Dentist Benicia | Meade Family Dentistry

You have individual needs. At our practice, we understand that and pride ourselves on our ability to work with each patient on an individualized level. Sedation dentistry provides numerous benefits for different needs. When considering oral sedation dentistry, our team will take many factors into consideration including your overall health. However, if you fit into one of these groups, sedation dentistry might be the best option for you.

Dental Anxiety or Fear

Sedation dentistry can make a fearful trip to the dentist far more manageable. Each day in our office we work with patients who suffer from dental anxiety. Don’t let fear or nervousness hold you back from receiving the dental care you deserve. Contact us for more information.

Gag Reflexes

A routine dental examination can be problematic if you have an overactive gag reflex. Sedation dentistry as part of your dental treatment can be utilized in many of these cases. You will be able to relax comfortably in our office without needing to feel concerned about gagging.

Fear of Needles or IVs

Other sedation options may involve the use of needles or IVs. This can be an additional source of fear if you are anxious around needles. We use oral sedation, which does not utilize any needles or IVs.

Special Needs

Each patient has different needs. Oral sedation dentistry as part of your dental treatment can be beneficial to patients with hyperactivity or those who have difficulty remaining still. Our team is trained and experienced in working with patients with special needs. We will study your medical history before deciding on an appropriate course of action.

Oral sedation dentistry can be a welcome change for you. Don’t let fear, anxiety, or embarrassment prevent you from receiving routine dental care. We will work with you directly and evaluate your individual needs to determine if you are a candidate for oral sedation dentistry as part of your dental treatment. Know that you have options.

For more information about oral sedation dentistry as part of your dental treatment or to schedule your visit to our office, please contact us.

Loose teeth, bad breath, and painful, bloody gums – these are among the signs and symptoms of periodontal, or gum, disease. Unfortunately, periodontal disease can also begin without any obvious symptoms. If left undiagnosed or untreated, you could be at risk for irreparable damage to your teeth and gums. The good news is that periodontal disease is preventable. In fact, one of the most effective tools for preventing the disease only takes a minute of your time each day.

Floss to the Rescue

Dental floss is an effective and easy to use tool that can be among your best defenses for preventing periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is caused by a buildup of plaque and bacteria. Even if your daily oral hygiene routine already includes a thorough brushing that lasts for two minutes, at least twice each day, you should be flossing daily as well. Dental floss is highly effective at cleaning areas where your toothbrush cannot reach. Small gaps and tight spaces between teeth catch food debris and sugars and acids from drinks all day long. Flossing helps to clean out these tough to reach spaces.

Facts Behind Flossing

According to a survey referenced by the American Dental Association, only 40% of Americans floss each day. The same study showed a clear link between regular intra-oral care and better oral health. Unfortunately, many people also lie about how frequently they clean between their teeth. A study from the American Academy of Periodontology found that 27% of adults lie to their dentist about their flossing habits.

Tips for Flossing Correctly

It can be confusing to figure out the best way to use dental floss. Try cutting off about 18 inches of floss and wrapping most of it carefully around your middle finger. Use roughly one inch to clean between each pair of teeth. Using your thumb and index finger, carefully slide the floss between your teeth. Floss to your gumline, but be gentle. Avoid cutting your gums. Work your way through your 18 inches of floss by using a new, clean section between each pair of adjacent teeth.

It only takes about a minute to floss your teeth each day, but these minutes contribute to a lifetime of optimal oral health. Floss is among the most effective tools at your disposal to keep your gums clean and healthy. Get into the habit of flossing your teeth regularly – your gums will thank you.

For more information about gum health, or to schedule a visit to our office, please contact our team.