DOES THIS PICTURE EVOKE FEAR IN YOU??? HAVE YOU WONDERED WHY?
The fear is, unfortunately, what the media, movies, and notoriously 'School Dentists' of the 60s have done to our profession, and no matter how hard we try, we cannot seem to shift this.
DENTISTS ARE NO MONSTERS THE MEDIA SAYS WE ARE!
Would you ever go to your vet, doctor, or gardener and dare declare that you hate their profession? Probably not, right?
And yet, 1 in 5 of the new patients I see think it's acceptable to come in and promptly state: 'I hate dentists, and it's nothing personal!'
But guess what? It does feel personal! We are human; we get offended! Hearing this invariably makes us feel vulnerable. Please don’t tell your dentist that you hate them or their profession!
It really does put us in an uncomfortable position, especially for those who pride themselves on trying to make the experience as pleasant as possible for our patients!
A better introduction might be: 'I have come to you as I have heard nice things about you as a caring dentist.' Say this, and watch how your dentist bends over backwards to make sure you get the best, most pain-free treatment possible!
The media often makes dentists out to be monstrous, but that's not the case. Your old School Dentist is a thing of the past; please don't let your memories of them cause you to fear us!
10 FACTS TO REMEMBER WHEN GOING TO THE DENTIST
Don't tell the dentist, "You hate dentists," the minute you walk in - it puts our defences up for no reason.
Do not be offended by a dentist or hygienist who tells you not to brush enough; if not us, then who?
Dentists and hygienists who take the time to explain brushing and prevention have a vested interest in your well-being—stay with them and listen to their advice.
Not all dental practices provide all treatments. For a dental problem, there are usually a few treatment options, so it's usually in your best interest to do your research and find the right dentist to provide the best treatment for you. For example, if the nerves are dying on a tooth, it can have a root canal treatment or an extraction. The oral surgeon (or dentist with an interest in oral surgery) will suggest extraction and an implant, while a root canal specialist (endodontist/ a dentist with an interest in root canals) will suggest a root canal and crown. Choose practices that have different specialists if you can find one or afford one.
Do not irritate or distract the dentist before a dental procedure; help us provide the best treatment for you. Before the appointment, discuss any concerns beforehand via email, phone, or directly with the dentist/practice manager.
Please do not ask if the injection will hurt. We do our best to minimize pain with proper tools and techniques, but each person perceives pain differently. Expressing confidence in the dentist helps us provide the best care. If a dentist suggests an injection, it's to reduce pain during the procedure. Trust the dentist's judgment.
Hygiene appointments can be uncomfortable due to the removal of plaque and calculus. Thinning enamel, exposed dentin, and exposed roots can all make teeth sensitive and aggravated by the loss of covering. Imagine standing in the snow and taking off your jacket; it is the same, just that on teeth, you do not want the plaque and tartar as a jacket, which causes more issues and thus requires hygiene. Sensitive teeth can be managed with sensitive toothpaste and a few dietary controls.
X-rays are safe and essential for diagnosing hidden issues, especially in between the teeth and under the gums and bone; they should be done regularly. Recommended guidelines are that they be done every 2 years as a routine (bitewings) for normal-risk people and more frequently for high-risk people.
Be respectful to all staff members at the dental practice. We are a team working to provide you with the best care possible. Remember, we are human and make mistakes, so your kindness and understanding are appreciated.
Studies have shown that people who change their dental practice often end up with more treatment. It is in your best interest to find a practice that does most of the dental work in-house and has good google reviews , and to stay with them.
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