I have a TON of dental questions. Please answer all or one!?

Question

1) I hate my dentist and need a new one soon. I'm due to go to the dentist in like 2 weeks.
2) It seems like when I brush my teeth a lot, I get like 2 cavities every time I go to the dentist, but when I don't brush as much as I should, I don't get any cavities? Is there a chance that plaque like protects my teeth, or that toothpaste erodes them?
3) I always feel so nervous when I go to the dentist, but I can't afford sedation dentistry. I've had issues since I had to get 2 teeth pulled for braces when I was 12. It hurt like heck and now I'm afraid everything will.
4) what is your opinion? Is it better to go to a smaller dental practice, or a larger one?

In your sources, when you answer any of the questions, if you could please tell me if you have any experience in the dental field, although I listen to anyone's advice.

Answer 1

No, plaque does not protect your teeth. It contains acid that eats away the enamel. The toothpaste is not eroding the enamel away, not unless you are just scrubbing as hard as possible with the most abrasive toothpaste made. I don't think that your brushing, or not brushing habits is what makes you have cavities one time and not another. I have seen dentists mark down problem areas as "watches" and then the next visit, they tell the patient that "watch" is now a cavity. Perhaps that is part of the situation.

You need to go to a private practice, in my opinion with an older dentist, or one who has been in practice a long time. Look for one who advertises "GENTLE DENTAL CARE" or "WE CATER TO COWARDS". These type offices deal with patients with high dental fears all the time.

Answer 2

Annie, I get asked this question a lot. #1. It comes down to genetics, unfortunately. Look at your parents. Which one has bad teeth, or both? That's where you got it from. There are a lot of factors such as hardness of enamel, pH of saliva, etc. What you eat does influence these factors. Not brushing isn't the problem for you. I have some patients who come in once every 3 years and have no tartar and no cavities. Then I have patients who come every 3 months with tons of tartar and cavities and they brush 4x/day! You just have to deal with the card you're delt. #2. Call 1-800-DENTIST if you don't know anyone you can ask. Asking your friends and people around you is the BEST way to find a good dentist. Word of mouth is golden. #3. To your last question, it can be "normal" for you I suppose if you are doing everything right (brushing at least 2x/day, flossing every day, avoiding sugary snacks and sodas). If you aren't flossing, then you will get cavities between the teeth. Flossing is a must if you are prone to getting cavities! You also will want to get a daily flouride mouthwash. "Act" by Johnson and Johnson is perfect. Use it every night, swish for a minute, and don't eat or drink anything for 30 mintues afterwards. Pick up the one that says "Alcohol-Free" on it. Fluroide works to harden the enamel so you won't get cavities so easily. Good luck!

Answer 3

Brushing isnt going to cause cavities. I think it may just be coincidence that you got less cavities when you didnt brush. Have pity on your friends and those who have to talk with you, practice good dental hygeine so your breath is not offensive. I too get nervous going to the dentist but I finally found a dentist that I really like. He is funny and laid back and believes in very painless dentistry. i told him how nervous I was and he goes out of his way to put me at ease. He is part of a large practice but I only see him. In an emergency though you would have a better chance of getting an appointment in a larger practice with longer hours.

Answer 4

NOt everyones teeth are the same. It could be true that toothpaste bothers or irritates your teeth. Brush with hot water and salt and see if the problem still remains.. As far as being nervous - nothing you can do, but try to relax. IT sounds more like anxiety than nerves.. Maybe, if you can get a 1/2 a valuum from someone before you go.. That will help..

Answer 5

Find someone you are comfortable with. If you are really anxious, tell them when you make the appt. and see if there is something you can do (or drug to take).
I've always been to a solo practitioner, so I don't know about large practices.
Getting cavities is hit and miss. You're right, it seems there is no logic to it. I just stick with my Aquafresh because I haven't had a cavity in so many years.

Answer 6

Floss+Mouth Wash+Brushing= Good Oral Health and hygiene!