Ooltewah TN Dentist Blog

Senior Chattanooga Dental Care

Our seniors are precious and need special consideration to remain healthy. Dr. Tedford works to provide affordable senior dental services like dentures, implants, bridges, and more to the Ooltewah, Chattanooga, Collegedale, and Cleveland, TN communities. In fact, we have a dedicated page on this website to specifically address senior citizen dental care needs.

Readers can learn more about minimizing root decay that can lead to age-related gum loss and tooth loss. Lost Bone mass can also harm the jaw and increase the need for dental implants. Wear and tear related to time also impacts how well dentures fit. Decades of exposure to coffee, wine, and sodas show erosion of the dental enamel. Dr. Tedford assists seniors with routine dental care and cleanings, implants, dentures, veneers, bridges, and teeth whitening.

It’s important that our retirement years be spent comfortably, which includes retaining our ability to chew food correctly and without pain to nourish the body. Poor dental health can lead to problematic infections, according to experts at the University of Rochester Medical Center. Brushing teeth twice daily, flossing, and going for regular dentist checkups are recommended as part of a Consumer Reports Health Checklist for Seniors

The Importance of a Senior Chattanooga Dental Care Program

senior dental care chattanoogaIt makes perfect sense that our teeth and gums require extra attention as we get older, the same as other health conditions complicated by age. Some of the unique situations affecting seniors:

  • Tooth Decay from old fillings.
  • Less exposure to tooth-protective fluoride in water systems over their lifetime.
  • Dry Mouth as a side effect of medications to treat chronic health conditions.
  • Reduced saliva production, making plaque more likely to stick to teeth.
  • Receding Gums leave tooth roots exposed, sensitive to temperature extremes, and vulnerable to germs.
  • Tooth and Gum Damage related to diabetes.
  • Oral Cancer Screening after long-term smoking.
  • Loose-fitting Dentures.
  • Complications brushing or flossing due to Arthritis.
  • Seniors generally become more susceptible to disease.

And just because someone is of advanced age, that doesn’t mean we never see patients wishing to correct crooked teeth by getting fitted with braces or have teeth whitened. If someone has been sensitive about his or her smile for most of their life and now have the discretionary income to do it, why not?

Special care is needed when treating dementia patients who suffer from jaw, tooth and gum pain. It’s also a good idea to prepare a list before an appointment to tell Dr. Tedford during visits about all drugs taken by seniors, the dosage and how often these medications are taken. Such information can affect the recommended Senior Dental treatment plan.

Dental Implants Ooltewah

Seniors are the primary consumers of dental products like dentures, bridges, and dental implants. The latter can be a great option following tooth loss, but the patient needs healthy enough gums and bone to hold an implant in place. Bone density loss is a significant concern for women age 65 and older in particular. Discuss this Dr. Tedford during the initial consultation before such a dental procedure happens.

Chattanooga Dental Care for Seniors with Medicare

Access to regular dental care is often difficult for seniors. Medicare doesn’t cover it, and Medicaid coverage is limited. Out-of-pocket expenses can be prohibitive to those on a fixed income. Most seniors must rely on either Medicare Advantage plans or private insurance to get coverage, but there are options.

Programs of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) is a Medicare and Medicaid program that allows people 55 or older who otherwise need a nursing home level of care to remain in the community, covering dentistry, x-ray services, and other services. There are two PACE organization plans in Tennessee, both through Alexian Brothers Community Services

The Senior Dental Care insurance program is available to most Medicaid recipients at no additional cost.  Veterans may be eligible for dental benefits provided through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Ask us about payment options such as payment plans and reduced prices based on need.

Affordable Chattanooga Dental Care for Seniors

Dr. Tedford wants to help seniors keep their natural teeth longer and maintain good oral health so they can smile through their golden years. Call us at (423) 238-8887 or make an appointment to visit our office at 9380 Bradmore Lane, Suite 108, Ooltewah TN 37363.


Photo: © Vadim Gozhda / 123RF Stock Photo

Blog © 2018 Tedford Family Dentistry: Tedford Keith DDS Ooltewah TN 37363

Friday, 06 January 2023 15:56

9 Tips for Denture Care

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Ooltewah Affordable Denture CareBelow are some simple, general tips from our Ooltewah dentist to keep your dentures, either complete or partial dentures, in good shape.

When you visit with Dr. Tedford, he will make recommendations on the best denture solutions for you.

1. Take Your Dentures Out Daily.
If possible, take your dentures out while you sleep. If this is not a good option for you, take them out for 6 to 8 hours a day during another time period. This will give your mouth tissues time to recover.

2. Help Retain Your Dentures Shape

Place your dentures in warm water (or a denture cleanser solution), when they are not being worn, to help retain the denture's shape, remain pliable and keeps it from drying out. Dentures should never be placed in hot water, which could cause them to warp.

3. Clean Your Dentures Daily

Like natural teeth, dentures must be cleaned daily to remove food particles, tartar and bacteria, and to help prevent dentures from becoming permanently stained.

Commercial denture cleansers for removable dentures come as tablets, creams, pastes, gels and solutions. The first step in cleaning dentures is to rinse away loose food particles and remove any denture adhesive.

Denture cleanser tablets are dropped into warm water to create an effervescent solution. Dentures are removed from the mouth and placed in the solution. Soaking dentures in the cleaning solution helps kill germs that can cause odor. The amount of time dentures should be soaked—from a few minutes to overnight—depends on the manufacturer’s instructions.

Denture cleansing creams, pastes or gels are brushed on the denture after it is removed from the mouth and then rinsed off, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Denture cleansers should not be used while dentures are still in the mouth.

Dentures can also be cleaned with toothpaste or soap—mild hand soap or dishwashing liquid—warm water and a soft-bristle toothbrush. However, denture wearers should never use bleach or powdered household cleansers, which can be abrasive, for cleaning their appliance as this may damage the denture.

4. Find Out if You Need Denture Adhesives

A film of saliva typically helps hold dentures in place. Denture adhesives may be used if the salivary glands do not produce a sufficient amount of saliva. Denture adhesives are not, however, a remedy for ill-fitting dentures. A denture that fits poorly (i.e., feels loose or causes discomfort) may need to be relined or replaced as it can contribute to the development of mouth sores.

Denture adhesives, also called denture adherents, are creams, powders, wafers or strips that are used to hold dentures firmly in place. The adhesive also helps form a seal that keeps food particles from sticking between the dentures and gums. Adhesive is applied to clean dentures, which are then positioned in the mouth and held in place for a few seconds, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

During denture cleaning, adhesive should be removed with gentle scrubbing to prevent contamination.

5. Look After Your Whole Mouth

You still need to care for your gums, even with complete dentures. When you take out your dentures, give your mouth a good rinse and then massage your gums with a washcloth or a soft toothbrush. If you have partial dentures, you still need to properly brush and floss your regular teeth every day.

6. See Your Dentist
You still need to see your dentist at least once a year. Dr, Tedford will examine your oral tissues for changes and for sores that might become cancerous and he will also provide advice as to oral hygiene and denture care.

7. Watch for Changes in Fit
If your dentures aren’t fitting properly or don’t feel right, please check in with Dr. Tedford, your Ooltewah Dentist. He may be able to adjust your dentures
or recommend a solution. The gums and bones in our mouths change over time, which can lead to an improper denture fit. Poorly fitting dentures can cause problems like sores, pain and burning and may be a sign of periodontal disease.

8. Nourish Your Body
Be sure to be eating a balanced diet. Research suggests that proper nutrition slows the progress of gum disease, so a healthier diet could even mean a healthier mouth.

9. Use ADA Approved Products

A company earns the ADA Seal of Acceptance by producing scientific evidence that demonstrates the safety and efficacy of its product, which the ADA Council on Scientific Affairs carefully evaluates according to objective requirements.

Look for the ADA Seal—your assurance that the product has been objectively evaluated for safety and efficacy by an independent body of scientific experts, the ADA Council on Scientific Affairs.

For more information, please contact our dental office in Ooltewah TN at (423) 238-8887.
Wednesday, 21 December 2022 19:42

Keeping the Smiles of Chattanooga Healthy

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At Tedford Family Dentistry in Ooltewah, TN, we understand the importance of preventive dentistry in keeping the smiles of Chattanooga bright. With our comprehensive services, we provide patients with the knowledge and care necessary to maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Our commitment to your oral health includes regular examinations and professional cleanings as well as brushing and flossing guidance. By following our personalized plans, you can reduce your risk of gum disease, cavities, and enamel damage that can occur from a lifetime of wear. To ensure you keep your sparkling smile for years to come, contact us today to explore the world of preventive dentistry!

Are these exams and x-rays truly necessary?

Regular dental checkups are an important part of preventive dentistry and one of the best ways to protect your teeth. During these appointments, a qualified dentist like Dr. Tedford will carefully examine your mouth and use x-rays to assess the overall state of your dental health. The exam provides an opportunity for early detection of various conditions such as cavities and sensitivity, giving your dentist an opportunity to recommend treatments that can help reduce or prevent the development of these issues. Carefully following these preventive measures is essential for patients of all ages in order to maintain proper oral hygiene and ensure good long-term health.

Preventive dentistry is crucial for the smiles of Chattanooga’s children.

Regular examinations and cleanings can go a long way toward preventing tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues. For young children, in particular, receiving such treatments regularly is even more important. Providing early encounters with the dentist has been shown to help them form (and maintain) positive impressions of dental hygiene practices later in life. Moreover, teeth that are well-maintained from a young age tend to be much stronger and healthier for longer.

Following each teeth cleaning appointment, it is also recommended that parents ensure their children continue the good habits by brushing twice daily, flossing once a day, and avoiding sugary snacks that can contribute to tooth decay. With the right attention both inside and outside of the office, preventive dentistry treatment can lead to strong teeth and excellent oral hygiene for years to come.

Let your smile join the other beautiful smiles of Chattanooga!

At our family dentistry office, we prioritize your dental health, offering preventive care services to the Ooltewah, Collegedale, Chattanooga, and Cleveland TN communities. Our skilled team of professionals works with you to assess the state of your oral health, make recommendations and develop a unique plan to help preserve your smile! Together we can detect minor problems before they become more prominent and costlier issues that are more difficult to fix. Take control of your oral well-being today - contact us to schedule your visit with our experienced family dentist!
Wednesday, 09 November 2022 17:18

Cosmetic Dentistry Near McDonald Tennessee

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Confidence is everything, and our cosmetic dentistry staff near McDonald Tennessee has the skills to get you feeling confident about your smile! We take special care to ensure your teeth are aligned properly and have multiple opportunities to help you achieve cleaner-looking bites all around. Some examples of options we provide include:

Teeth Whitening Near McDonald Tennessee

The appearance of your teeth is dependent on the color and reflectiveness from the surrounding tissue, as well as any dark stains gathered over time. Thinner enamel allows more dentin to show through, which can lead to darker-looking not-so-pearly whites! The tooth whitening we provide near McDonald Tennessee is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that decreases stains and discoloration on teeth. Many people opt for this service to ensure their smiles are always picture-perfect!

Tooth Reshaping Near McDonald Tennessee

Tooth reshaping, also called contouring, can fix minor cosmetic dental problems like slightly misshapen teeth. Our office near McDonald Tennessee treats this by gently removing tooth enamel with a laser or drill. You'll be able to smile proudly, knowing you received quality work from experts with the experience necessary to bring out your best features!

Dental Implants Near McDonald Tennessee

To accommodate tooth loss, dental implants can replace a tooth's root with an artificial root. Metal posts or frames are surgically positioned under the gums into the jawbone. The placement of these dental implants allows for reliable replacements of missing teeth. In most cases, the results aren't just an improved smile, but a more youthful appearance as well.

Dental Veneers Near McDonald Tennessee

Dental veneers are a quick and easy way to fix many different types of dental problems. They come in the form of thin pieces of porcelain that can be bonded onto your teeth, providing them with a strength similar to enamel. Dental veneers can be very beneficial whenever there are gaps between teeth or when multiple teeth are missing altogether.

Visit Tedford Family Dentistry Near McDonald Tennesee

You deserve to have a smile that lights up the world, and it’s possible by improving your dental health! No matter what type of stain or discoloration you are struggling with, we will combat them together through proven procedures like bleaching and laser treatments. Make an appointment today for your cosmetic consultation near McDonald Tennessee!

Tedford Family Dentistry is the dentist of East Brainerd that the community has come to know and trust with their family's dental care. Regardless of the age of the family member, we can assist in keeping their teeth in tip-top shape!

Pediatric Dental Care

Pediatric dental care is an essential part of a child's overall health and development. Primary teeth begin to erupt between six and twelve months of age and continue to erupt until around age three. This is a crucial time for children to receive proper dental care, learn healthy oral hygiene habits, and have any potential problems with their teeth or jaw development detected and treated early. 

Early dental visits also allow parents to learn how to best care for their child's teeth, and how to avoid or address common issues such as cavities, tooth decay, and the effects of pacifier use, thumb-sucking, or baby bottling on teeth and jaw development. Ensuring that children receive the proper dental care during this crucial time can help them develop healthy habits that will last a lifetime.

Preventive Dentistry

Preventive dentistry is all about maintaining good oral hygiene and educating people of all ages on how to keep their teeth and gums healthy. This includes daily brushing and flossing, teeth cleanings, and examinations. Preventive care can also help detect problems early when they are most easily treated. By taking proactive steps to care for your teeth and gums, you can help prevent serious dental problems down the road.

Senior Dental Care

One of the most important things you can do as you age is to pay attention to your oral health. After years of use, your teeth and gums can become weaker, making them more susceptible to decay and disease. Senior dental care is essential to maintaining a healthy smile, and Dr. Tedford is committed to providing his patients with the latest technology and gentle care. Whether you need a routine cleaning or more advanced treatment, he will work with you to create a plan that meets your individual needs.

Tedford Family Dentistry is the Dentist of East Brainerd

Tedford Family Dentistry is the dentist of East Brainerd for good reason, we are your one-stop shop for any dental needs. Dr. Tedford and our skilled staff are dedicated to providing patients with quality results and gentle dental care at an affordable price. We offer a variety of services such as teeth cleanings, fillings, crowns, and more. We also have a wide selection of dental products to choose from, so you can find the perfect fit for your smile.

Monday, 13 December 2021 13:35

5 New Year's Resolutions to Boost Dental Health

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5 New Year's Resolutions to Boost Dental Health.jpg“Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.” –Oprah Winfrey

With the new year on the horizon, it’s time for us to start planning our resolutions. A new year also means a fresh start for each of us in many ways, and an opportunity to improve ourselves by whatever means we set our minds to. Interestingly enough, there are many new year’s resolution options that can actually help boost your dental health, and here are just a few to consider for the upcoming calendar year!

1– Floss More!

Flossing is one of those things we all KNOW we should be doing at least once per day, but it’s pretty easy to blow it off, or skip it when we’re in a rush or tired and more than ready for bed. That said, resolving to floss your teeth more is a great way to improve overall dental health, eliminating food particles and bacteria from the mouth that can lead to decay and other dental problems.

2– Regular Dental Exams

This potential resolution will be a relatively simple one to honor seeing as you only really need to visit the dentist for dental cleanings and exams twice per year (barring any problems). Making a commitment to see your dentist every six months can be a big step forward in your dental health journey. Cleanings help keep your pearly whites in their best condition, and your checkup and x-rays will help ensure any problems with your teeth or gums are detected and treated early.

3– Get a Night Guard

Another new year’s resolution that can help preserve your dental health is getting and regularly wearing a night guard while you sleep. The only real way to guard against the grind and preserve the integrity of your teeth is to wear a mouthguard while sleeping. Your Tedford family dentist can get you fitted for a custom night guard to prevent tooth damage, jaw tension, headings, and other dental problems by minimizing the effects of grinding and clenching throughout the night. This is a wise investment, and though the night guard may take some getting used to, it will be more than worth it in the long haul.

4– Avoid Stains!

Perhaps your teeth aren’t quite as white as you’d like them to be? If this is the case with you, you could resolve to avoid drinks and foods that can stain your teeth over time. Coffee, tea, wine, and other food and drink can take their toll on teeth, but you can protect your teeth from these stains by avoiding these items whenever possible to protect the cosmetic appeal of your smile.

5– Drink More Water

Isn’t this something we could all stand to do? Probably. Water is like a dear friend to the human body. Getting enough water can result in more energy, healthier skin, better digestion, and much more. Drinking more water can also help boost your dental health by rinsing away food particles that can cause decay, and by introducing your teeth to more fluoride, which is in a lot of drinking water.

No matter what you settle on for this year’s resolutions, our team at Tedford Family Dentistry wishes you all the best in the upcoming year, and we’re here to support you and your family for all your dental health needs. Contact us if you need a cleaning or exam, and cheers to a new year.
Tuesday, 02 November 2021 16:59

5 Dental Tips for the Holiday Season

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Dental Tips for the Holidays

The last remaining months of the year are filled with family, friends, and food– yes, with the holidays comes a full spread of delicious eats and treats that you’ve likely been anticipating all year long. Though you’re surely excited to indulge in all the foods, drinks, and desserts you love while you celebrate the holidays, it’s important to prioritize your oral health during this time as well. So here are five dental tips to bear in mind this holiday season to keep your teeth and gums healthy and happy.

1– Maintain Your Daily Oral Care Routine

Even though the holidays can be a major disruption to our everyday schedules, it’s important to stick to your regular routine as it pertains to oral health. Make sure you continue to brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and that you floss at least once per day too!

2– Don’t Skip Dental Appointments

Of course, the end of the year is easily the busiest of times, but that isn’t reason enough to blow off your regular dental visits. Keep your teeth healthy and cavity free, and your gums in ship shape by keeping those always-important dental check ups and cleanings.

3– Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking water has a slew of health benefits, but is especially important during the holiday season. This busy time of year often has us running ragged, and staying hydrated can help boost our immune systems, keep our skin looking its best, and help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Water washes away food debris and bacteria, and often has fluoride in it to help strengthen teeth while you drink it.

Dental Tips for the Holidays

4– Avoid Grazing

It’s easy during this time of year at holiday parties and family gatherings to eat a little here and there, and graze on the snacks and treats abounding. That said, grazing is not great for your teeth and gums. When you eat, your body produces an acid that aids in the breakdown of food, and that acid is not ideal for tooth health. This is why it’s a good idea for meal times to have distinct beginnings and ends to allow for your teeth to get a break from this process. It’s also a good idea to try to brush or rinse after eating whenever possible.

5– Keep Some Floss Handy

Another pro tip, especially during the holiday season, is to keep some dental floss in your bag or pocket. Not only is it a great idea to pop into the bathroom for a quick floss after meals, but you’ll also be totally prepared if you have an unfortunate spinach dip situation, or something else stuck in your teeth when you’re trying to socialize at the company Christmas party.

These are small and simple ways you can prioritize your oral health during this usually-hectic time of year. Of course, if you have any issues or concerns, contact our team at Tedford Family Dentistry. We’re always here to help! Cheers to the most wonderful time of the year, and to taking the best possible care of our holiday smiles no matter what the calendar brings!

Tuesday, 13 July 2021 16:31

Tips from Your Chattanooga Pediatric Dentist

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What to do if your kid has a cavity

What To Do If Your Kid Has a Cavity

Cavities aren’t ideal, but they are common. According to the CDC, about 20% of children ages five to 11 have at least one, untreated decaying tooth or cavity. Are you wondering what to do if your kid has a cavity? Keep calm, and call your Chattanooga pediatric dentist. When it comes to cavities, the worst thing you can do is nothing. You don’t want to leave a cavity untreated or unfilled, because it will progressively get worse, and cause pain and more problems if you don’t address the issue early on.

Cavities in Children

Several factors can make children susceptible to developing cavities including poor dental hygiene, improper diet, lack of dental care, and even genetics. Though a lack of regular brushing and flossing is often the culprit in the presence of dental caries, it’s not always the problem. Some people are just more genetically predisposed to tooth decay than others. That said, it’s important to teach your children to brush regularly and do what they can to prevent tooth decay.

Cavity Signs and Symptoms

There are several warning signs that your child may be developing a cavity, and when you notice them, it’s best to make an appointment with your pediatric dentist straight away. The earliest sign of developing tooth decay is the formation of chalky, white spots on the tooth due to calcium loss and the presence of plaque. As the cavity begins to form, the area will become light brown, and as the spots deepen, they will darken in color.

Symptoms of a cavity often include:

  • Sensitivity to hot and cold and/or sweet foods
  • Pain from the affected tooth
  • Pain in the mouth surrounding the affected tooth
That being said, some cavities present without causing these symptoms, and that’s why it’s so important to maintain a regular schedule for dental cleanings and exams. This gives your provider the opportunity to detect dental problems in your children early on before they become bigger issues.

Treating Cavities in Children

If your child does develop a dental cavity, your Chattanooga pediatric dentist will present you with the treatment options that make the most sense for your child. Treatment will depend on the size and location of the cavity, as well as whether it’s in a baby tooth or a permanent one.

Dental Filling Types:

  1. Amalgam Fillings– Often used to treat cavities in kids, amalgam fillings are silver-colored, less expensive, and more durable than composites. They are also a faster treatment option so the child spends less time in the dentist’s office. If the cavity is in a baby tooth, this option makes sense while you wait for the permanent tooth to replace the affected one. 
  2. Composite Fillings– This filling type is made from white resin made to mimic the look of real teeth. Though composite fillings are not as durable as amalgam fillings, they are a good option for addressing cavities that are more visible in a child’s smile, or cavities in permanent teeth.

Cavity Prevention

No one wants their child to have to deal with the discomfort or the aftermath of having dental cavities, but they are very common and very treatable particularly when caught early. Still, there are steps you can take to help reduce the risk of cavities for your children including:

  • Teaching great dental hygiene habits early on
  • Maintaining a schedule of regular dental visits including cleanings and exams
  • Make sure your child receives fluoride treatments to strengthen teeth
  • Consider dental sealants to safeguard molars against tooth decay
If you suspect your child has a dental cavity that needs attention, contact our helpful staff at Tedford Family Dentistry near Chattanooga. We specialize in family care and pediatric dentistry, and our team excels at creating a comfortable environment for all our dental patients.
Tuesday, 08 June 2021 15:43

Pediatric Dental Care

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5 Tips to Get Your Kids Comfortable with Dental Appointments Chattanooga

5 Tips to Get Your Kids Comfortable with Dental Appointments Chattanooga

Dental visits can be stress inducing, for patients of all ages, but what do you do when your child is outright afraid of going? There are some things you can do to help ease them into these situations with confidence. Here are 5 tips to get your kids comfortable with dental appointments Chattanooga, and we hope you’ll give them a shot.

1– Start dental appointments early!

Start em young. One great way to ensure your child is totally comfortable with dental appointments is to follow the recommendations of the ADA, and start taking your child to the dentist around the age of 6 months. As soon as your baby starts getting teeth, it’s time to start taking care of them. Early exposure to dental appointments can help create a comfort level with that type of care with your child. Treat it like the routing occurrence it is, and your child will likely follow suit.

2– Stay positive.

Kids pick up on energy. Don’t forget this. If you’re stressed, they feel it. If you’re anxious, they feel it. Lead by example, and take great care of your own teeth at home. When you have dental appointments, make sure your child sees you going into them with confidence. If you have had bad experiences with dentists in the past, keep that under your hat. Your attitude about the whole thing will influence your child more than you might realize.

3– Have a pretend dental appointment at home.

Before your child’s dental appointment, have a trial run at home. Do a little role playing, and make it fun. Your little one might gain some comfort from approaching things this way, and it also provides an opportunity for your child to ask any questions that may come up about the dental appointment and what to expect.

4– Talk about it.

Don’t overwhelm your child with too much information or too many details, but talking about the upcoming dental appointment can really help ease any worries. Talk about how important it is to take great care of your teeth and gums, and explain that the dentist and his staff are going to brush their teeth just like you do at home to make sure they are clean and healthy. Avoid words like scary, pain, and shot, because those will likely just frighten your child. Using neutral language will soothe your child, and create a feeling of comfort and security.

5– Find the right dentist.

Another important factor in instilling confidence for your child regarding dental appointments Chattanooga, is to find the right pediatric dentist. At Tedford Family Dentistry, we work to create an environment where children can feel comfortable. We understand how important it is for kids to feel confident about coming into the office for cleanings and other procedures, and we strive to create a sense of security and comfort with every office interaction.

Some dentists and their staff members have specialized training when it comes to providing pediatric dental care. The key is working with a team that invests time in building rapport and trust with your child, in an environment designed for treating kids. Our team at Tedford understands that this goes a long way.

If you’re looking for a pediatric dentist in Chattanooga, contact our team today. We’d love to take care of your little ones and help steer them toward lifelong oral health.

Monday, 17 May 2021 18:21

Do You Struggle with a Fear of the Dentist?

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Overcome Dental Anxiety by Finding the Right Chattanooga Dentist

overcome dental anxiety with the right Chattanooga dentist

Does the thought of stepping into a dental office cause you immediate waves of anxiety? If so you’re not alone by any stretch. Many people deal with a very real fear of the dentist that can stem from all sorts of things. Some people deal with fear of injections or pain in general, others may feel embarrassment associated with the state of their teeth, and others still have suffered through negative dental experiences in the past that cause dental anxiety. Some people struggle with anxiety so severe that it keeps them from seeing a dentist regularly which only exacerbates the issues. 

Find the Right Chattanooga Dentist

So how do you overcome this dental anxiety or fear of the dentist? There are lots of things you can do, but we think the number one line of defense should be to find a Chattanooga dentist who is just right for you. When you take the time to find a dentist who is able to make you feel comfortable when you’re in his or her care, you’ll be surprised at how much of your dental anxiety or fear will melt away.

Lots of factors can come into play when it comes to your comfort level at the dentist’s office. The atmosphere, the support staff, and the overall feel of the practice can go a long way in helping to ensure your comfort. It also helps to find a dentist who you trust who does great work, has experienced assistants, and who takes the time to discuss things with you to ease your worries about any necessary treatments or procedures.

Relaxation Tactics

Another way to combat dental anxiety is to practice relaxation techniques to help actively calm your mind and body. Deep breathing is a great place to start, as it is instrumental in relaxing tense muscles. Focusing your mind on your breath is also a great way to meditate and center yourself. Counting your breaths can serve as a great source of distraction while you’re undergoing dental procedures that have you stressed, plus this mindful breathing practice also helps to lower heart rate. You can also try systematically relaxing all the muscles in your body from head to toe, starting with the face and neck, and then the shoulders and so on.

Laughing Gas & Anesthesia

Some dentists will use nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, to help relax patients who suffer from dental anxiety. Many patients find that the use of laughing gas is enough to quell their fears surrounding dental experiences. Talk with your Chattanooga dentist about this option if you are feeling extra anxious about your dental visit.

Some dental procedures that are more involved may require anesthesia, in which case your provider will discuss with you the options available. One option that’s sometimes available is conscious sedation. This type of anesthesia involves the use of drugs that depress the central nervous system allowing for the dental procedure to be carried out while the patient is still conscious and able to communicate with the dental staff during the visit. Different levels of sedation through anesthesia are often available during more invasive dental procedures.

Don’t Skip the Dentist

No matter how you address your fear of the dentist or dental anxiety, be sure it doesn’t get so overwhelming that it keeps you from your regularly scheduled visits. Skipping out on cleanings and dental exams can lead to dental problems that are unpleasant and costly to address, and those experiences will only contribute to any negative feelings you may have about seeking dental work. If you are looking for an experienced and caring dental staff in the Chattanooga area, contact our team at Tedford Family Dentistry. We work hard to create an environment in which our patients can feel safe and comfortable while receiving the quality dental care they deserve.

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