regular dental visits, you may sometimes notice your teeth are a bit more sensitive after getting treatment. These sensations usually fade over time, however, there are times when that sensitivity continues without abating. Today, we are going to look at how and why this happens as well as what you can do to address it. Deep Cleaning Will Impact Sensitivity For most people, the bi-annual visit to the dentist means the removal of bacteria under the guns and tartar that has calcified on and between the teeth. The dentist or oral hygienist will use a regular pick as well as a small water pressure tool to remove this. For more severe cases, a root planing is done, usually in quadrants (generally, you are also given a local to numb the area being cleaned). When this is done, is it not uncommon to experience sore gums, bleeding gums, and extra-sensitive teeth, especially after a planing is conducted. One of the reasons the teeth will often feel a bit more sensitive is because the plaque has been removed from the surface. These parts of the tooth are once again exposed to the elements. In a normal situation, the extra sensitivity should start to subside in a day or so, and everything should be normal within a few days, a week at the longest. As you brush your teeth, carefully, throughout the week, this will actually help the situation along. In the meantime, avoid eating excessively cold or hot food. When possible, use a straw to drink your liquids to avoid direct contact with the teeth. If the problem persists, however, you should contact your dentist to alert him or her of the situation. Taking Care of Teeth After a Deep Cleaning It is important to understand that even though you may be experiencing some extra sensitivity from your teeth and gums, you still need to maintain a regular oral health regimen, however, there will be some moderate changes in the usual activity. For instance, you should avoid flossing for a day or so to allow the gums to recover. If, however, you have a water flosser, you can reduce the setting and use it to massage the gums and remove loose particles from between the teeth. When brushing your teeth, be sure to use a tooth brush with soft bristles so as not to aggravate the situation further. As mentioned above, avoid liquids of extreme temperature and use a straw to drink when possible. Are you in need of a dental cleaning? If you are looking for a Raymond, NH dentist , Lamprey Family Dental is accepting new patients. To learn more about our service or to schedule an appointment, please click here .

Taking Care of Your Oral Health Between Dental Appointments

By Gerald M • June 2, 2019
For many individuals, their next dental appointment may be their first. A far too common thought process is if you are brushing twice daily and flossing, there is simply no need to go to the dentist. That, obviously, is wrong. Regardless of how strict of an oral hygiene regimen you have on your own, bi-yearly dental visits are imperative to ensure good oral health. Now, since it may have been some time since you last visited a dentist or it is your first visit, here are some tips on how to prepare for a visit to the dentist’s office: Learn How to Brush Properly For as long as most of us can remember, we have been brushing our teeth. The question is, though, are you brushing your teeth the right way? Here are the basics in how to brush your teeth properly: · Use soft-bristled brush · After adding toothpaste to the brush, place the brush at the gumline at a 45-degree angle and brush gums before brushing your teeth · When done along the gumline, focus on brushing the front of the teeth before doing the rear · The brush should move vertically across the teeth rather than horizontally (this helps remove plaque from all angles) · Ensure you reach the rear of your mouth to brush the molars (which are often missed, creating the biggest problems for dental visits) Flossing Properly After you have brushed and rinsed, it is time to floss. This will ensure the small food particles left behind and wedged between teeth and under gumlines are removed. Start flossing at the rear bottom, slipping the floss between the teeth and gently moving it upwards. Once the lower level is done, repeat the process on the upper level. For even better results, invest in a water flosser, as they are far more effective than using standard floss. Using Mouthwash The use of a proper mouthwash is just as vital as the first two steps. Today, there are so many varieties and brands, it is virtually impossible not to find something both effective and palatable. You may want to discuss a specific brand with your dentist to ensure you are using a mouthwash most compatible with your needs/concerns. When rinsing, swish a small amount of mouthwash around vigorously for about a minute, then spit out. Looking for a new Raymond, NH dentist ? Lamprey Family Dental is now accepting new patients and we would love for you to become part of our dental family. For more information about our services or to make an appointment, please click here .

The Impact of Sugary Drinks on Teeth

By Gerald M • May 29, 2019
Now that the warmer weather is saturating the country, the consumption of sugary drinks is going to escalate considerably. Be it sweet tea or a sports drink or soda pop, people will be tossing them down to quench their thirst and battle the heat. With each sip, though, depending on the type of drink being consumed, you could be doing considerable damage to your teeth. Sure, it may take some time to come to fruition, but all that sugar will take a toll. Defining ‘Sugary’ Drinks It is very important to make note that even some drinks deemed healthy can actually do damage if the proper oral hygiene regimen is not in place. In this particular category, fruit drinks come to mind. Drinks like orange juice, cranberry juice, and smoothies fall into this category. While they may be “healthy” drinks, they also happen to be loaded with sugars. The Damage Whenever you toss down one of these sugar-packed drinks, you are unleashing the sugar on your teeth. While you may believe you have swallowed every ounce of the drink, rest assured, remnants of it are left behind on the surface of the tooth. When this happens, the bacteria in your mouth meant to consume the sugar are also doing damage to the surface of the tooth, eating away at the enamel. Eventually, that enamel gets weaker and we see the beginnings of a cavity forming. Avoiding the Damage of Sugary Drinks The obvious answer here is to cut out sugary drinks altogether, but that is not realistic, especially for health enthusiasts and athletes. For many people, those sugary drinks are the difference in completing the long run or ride and bonking out. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to minimize the damage done and keep the risk of cavities to a minimum. Today, there are several options for rinsing your mouth on the go. Listerine is now selling “portable” chews that can be used. When you are really in a crunch, simply take some water and swish it around in your mouth to get as much of the sugar off your teeth and out of your mouth as possible. For athletes, simply carry an extra bottle filled with water and sip that after sipping on your sports drink. If you have been putting off going to the dentist, now is the time to get your oral health back on track. If you are in need of a Raymond, NH dentist , Lamprey Family Dental is now accepting new patients and we would love to have you join our family! For more information about our dental services or our contact information to make an appointment, please click here .

What Can You Eat After a Tooth Extraction?

By Gerald M • May 23, 2019
Although it is an outpatient procedure, tooth extraction for both adults and children is a major medical procedure that will require at least one day of recovery. In some cases, it takes several days if several teeth were extracted or if it was difficult to remove them. Dentists recommend having this type of procedure during vacation periods when patients are already at ease and have the time available to heal. Following the extraction, it is necessary to eat a diet of soft foods that will not irritate the area during recovery. Ice Cream If a patient does not have sensitive teeth, ice cream is one of the first things that they should reach for following a tooth extraction. Even the sorest mouths can generally handle ice cream because it is both soft in texture and cool in temperature. In fact, it is so cold that it can often effectively reduce swelling of the gums as a result of the procedure. Soft serve ice cream is the best option but remember that this is not the time for candy toppings or sprinkles that can get into the healing gums and cause complications. It is also important to remember to rinse your mouth out after eating to avoid any sugar buildup. Cool Soup Another meal option following a tooth extraction is soup, served either cool or lukewarm. At certain times of the year, especially summer, smooth gazpacho may be an even better option than a cool broth. Not only is soup easy to ingest following oral surgery, but it is often packed with nutrients and protein that can aid in the healing process. Make sure you choose a soup that is as smooth as can be to avoid any discomfort. Small noodles or pieces of vegetable are fine but you should avoid any ingredients that would require you to chew while your mouth is healing. Scrambled Eggs Scrambled eggs are a great option after oral surgery because they are nutrient-rich but also soft and require very little chewing. Just make sure that they have adequately cooled before you eat them. Smoothies A fruit smoothie is one of the best ways to get your daily dose of nutrients following a tooth extraction. Blend your fruits with yogurt to enhance your smoothie with calcium, probiotics, and protein. Using a dairy base for your smoothie also reduces the acidity from the fruit, making it less likely to irritate your gums as they heal. If you are in need of dental care and looking for a Raymond, NH dentist , consider using Lamprey Family Dental. We are currently accepting new patients and would love to hear from you. For more information about our services, please click here .

What to Expect After Recognizing the 4 Stages of Gum Disease

By Gerald M • May 2, 2019
After recognizing the four stages of gum disease, you must take immediate steps to control your condition before it gets any worse. Gum disease that is left unattended for too long could result in the need for painful surgery or even in the loss of your teeth. Unfortunately, many people wait after recognizing the 4 stages of gum disease because they are nervous about what comes next. Knowing what to expect makes it much easier to move forward and improve your dental health. Recognizing the 4 Stages of Gum Disease There are four stages of gum disease, each with increasingly serious consequences for your overall oral health. For the best chance of recovery, it is vital that you notice the early signs of trouble with your gums. For example, if you notice blood in the sink when you brush your teeth, you may be experiencing the early signs of gum disease. Bad breath, shrinking gums, and sensitive teeth are also common signs of gum disease that often go overlooked by the folks suffering from them. A Deep Cleaning One of the first steps that your dentist will take the correct your gum disease is a deep cleaning. This is a much more in-depth process than the cleaning you would have at a normal checkup and may require more than one visit to complete. The cleaning will include work below your gum line in order to make sure that all of the bacteria is removed from the area. Your dentist may also complete a process called scaling, which involves scraping plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums. Additional Treatment In some cases, your doctor may also prescribe medication to help control the infection in your gums before it begins to spread. This may be an oral antibiotic that you take over a period of weeks or, in some cases, an antibiotic gel that you apply directly to the infected area. Whatever the case may be, it is important that you follow your dentist’s instructions and complete the prescription, even if you think that your symptoms have stopped. If you think spot any of the four stages of gum disease, you should make an appointment with your dentist immediately. Early intervention can prevent much more serious issues as your disease progresses through the stages. Although it can be scary, remember that the longer you wait, the more serious the procedures will be to correct the damage done. If you are in need of a dentist and looking for a Raymond, NH dentists accepting new patients, Lamprey Family Dental can help. For more information about our services and location, click here .

The Facts About Chipping a Tooth

By Gerald M • April 14, 2019
Whether you’ve been chewing on hard candy or crashing your mountain bike, the second you feel something inside your mouth that won’t dissolve or melt, you know you just broke a tooth and are about to panic. Enamel may be the most mineralized, hardest tissue in your body, but even its strength is limited, especially if any teeth have some decay on them already. If you’ve chipped a tooth, there’s no need to panic, because there are plenty of things your dental professional can do to help. Caring for a Chipped Tooth It goes without saying, but you need to schedule a dental visit immediately when you break, chip, or fracture a tooth. Otherwise, there may further damage or even infection, which could lead to you losing your tooth. Until then, try adhering to several self-care practices: · If you’re in pain, take acetaminophen tablets or similar OTC pain relievers. Rinse out your mouth using salt water. · In the event of a break with jagged, sharp edges, cover the break with sugar-free gum or wax paraffin to protect your tongue, cheeks, and lips. · If you need to eat, choose softer foods and try to avoid biting using your broken tooth. Treatment for chipped teeth will vary by the severity of the damage. Small pieces of enamel breaking off usually just requires one visit, but badly broken teeth may call for longer, costlier procedures, including some of the following: Dental Bonding For teeth that are visible when you smile, a process called bonding will likely be used to repair your tooth, which involves using a composite, tooth-colored resin. To bond your damaged tooth, a dentist uses a gel or liquid to roughen the tooth’s surface, which allows the adhesive material to stick better. Then, the material is applied to your tooth along with the resin. Once this bonding material has been shaped like a regular tooth, ultraviolet light is used for hardening the bond. Dental Crown or Cap When large pieces of tooth break off, your dentist might file or grind away part of that tooth before covering it with a cap or crown, which can be made of all resin, all ceramic, metal, or porcelain fused to metal. Installing a crown often takes two dental visits, with the first involving X-rays for inspecting the tooth’s roots and the surrounding bone. Then, the dentist numbs the surrounding gum and tooth before removing part of the remaining tooth. Next, the dentist uses a putty-like substance to take impressions of the tooth that’s getting the crown and the opposite tooth the crown will be touching. During the next visit, the provisional crown your dentist placed is removed, and they check how your permanent crown fits before it’s cemented in place. Dental Veneers When the front teeth are chipped, veneers can make them look healthy and whole again. They’re thin shells of teeth-colored porcelain or composite material, which cover the front of teeth and have thicker sections for replacing broken or missing parts. To ready your tooth, the dentist removes between 0.3 and 1.2 mm of enamel from your tooth’s surface and then takes impressions to send to the lab. Once your veneer is completed, you go back to your dentist, where they place it by etching your tooth’s surface and roughening it. After a special cement is placed on the veneer, it’s placed into position on the tooth and then a special light is used to harden the cement. In need of dental care? L amprey Family Dental would love to be your new dentist. To see a full list of our dental services, click here .

Getting Over the Fear of Going to the Dentist

By Gerald M • April 3, 2019
Unfortunately, many Americans seem to have “dentophobia,” which is a fear of the dentist, and this prevents adults and even children from all around the U.S. from receiving preventative cleanings and dental care. However, this can always change, especially when you choose a dental practice that’s committed to promoting an environment free of stress, worry, and fear while addressing the needs of your dental hygiene. To help you get over any fears you have of the dentist, check out a few of the following tips: Pick the Right Dental Team A lot of the fear people have of dentists in general comes from those who’ve work on their teeth. Luckily, it’s very easy to go and shop around these days in order find the right fit for your dental needs. After a quick online search, you can find a team that fits your insurance and payment requirements as well as having exceptional reviews from patients. For parents, it’s also essential to search for a dependable family dental practice that knows just how to put the little ones at ease once they’ve sat in the chair. Communicate Admitting you have fears will go far in helping you address them, whether they’re caused by embarrassment over your teeth’s condition or a previous bad experience. This is a perfectly natural response, and if your dentist knows about your fears, they’ll most likely tell you that you have nothing to fear. For instance, it’s normal to be nervous about needles, but an experienced dentist will go over everything with you before a procedure if you ask. Also, you can tell them how much pain you can tolerate, as the best dental professionals are receptive to these details when providing numbing gels and anesthesia. Most dental procedures aren’t painful, but, luckily, ones that may cause some discomfort are typically over fast. Bring Support If you’re worried about an upcoming dental visit, feel free to bring support, as just knowing there’s someone waiting for you can help provide comfort, especially if they’re willing to be your anxiety sounding board. Also, it can be nice knowing someone will be there for you after your cleaning or procedure has been completed. Deep Breathing Another simple trick that will go far toward eliminating your fears is deep breathing, which is known to be a powerful stress reliever. This technique is helpful for many facets of life, and visits to the dentist can be made much easier with it by loosening you up. During your next dental visit, try taking one deep breath repeatedly, and remember there’s nothing for you to worry about! If you are looking for a new dentist, Lamprey Family Dental would love to add you to our growing list of satisfied patients. For more information about our dental services, click here .