Dr. David D. Gianino

How to Combat Dental Anxiety

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 10:59:54 GMT

Is your dental anxiety stopping you from visiting a dentist in Lunenburg, MA? Here's how to manage your anxiety and take care of your dental health.

Dental anxiety affects up to 80% of Americans. If you're afraid to go to the dentist for any reason, how can you manage your anxiety in order to get the health care you deserve?

It's understandable to feel a sense of anxiety whenever you have to get your teeth worked on. You can feel vulnerable, and feel nervous that your procedure might be painful.

Having dental work done can be an emotional experience , but we're here to help you through it. Here's how you can beat your dental anxiety and visit your local dentist in Lunenburg MA.

Symptoms of Anxiety

Knowing what form your anxiety takes will help you combat it. Not everyone reacts the same way, and you might not even recognize the symptoms of an anxiety attack.

Here are some common physical reactions to anxiety:

Sweating
Shortness of breath
Shaking
Feeling too hot or too cold
Rapid heartbeat

Anxiety from fear of the dentist can show up as a sleepless night, racing thoughts about your visit, or the feeling you need to cancel your appointment. Knowing the symptoms will help you determine what's the best course of action so you can get the dental care you need.

Before Your Appointment

Battling dental anxiety starts before you step foot in the office. It's important to arrive at your appointment relaxed and well-rested.

The day before, try doing some light exercise, like yoga, where you have to focus on the poses. Deep breathing exercises and positive affirmations go a long way towards convincing yourself that your visit will go well.

Write down any questions you might have the night before so that you feel prepared when you step foot in the dentist office. Make sure you get a good night's rest, too.

During Your Appointment

Once the big day arrives, you'll feel more confident if you have a game plan. Start by bringing a friend with you; even if they can just stay in the waiting room, it can be a comfort to have a friendly face nearby.

Talk to your doctor about your concerns. Ask them to explain every part of the procedure so that nothing catches you by surprise.

Your dentist will no doubt have dealt with others who have experienced fear about dental issues. They will surely be understanding and help put you at ease.

If you feel that your anxiety is so great that it's a real barrier to getting dental care, why not consider sedation dentistry? It might be a solution if you're still feeling too nervous.

Visit Your Dentist in Lunenburg, MA Today

Now you can feel confident you can conquer any fears you might have about visiting your dentist in Lunenburg, MA. With these techniques, you'll feel great about making your appointment and sticking with it.

Anxiety feels scary and can seem overwhelming. By keeping your end goal in sight -- tackling your dental care -- you can overcome these negative emotions.

Are you ready to schedule your visit to a dentist Lunenberg, MA? Reach out to us today and get the compassionate care that you deserve.

Why It’s Important to Keep Baby Teeth Cavity Free and In the Mouth?

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 20:03:35 GMT

If you have never had the pleasure of brushing a child’s mouth with their arms and legs flailing while they’re screaming and crying, consider yourself lucky. In my house, wrestling 2.5 year old twins every night to get their teeth brushed and flossed properly is a full contact sport and completely worth the effort. Here’s why:

Primary/baby/first teeth save space for the child's future permanent teeth by remaining in the child's mouth until the permanent tooth underneath is ready to emerge through the gums and push the baby tooth out.
Baby teeth facilitate healthy chewing, which builds and strengthens baby’s face and jaw muscles.
Baby teeth help them progress through developmental milestones like eating solid foods and learning to pronounce words.
Some adults are missing the permanent tooth that are meant to replace the baby tooth, sometimes causing the baby tooth to actually serve as the permanent tooth for a long time, even for life.
Babies have a lot of pain in their mouths the first few years of life due to the teeth actually growing in and adding tooth decay or abscess discomfort to their list of “growing pains” is certainly something to avoid.
Having healthy baby teeth will create a positive relationship with dental check-ups and the importance of oral hygiene care.

When a baby tooth is lost too early, the permanent teeth can drift into the empty space and make it difficult for other adult teeth to find room when they come in. Decay on a baby tooth can also impact the health of an adult tooth. With the permanent tooth forming right below the baby tooth in the jaw bone, the adult tooth can be compromised if the infection travels down the roots of the baby tooth and starts causing decay on an unerupted adult tooth. If an abscessed primary tooth develops, it needs to be treated by a dental professional right away because children are especially susceptible to having teeth infection spread to other parts of the body, including the brain.

Developing a structured brushing and flossing routine early in a child’s life will set them up for positive experiences at the Dentist. When children regularly have professional cleanings and periodic exams with cavity-free results, they will be more likely to continue visiting the dentist and keep up with their oral hygiene at home for years to come.

How to Take Care of Baby Teeth

When your baby doesn't have any erupted teeth yet, it is important to take a warm clean wash cloth and wipe the gum ridges at least once a day. This will protect against thrush and let you feel if there are any teeth starting to poke through. As soon as the first tooth erupts, brushing with an extra soft bristle baby toothbrush is indicated.

If your child is in the toddler stage or younger, it’s best to brush their teeth yourself. If they are particularly independent, give them the tooth brush and allow them to brush their teeth first. Once they are finished, tell them you need to “check” how well they did and this is when the parent needs to brush them again and floss. I prefer the flossers for my children because they are easier to handle when flossing your child’s mouth. Brushing should be done 1x in AM and brushing and flossing should be done 1x in PM, right before bed with no juice, milk or snacks following the night time brushing and flossing.

If your child is out of the toddler stage, still supervise and critique their brushing and flossing when needed. You may need to continue brushing your child’s teeth until they are able to do an acceptable job. Some parents allow their child to do the AM brushing all by themselves and then at the evening brushing and flossing, the parent takes over and gets a really good cleaning in before bedtime. I’m okay with either technique, just as long as it gets done.

After age 2, children can use toothpaste with fluoride. Before age 2, using fluoride free toothpaste or just water is fine. When using toothpaste, use a very small amount of toothpaste on the brush until they are old enough to spit out the extra. Even then, no more than a pea-sized amount of toothpaste is needed.

Regular visits to the dentist should start as soon as the baby teeth start emerging from the gum. However, if you have questions about your baby’s mouth health or baby teeth coming in, always reach out to your dentist or pediatrician right away.

Is Oil Pulling Worth The Effort?

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 14:58:06 GMT

Oil pulling is a type of Ayurvedic medicine (a traditional Indian system) that dates back 3,000 years involving the swishing of oil around the mouth for 15-20 minutes. This was a way to cleanse the mouth back before modern dentistry had been developed. Now, we can get the same benefits from simply swishing any mouthwash containing fluoride for 30 seconds and go on with the rest of our day.

The Science Behind Oil Pulling

There are hundreds of good and bad bacteria in the mouth. The bacteria reach an equilibrium if provided a favorable environment. This is usually achieved by having a healthy diet and thorough oral hygiene care routine at home.

Throughout the day, having some plaque accumulate on teeth is perfectly safe because it will be removed by brushing and flossing later that day. However, if it gets out of hand and not removed daily, it can start to cause various problems, including bad breath, gum inflammation known as gingivitis, cavities, and bone issues known as periodontal disease.

The way oil pulling works is by swishing coconut, sunflower or sesame seed oil around the mouth for approximately 20 minutes. During this process, the plaque cells are coming into contact with the oil, a fat, which is naturally adhering to the bacteria and sweeping the bacteria away in the oil. This all sounds great however it takes around 15-20 minutes of constant swishing every day to gain these benefits which is easily achievable by simply swishing mouthwash for 30 seconds.

What Oil Pulling Won’t Do For You

We all have that one friend or family member that swears by oil pulling. And truthfully, if they are adding oil pulling to a solid oral hygiene routine of brushing 2x/day, flossing 1x/day and substituting mouthwash for 20 minutes of oil pulling, then it is benefiting them, but no more than what mouthwash would do.

Also, oil pulling is never a substitute for brushing or flossing. Oil pulling won’t magically heal tooth decay or regrow receding gums. There is also no evidence that oil pulling will draw the “toxins” from your bloodstream or whiten your teeth by dissolving stains on the surface.

What Does It Mean?

I don’t know about you, but I do not have the time or patience to oil pull 20 minutes every day. So in short, I believe oil pulling is a fad. Even though it's been around for 3,000 years, the use of it has faded over the decades because smarter practices and techniques are being discovered every year in all areas of medicine. It’s the same reason why doctors no longer prescribe ketchup to cure indigestion and heartburn like they used to in the 1830’s. Medicine has evolved, and so has dentistry.

The best (and fastest) way to ca re for your oral health is to brush at least 2x/day, floss 1x/day and if you prefer a mouthwash, swish 1-2x/day with a fluorinated mouthwash. However, brushing and flossing will continue being the two most important ways to care for your oral health at home. And as always, don’t forget to have regular check-ups with your dentist and dental hygienist!

Traditional Flossing vs. Water Flossing: Which is Better?

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 20:20:58 GMT

Using a manual or electric toothbrush at least 2x/day is an effective way of removing plaque from the surfaces of the teeth. However, brushing alone cannot get rid of food particles that are hiding between the teeth or below the gum line. This is why it's extremely important to set a daily routine for removing debris between the teeth with floss or water flossing, as well as brushing every morning and evening.

How does traditional flossing with string work?

Floss comes in different thicknesses usually coated in wax to make it “glind” easier between teeth. Using a “C-shape” with floss around each tooth, the string gently scrapes up and down on the surface of the tooth and removes plaque and food particles from the tooth and gums.

Pros to traditional flossing:

Affordable and efficient
Easily accessible to purchase from most convenient stores
Easy to carry, keep in vehicle and use just about anywhere

Cons to traditional flossing:

Reaching the back molars can be hard for some people
Flossing can sometimes be uncomfortable, especially if not done regularly or properly
Floss can be difficult to handle by some people suffering from arthritis or mobili ty issues

If you find flossing especially difficult or painful, check with your dentist or dental hygienist for proper technique and demonstration.

How does a water flosser work?

Water picking with a water flosser utilizes a special wand attached to a water reservoir that directs a pressurized stream of water into the mouth and gums. Water flossing uses the concentrated water to massage the gums and flush the food debris away from the teeth.

Pros to using a water flosser:

Easy to use around bridges, braces and other dental work
Studies have shown the massage and irrigation action of the water can rapidly improve gum health
Able to reach areas in the back of the mouth that are too difficult to be reached with traditional string floss

Cons to using a water flosser:

Easy to use around bridges, braces and other dental work
Studies have shown the massage and irrigation action of the water can rapidly improve gum health
Able to reach areas in the back of the mouth that are too difficult to be reached with traditional string floss

The Verdict:

The most important thing is to clean between your teeth and under the gums every day, especially at night before bed. Which of these two techniques is best for you is a question that your dental professional should answer. For example, a patient with bridges would do better with a water flosser vs. a patient without spaces between their teeth.

Ways to achieve optimum oral health:

In addition to traditional flossing or water flossing, there are several at home techniques that are associated with good oral health:

Brushing teeth thoroughly twice a day for 2 minutes each time
Switching from a manual to an electric toothbrush like a Philips Sonicare
Flossing once a day with either string or water
Visiting the dentist and your dental hygienist regularly for cleanings, preventative X-rays, and check-ups
Don’t forget to have annual wellness visits with your family physician since oral health is directly linked to overall health

Still have questions? Visit the American Dental Association (ADA) website by clicking the link below:

https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/floss

Cosmetic Dentistry Questions to Ask a Dentist Around Me

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 17:37:01 GMT

Are you wondering: What cosmetic dentistry questions should I ask a dentist around me? Learn more about what to ask here.

A bright, beautiful smile is something that we all dream about. Many of us with crooked or unsightly teeth shy from important work, social, or romantic opportunities due to a lack of confidence or self-esteem. The reality is that only around one-third of adults have naturally straight teeth.

Cosmetic dentistry relates to dental hygiene and the appearance of teeth and gums. Examples of cosmetic dentistry include:

Teeth whitening
Dental veneers
Dental crown
Dental bonding
Dental implants
Inlays and Onlays

In this blog post, we will look at the questions you should be asking a cosmetic dentist during your consultation. For the best dentists in Lunenburg, MA, choose our professional team .

1. What Treatment Is Best for Me?

Whether you are interested in simple smile enhancement or a complete makeover, your dentist will be able to advise on the best treatment for you.

There will be several factors to consider before deciding on the best treatment option, including the current state of your teeth and gums, your unique dental health needs, your budget, and your ideal smile.

When consulting with a dentist around me, ask for their professional and honest opinion. They will be able to discuss with you the benefits and risks involved and help you feel comfortable with proceeding with a particular treatment.

2. Can I See Before and After Photos?

As the saying goes, A picture says a thousand words. This is especially true within the field of cosmetic dentistry. Cosmetic dentists should provide you with before and after photos from other patients who have received the same treatment that you are considering.

This will help you to gain a good understanding of how much your appearance can be approved with this type of treatment. As well as a dentist can explain a particular procedure, photos are the best way to understand the benefits of a procedure.

3. What Is the Estimated Cost of Treatment?

When looking for a dental office near me for cosmetic treatment, the cost will be one of the most important factors to consider. Always ask up for an estimated cost of treatment and make sure that there are no hidden fees. It's also useful to ask about any payment plan options that are available.

If you are unsure, you can meet with several cosmetic dentists to gauge the average price. Click here to learn more about our financial information and our promise to our patients.

For the Best Dentists in Lunenburg, MA, Choose Our Team

Here at David D. Gianino Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we offer a wide range of cosmetic dentistry treatments to help you smile your brightest and most confident smile.

Our team of dentists in Lunenburg, MA are experienced, qualified, and friendly. We believe in offering unparalleled patient support, guiding them through every step of the journey, and helping them to choose the treatment that best suits them.

Contact our team today to learn more.

How to Choose the Right Cosmetic Dentist Near Me

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 17:21:40 GMT

Are you asking yourself the question: How can I choose the right cosmetic dentist near me? Learn more about making the choice here.

Do you visit the dentist as often as you should? Many people admit to not getting oral care as often as they should because of dental anxiety or a busy schedule. However, it can also be because they haven’t found a dentist they’re comfortable with.

Finding the right cosmetic dentist is vital. It won’t always be easy but it will always be worth it. So, if you’re searching for a ‘dentist near me,’ take a look at these top tips on how to pick the best one for you.

1. Ask for Recommendations

Asking family and friends for recommendations on a dentist in Lunenburg, MA, is one of the best things you can do. If someone from your close circle has had a bad experience with a dentist, you can bet you’ll hear about it. More importantly, it’s a great way to find a dental office in the area that you can trust.

2. Location

Think about the best location for you. Would it be better to find a dentist near your home or would it be more convenient to find one closer to work? Searching for a dentist in the area online will provide you with close results so you can start to narrow your search.

If you can’t find a suitable dental care office near you, you may have to think about traveling a short distance to find a practice that offers what you need.

3. Book a Visit

You don’t have to register as a patient until you’ve been to take a look. The staff at a dental hygiene office should always be willing to meet potential new patients and show them around the office. It’s okay to ask questions while you’re there.

When it comes to your dental health, you need to be sure you’re putting yourself in the right hands.

4. Think About Your Choice

You don’t have to decide on the spot. Go away and think about your choices. It’s worth finding out if your insurance will cover cosmetic dentistry . Just ask them to search dentist 01462 and give you a list of options. Don’t let any dental office hassle you into making a decision quickly

The Best Dentist in Lunenburg, MA

At Dr. Gianino’s Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, you’ll never have to worry about the standard of service you receive. As a valued patient, you’ll be welcomed by friendly and professional staff that offer a range of different services. Why not take a look at the reviews of our dentist Lunenburg MA?

From cosmetic dentistry to orthodontics and more, we will do our best to find a solution to every dental problem. We strive to make the experience one that you enjoy so you never have to dread making an appointment with your dentist again.

Dentist Near Me: Finding the Best

Feeling comfortable with your dentist is paramount. So, when it comes to searching for a ‘dentist near me’, you won’t find better than Dr. Gianino.

Take a browse through our website and contact us with any queries.

How to Pick the Right Dentist in Lunenburg MA

Mon, 24 May 2021 12:26:01 GMT

Choosing a dentist is a big decision. We're here to help with this guide on how to pick the right dentist in Lunenburg MA.

You're ready to make your and your loved ones' dental health a higher priority this summer, and you know you can't do it alone. That's why you're bound and determined to find the perfect dentist in Lunenburg, MA.

Smart thinking. Research shows that only 25% of people in America were extremely happy with their oral health in 2018. At the same time, 42% of people in America said they do not see the dentist as frequently as they desired.

The question is, where exactly can you find the right dentist for you and your family. Given that choosing a dentist is a big decision, we've compiled a guide on how to pick a good dentist in Lunenburg, MA.

Let's get started!

A Dentist in Lunenburg, MA, Should Offer Comprehensive Dental Services

First and foremost, it's critical that you choose a dentist who offers a broad range of services that your entire family can take advantage of.

For instance, look for a dentist who can perform minor work, like cleanings and fillings. At the same time, search for a dentist who can do major work, like solutions for straightening teeth and even dental implants, which are designed to replace missing teeth.

Figure out which types of services are integral to you and your loved ones. Then, make sure that the dentist you select is trained to provide those services so that you get the most out of your dental experience. This is critical because not all dentists are trained to offer a wide range of oral health care procedures.

Convenient Financing

Before you and your loved ones take trips to the dental office, make sure that your chosen dentist makes dental treatment financing a convenient and patient-centric process.

As a general rule of thumb, the dentist you select should actively involve you in their financial arrangement process. This is true no matter how small or large your oral care investments may become.

For instance, look for a dentist that offers financing options so that you don't have to cover the full cost of a necessary treatment upfront. One option that is popular among dentists today is CareCredit, which offers patients a medical care credit card to cover treatment costs.

Also, make sure that your dentist accepts many payment types, ranging from cash to check and credit cards (like Discover, MasterCard, or Visa).

In addition, make sure that your dentist accepts your dental insurance plan, if you have insurance coverage. In this situation, the right dentist will help you with the insurance process by submitting any insurance claim on your behalf.

Staff Flexibility

Finally, choose a dentist who can cater to your entire family's needs by offering a schedule that you can all squeeze into.

For instance, if you work a 9-to-5, or if your children go to school, look for a dental office that offers evening and early-morning hours along with daytime hours. This will make it easier for all of you to consistently stay on top of your exams and treatments long term.

How We Can Help

As a leading dentist in Lunenburg, MA, we offer a wide variety of dental services designed to meet the needs of your entire family.

For instance, with our preventative services, we perform dental examinations and cleanings to track and maintain your oral health. We also offer Invisalign and Fastbraces to quickly and inconspicuously straighten teeth. You can also replace missing teeth with our dental implants.

Get in touch with us to learn more about how we can restore your teeth to health and keep your pearly whites strong in the years ahead.