#Flossing techniques
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#Tooth decay prevention#Oral hygiene tips#Dental care routine#Toothache remedies#Gum disease prevention#Teeth cleaning techniques#Tooth sensitivity treatment#Dental check-ups importance#Fluoride in dental care#Toothbrush selection guide#Flossing techniques#Pediatric dentistry#Cosmetic dentistry options#Dental implants#Orthodontic treatment options#Wisdom teeth extraction#Oral health education#Dental emergencies#Oral cancer screenings#Periodontal disease management
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#dental health#dental care tips#brushing tips#flossing techniques#healthy diet for teeth#preventing dental issues#smile brighter#oral hygiene#daily dental care#expert dental advice#dental health awareness#teeth cleaning#importance of dental care#oral health tips#dental hygiene practices#fight cavities#gum health#fluoride benefits#tooth brushing routine#flossing benefits
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Do you think Peter learned how to breakdance when he got his powers just to add flare to his movement?
i think peter parker had been trying and failing to breakdance long before the spider-bite, and is just happy to discover he finally has the upper body strength to actually pull it off now
#sci speaks#i don't think peter ever learns the genuine technique for anything. he freestyles.#he's an academic nerd. he is bad at sport and always will be. even if he's physically athletic he just doesn't learn the technique.#he'll always be bad at it. he doesn't get the rules#same as breakdancing he just freestyles. he will never know how to dance. and he'll never be able to floss either. he just can't.#wade can.#i also think peter could never master martial arts or anything because of that. he just relies on instinct.#i know he learns martial arts in the comics shuuut up i know i know he does but it's only because he loses his spider-sense.#i don't think he'd devote the time to learning a sport or dance or martial art.#i think he just doesn't see the benefit. he wings it. all the time.#“like yeah okay i could devote all the time to learning that. but i could also just. punch it.”#he's so funny he's so funny.#i love my apathetic loser guy who has SUPER STRENGTH but is also too lazy for sport.#he could become an olympic athlete. but he just doesn't wanna.#he could become a world-famous breakdancer. but he doesn't wanna.#he does all of those things but with no discipline whatsoever.#no discipline. that is why wade kind of hates him.#he picks up new skills so effortlessly but he has nOOO DISCIPLINE. he doesn't care about technique or rules.#but he pulls it off anyway. wade is fuming.
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#ive had teo dentist appts yesterday and today and the only advice they had was abt my brush technique on my permanent retainer#ive been flossing regularly and my god girls. it helps!#but nothing feels like the teeths after a fresh clean. i feel fresh and fancy#anyway im gen curious cause im sooo paranoid about my teeth and eye health i feel like im in the minority lol
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A piece, I like to call "Anxiety"







Yarn, embroidery floss, felt, jasper beading stones.
ETSY | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | KO-FI
#briar's embroidery#stress relief embroidery#nature inspired#a play with many techniques and stitches#free hand#my pattern#my piece#paint with floss {embroidery}#build a scene {mixed media}#im so into queue#old project 2024
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when people joke about the dentist making their gums bleed or chiding them for not flossing. SKILL ISSUE
#flossing atm and thinking about how at my first visit in 4 years he said#that i have excellent flossing technique😎😎😎
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“Ground pork “ noodle option is labeled as “Chendu”
#personalice#Idk if that’s a city or cooking technique#mom#had this pork floss? once that was a salty topping#tho in a takeout menu id rather it be full pieces/slcies#tho#other than that greasy bbq pork I uslay don’t get pork options at Chinese takeout s#tho hope rice noodles are foood#good *’ but now I’ll have to go back#to try their egg soliton#option* wonder if I could’ve asked for an extra egg#shame they didjt have samples but usually places outside of ice cream/yogurt shops don’t do that lol
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5 Common Dental Myths That Are Hurting Your Teeth
There’s a lot of misinformation floating around when it comes to dental care. Some of these myths may seem harmless, but believing them can actually damage your oral health in the long run. From skipping dentist visits to relying on home remedies, it’s time to separate fact from fiction. Here are five common dental myths that could be hurting your teeth — and what the professionals recommend instead.
Myth 1: You Only Need to See a Dentist When Something Hurts
Many people avoid visiting a dentist in Dhaka unless they’re in pain. But waiting for symptoms to appear can lead to bigger, more expensive problems down the road. Tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections often begin silently. Routine check-ups help catch these issues early and prevent them from worsening.
Dental professionals recommend seeing your dentist at least twice a year for preventive care. Regular visits also include cleanings, screenings, and advice tailored to your oral health needs.
Myth 2: Teeth Whitening Damages Enamel
A lot of people shy away from professional teeth whitening out of fear that it will weaken their enamel. The truth is, when done under expert supervision, whitening is completely safe and non-damaging.
Most dental clinics use advanced techniques and products that protect your enamel while removing stains. Instead of relying on untested home remedies like lemon juice or baking soda, trust a certified dental specialist in Dhaka who can recommend the right treatment for your smile.
Myth 3: All Oral Surgeries Are Painful and Risky
Thanks to modern advancements in dental technology, surgeries are safer, quicker, and less painful than ever before. Procedures like wisdom tooth removal, jaw alignment, or implant placement are now routinely handled by trained specialists.
An experienced best oral and maxillofacial surgeon will use proper anesthesia and aftercare techniques to minimize discomfort. The myth that oral surgeries are always painful keeps many patients from getting necessary treatments — often worsening their condition.
If you're experiencing jaw pain, facial trauma, or need a complex extraction, don’t hesitate to consult a best oral surgeon. You're more likely to recover faster with fewer complications when the procedure is done by a specialist.
Myth 4: Brushing Harder Means Cleaner Teeth
Many people believe that applying extra pressure while brushing will make their teeth cleaner. In reality, aggressive brushing can erode enamel, irritate gums, and cause sensitivity. The right approach is using a soft-bristled toothbrush in circular motions for two minutes, twice a day.
If you’ve noticed persistent bleeding while brushing, it might be time to visit a dental clinic in Dhaka. A professional cleaning may be needed, or you could be showing signs of early gum disease — something best diagnosed by a best dentist in Dhaka.
Myth 5: All Dentists Offer the Same Level of Care
This couldn’t be further from the truth. Dental expertise varies widely depending on education, experience, and specialization. For instance, someone dealing with trauma or a jaw disorder should see an oral and maxillofacial doctor, not a general dentist.
Choosing the best maxillofacial surgeon for complex procedures ensures better outcomes and faster recovery. Likewise, someone seeking aesthetic improvements should research the best dental clinic near me with proven success in cosmetic dentistry.
Location also matters. If you're based in Dhaka, specifically in Dhanmondi, it's wise to book your appointment with the best dentist in Dhanmondi — someone who is both conveniently located and highly rated by locals.
Final Thoughts
Dental myths often stem from outdated advice or internet misinformation. But the consequences of believing them can be serious — from delayed treatment to permanent tooth damage. If you’re ever unsure, your best option is to speak with a trusted dentist in Dhaka Bangladesh who can give you accurate, personalized advice.
By relying on professionals and staying informed, you’ll not only avoid common dental pitfalls but also keep your smile healthy and bright for years to come.
#A beautiful smile isn’t just about genetics—it’s about daily habits and lifestyle choices. The good news? You don’t need fancy products or e#consistent changes in your everyday routine can prevent most common dental problems and help maintain a confident smile for life.#Here are some easy#proven changes that can have a big impact on your oral health.#Prioritize Consistent Oral Hygiene#Brushing twice a day and flossing once daily might sound basic#but these steps are non-negotiable. Poor oral hygiene is the root of most dental issues. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toot#cavities#and gum disease. If you're unsure of the best technique#a dentist in Dhaka can provide helpful guidance tailored to your needs.#Watch What You Eat (And Drink)#Sugary drinks and sticky snacks are your teeth’s worst enemies. Switch to water#dairy products#and crunchy fruits and vegetables#which help clean teeth naturally. Avoid frequent snacking throughout the day#as this gives bacteria more chances to feed and produce acid. Patients seeking advice from the best oral and maxillofacial surgeon are ofte#Quit Smoking and Tobacco Use#Tobacco is one of the leading causes of stained teeth#bad breath#gum disease#Don’t Ignore Jaw or Tooth Pain#headaches#TMJ disorders#Wear a Mouthguard If You Grind at Night#Many people grind their teeth in their sleep#leading to enamel erosion#Certain dental conditions#facial trauma#or cysts#Not Just Cosmetic
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From the Foxtrot to the Floss: How Dance Styles Have Adapted Over Time
Introduction: Dance is a universal form of expression that has evolved over centuries, reflecting changes in culture, society, and technology. From the graceful movements of the foxtrot to the energetic rhythms of the floss, dance styles have continuously adapted to the trends and preferences of each era. In this article, we will explore how different dance styles have transformed over time,…
#Adapted#Contemporary art trends#cultural heritage sites#Dance#digital art techniques#evolution of dance styles#famous art museums#Floss#Foxtrot#history of modern art#how to appreciate classical music.#impact of art on society#influential artists of the 21st century#popular cultural festivals#significance of folklore in culture#street art and graffiti#Styles#Time#traditional cultural practices#traditional music from around the world#understanding abstract art
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The Essential Guide to Flossing: Benefits, Techniques, and Best Practices for Optimal Oral Health
Maintaining a bright, healthy smile goes beyond brushing; flossing plays an equally essential role in preventing oral health issues. Unfortunately, many people either skip flossing or are uncertain about the correct technique, potentially leaving harmful bacteria in their mouths. This guide explores the importance of flossing, effective techniques, and expert-backed best practices, aiming to…
#best flossing techniques#dental floss types#dental health#dental-care#dental-health#dental-hygiene#flossing benefits#flossing tips#fresh breath#gum disease prevention#health#how to floss#importance of flossing#oral hygiene#oral-health#oral-hygiene#plaque removal
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How to Maintain a Healthy and Happy Smile

A healthy smile is more than just a cosmetic concern – it’s a key indicator of overall health and wellbeing.
At Capture Life Dental Care, we believe that a healthy smile is a vital part of living a happy and fulfilling life.
In this blog, we’ll share our top tips for achieving a healthier smile, from simple habits to more advanced treatments.
Tip #1: Brushing Basics
Brushing your teeth is one of the most important habits for maintaining a healthy smile. But are you doing it correctly? Make sure to brush for at least two minutes, twice a day, using a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Don’t forget to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the front, back, and top.
Tip #2: Flossing Fundamentals
Flossing is often overlooked, but it’s a crucial step in removing plaque and bacteria from between your teeth. Use a long piece of floss and gently curve it around each tooth, making sure to go beneath the gumline. Don’t snap or force the floss, as this can damage your gums.
Tip #3: Healthy Snacking
What you eat can have a big impact on your oral health. Try to limit sugary snacks and drinks, which can contribute to tooth decay and erosion. Instead, opt for healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Crunchy fruits and veggies like apples and carrots are particularly good for your teeth, as they help to clean and stimulate your gums.
Tip #4: Regular Check-Ups
Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining a healthy smile. During a check-up, your dentist can identify any potential problems early on, and provide personalized advice and treatment. Aim to visit your dentist every six months, or as recommended.
Tip #5: Whitening Wonders
A brighter, whiter smile can make a huge difference to your confidence and overall wellbeing. There are many whitening options available, from at-home strips to in-office treatments. Consult with your dentist to find the best option for you.
Tip #6: Mouthwash Magic
Mouthwash can be a powerful tool in the fight against plaque, bacteria, and bad breath. Look for a mouthwash that contains fluoride and antibacterial ingredients, and use it as directed.
Tip #7: Avoid Tobacco and Smoking
Tobacco and smoking are major risk factors for oral health problems, including gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer. Quitting can be tough, but the benefits to your overall health and wellbeing are well worth it.
Tip #8: Chew Sugar-Free Gum
Chewing sugar-free gum can help to stimulate saliva production, which can help to neutralize acid and remineralize teeth. Look for gum that carries the ADA Seal of Acceptance, which indicates that it meets certain standards for safety and effectiveness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, achieving a healthier smile is within your reach. By following these simple tips and habits, you can maintain a healthy, happy smile for years to come.
At Capture Life Dental Care, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve the smile of your dreams. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you!
#Banjara Hills Dentist#Best Cosmetic Dentist in Hyderabad#Best Dental Care Clinic#Best Dental Care Clinic Hyderabad#Best Dentist in Hyderabad#Brushing Techniques#Capture Life Dental Care#Dental Care In Banjara Hills#Dental Care Tips#Dental Clinic in Hyderabad#Dental Implants Hyderabad#Dentist Hyderabad#Dentist Near Me#Flossing Tips#Healthy Eating for Teeth#Healthy Smile#Mouthwash Benefits#Oral Health#Quit Smoking#Regular Dental Check-ups#Sugar-Free Gum#teeth whitening
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#preventative dental care#ADA dental health#dental check-ups#brushing techniques#flossing tips#healthy diet for teeth#oral health tips#dental prevention#tooth care
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𝑯𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒐 𝑩𝒆 𝑴𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝑩𝒊𝒎𝒃𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑭𝒆𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒆
Not everyone can afford the obvious immediate surgical interventions (boob jobs, lip fillers, Botox, lipo), so I've decided to focus on things that you could implement instead of injectables and surgery.
Become your best bimbo self!
𝑪𝒍𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈:
❥ Change up your outfits to be more feminine.
❥ Go thrifting for new ones if you don't own any that fit your vision. Or learn how to sew and make your own (my current dream goal.)
❥ Look for more feminine fabrics and colours – or which fit your bimbo aesthetic.
❥ Go with a silhouette that is flattering on you and makes you feel confident. Figure out your body shape to do this.
❥ Learn how to walk in heels.
❥ Accessorize: Bags. Jewellery. Piercings.
𝑮𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒍 𝑺𝒆𝒍𝒇-𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒆:
❥ Develop a skincare routine.
❥ Look after your body – moisturize, have uncalloused and soft feet that you take care of, learn lymphatic drainage techniques.
❥ Maintain your hygiene always.
❥ Look after your mental health. Perhaps journal, speak to a professional, or meditate.
❥ Use a guasha for natural face shaping and pampering.
❥ Nourish your body with foods that show you respect it.
❥ Shape your eyebrows. Pluck or wax.
❥ Shave your body hair. Or wax.
❥ Look after your teeth. Whiten them. Floss. Avoid foods and drinks that stain.
𝑬𝒙𝒕𝒓𝒂 𝑻𝒊𝒑:
𝑭𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒔𝒊𝒈𝒏𝒂𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒇𝒓𝒂𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆! 𝑻𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒃𝒆 𝒂 𝒔𝒄𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒏𝒆𝒓 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒔 𝒐𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒐𝒓 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒅𝒐𝒓𝒆.
𝑴𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒖𝒑:
❥ Learn how to do your makeup well and for different occasions.
❥ Putting emphasis on different elements of your face can highlight your femininity and best features. Don't try to hide them. I personally love wearing pink or even purple-toned eye shadows in a smokey look to bring out my greeny eyes.
❥ Learn your face shape and how to work with it.
❥ Femme faces tend to be smaller, softer, and more rounded. Even if you don’t have these features naturally, you can make your face look more feminine through makeup and the right hairstyle for your face. (Know your face shape and then go from there with tips.)
𝑯𝒂𝒊𝒓 ��𝒏𝒅 𝑵𝒂𝒊𝒍𝒔:
❥ Maintain your hair and develop a good haircare routine – use heat protecting spray if you style it with heat, for example.
❥ Incorporate feminine hair accessories like hair bows or bands.
❥ Keep your look simple, clean, and soft.
❥ I get my nails done every three weeks or so, gel nails. But you can be just as feminine with natural or shorter nails. Just make sure they're clean, well kept, and shaped – learning to do your own is super simple.
𝑷𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑭𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝑰𝒎𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔:
❥ Act like the girl you want to become until it becomes your reality. Fake it until you make it.
❥ Work on your mannerisms and inherently feminine body language.
❥ Improve your posture.
❥ Watch etiquette videos, voice and elecution lessons. Avoid cursing and shouting.
❥ Defer to the men, who you trust, when possible.
❥ Socialise and try to lean into your extroverted side. People enjoy the company of those who are at ease with themselves.
❥ Giggle more. Flirt more.
❥ Put your happiest self first when interacting with others. Feminine energy is nurturing and comforting.
❥ Find confidence in the new you. You only get to live one life, so you're already taking more steps than the average person by becoming the authentic and happy you! Take pride in that.
𝑳𝒊𝒇𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒚𝒍𝒆:
❥ Join the gym or find a physical activity you enjoy to ensure you're toned – or if you need to, lose weight. This is also great for your mental health and general wellbeing.
❥ Write down mantras and repeat them every day. These can be bimbo or feminity related. Or they could simply be your goals for the day, week, or year.
❥ Surround yourself with female friendships, feminine women or bimbos like you.
#bimbo doll#bimboification#dollification#bimbo girl#bimbo training#dumb slvt#free use doll#p0wer exchange#bimbo aesthetic#bimbo hypnosis#dollify yourself#feminization captions#forced ferminization#bimboization#bimbo in training#bimbo inspiration#bdsmkink#bd/sm slave#free use slvt#good slvt#good wh0re#attention wh0r3#attention slvt#bambi sleep#bambification
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Floss
The dentist tells me that you should use a new section of floss for every tooth. Otherwise, no matter how hard you strip your gums You are only moving plaque around And digging it in deeper. They show me how to wrap it around my finger, Slowly unravel more as needed, How to change the old for the new And let the new remove the old.
#2494#had my checkup today#they keep telling me to floss...but I've been diligently flossing for years#so hopefully now we've solved the technique problem at the heart of this#teeth#dentist#health#writing#original poem#poetry#spoken word#poem#spoken word poetry#daily poem#poems
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Explore Top Tips for Kids' Healthy Teeth! Join Kids Dental Studio on a fun dental journey, ensuring your child's bright smile and lifelong oral health.
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a neurodivergent spoonie's guide to having teeth
LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This blog is for educational and informational purposes only. This does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. Information on this blog should NOT be used for diagnostics or treating a health problem. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified dental health provider regarding diagnosis and treatment of a dental condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog.
this is as close to a comprehensive guide to dental care as i can make. i'm autistic/adhd/ocd/chronically ill and i've worked in dentistry for several years. i want to use my knowledge to help other spoonies struggling with dental care. i know it can be really hard, but dental health is so important and we deserve healthy mouths just as much as NT/abled folks!!
being neurodivergent and/or chronically ill can make personal care tasks incredibly difficult. so many of us struggle with washing our hair, getting dressed, and cleaning up. but remember: hair will grow back if it's damaged, clothes can be washed when they smell bad, and a dirty house can be made clean again, but we only have one set of teeth to last our whole lives. those pearly whites are worth taking care of!
these tips are based on feedback/questions i've gotten from ND folks on tumblr and facebook, patients at the practices i've worked in, and my own experience. standard disclaimer that this information will not be applicable to every single person, just take what works for you and pass the rest on to the next person. i am also a resource for further information. this is going to be pretty rapidfire, so if you want me to elaborate on anything or have a question about something i didn't address in this post, my askbox is open and anon is enabled. i love talking about teeth and i would love to help my fellow spoonies take care of theirs!
without further ado:
on homecare:
any dental professional will tell you that having good oral health starts at home. taking care of our teeth can be incredibly difficult when our spoons are low, so i've made a list of strategies to make it easier.
best practice is to brush twice per day and floss once per day. this may not be realistic for those of us who struggle with habits and/or executive dysfunction. if you can only remember to brush once per day, brushing at night is the most important.
the ideal order of operations is floss, tongue scrape, mouthwash, then brush. but flossing and brushing are the most important steps in the routine.
brushing your teeth in the shower is perfectly acceptable! personally, i keep one toothbrush in the shower and one on the sink to maximize my opportunities to brush.
if you don't have the energy to floss, a toothbrush with fine bristles like this one is a good compromise.
you should replace your toothbrush or electric brush head every three months. the bristles get worn down and become less effective over time. set a recurring event on your phone calendar to keep track!
if you find it difficult to brush your teeth at all, use a washcloth to gently scrub your teeth until you feel that you've gotten the film off, then use a fluoride mouthwash. they also make single-use waterless toothbrushes like these. i like to keep them on my nightstand for really bad days when i can't even get myself to the bathroom to brush.
this is an excellent guide on proper brushing technique.
an electric toothbrush is an excellent investment. even a cheap one at the grocery store is a huge step above a manual toothbrush. personally, i love quip because they're more affordable than brands like sonicare, and they send you replacement brush heads on a regular basis.
be careful not to brush too aggressively; your brush should glide gently over the surface of your teeth. if you feel a lot of friction, lighten your pressure. brushing too hard can wear away your enamel and damage your gums.
if the mint flavor in toothpaste triggers sensory discomfort, try kids' toothpaste! it has less fluoride than adult toothpaste, but it's still miles better than not brushing at all.
mouthwash is used to neutralize bacteria on soft tissues. use an antibacterial or fluoride mouthwash for healthy gums and strong enamel. listerine original is the best, but they have lots of varieties including gum health, alcohol-free, and many more.
whenever possible, use a straw to drink soda or coffee so it doesn't touch your teeth, and rinse with water after you drink it. try to not sip sugary drinks throughout the day. switching to sugar-free beverages will make a huge difference in cavity prevention.
if you have any gaps between teeth, an interdental brush will help you keep the areas between those teeth clean and prevent decay.
i like to keep a package of floss picks in the living room so that i can floss while i watch tv. the best time to floss is right before you brush your teeth, but there is no bad time to floss.
this video shows proper flossing technique. this video shows proper technique when using floss picks.
dry mouth is a lesser-known cause of cavities. saliva protects your teeth from decay, so when you don't produce enough of it, you're at higher risk. dry mouth rinses like this one are a great defense against this!
remember, something is always better than nothing. brushing once a day is better than not brushing at all. flossing once a week is better than not flossing at all. be gentle with yourself.
on finding a dental provider:
finding a new provider and making an appointment can be confusing and overwhelming when we have low executive function. there are some ways to make it just a bit easier.
if you have insurance, they likely have a tool on their website to find providers in your network. you can usually find this information on your insurance card. this should narrow down your options considerably.
the absolute best thing you can do is find a supportive provider who you can open up to about your struggles with dental care. look up your options on google reviews and ctrl+f "anxiety". if these anxious patients have a good experience, it's more likely you will too.
you can ask for recommendations in your local community's facebook group or subreddit, both of which offer anonymity. specify your needs in your post. chances are, other people in your community have similar needs, and can help you find the right people to meet those needs.
a few people expressed that they avoid the dentist because of a family history of poor dental health, and the fear of having the same problems. i want to assure you that, while dental health does have a genetic component, it is far from the only factor. the most effective thing you can do to prevent dental issues is to go in for regular maintenance. prevention is the gold standard in dentistry.
a lot of us struggle with making phone calls. luckily, it's becoming increasingly common for practices to allow online booking and communication via email. look for these options on a practice's website!
if fear or executive dysfunction is getting in your way, phone a friend for help. sometimes things that are hard for us aren't as difficult for others. maybe your roommate can call the office for you. maybe your sister can drive you to your appointment. don't be afraid to lean on your village.
in the dental office:
a big issue with dental offices is that they are basically a sensory nightmare. while it's never going to be fully comfortable, there are some things you can do to make your experience more tolerable.
be open and honest with your dental providers. if you smoke, tell them (this includes cannabis; they cannot report you for cannabis use even if you're not in a legal state). if you've never flossed before, tell them. their job is to help you, not shame you. if a provider makes you feel ashamed, stop seeing them.
so many people have mentioned they're embarrassed about their anxiety and sensory struggles in the dental office. let me assure you that your providers see so many anxious patients every single day. they're used to it, and they're not going to be judging you. to help illustrate this, i'm going to cite some examples of patients from my practice and the ways we help them manage their anxiety and sensory struggles.
probably the most common concern among patients in our practice is a fear of the numbing injection. i have a pretty severe phobia of needles myself. our dental assistants are well-trained to manage this fear. they distract patients during the shot, and help them breathe through the anxiety before and after. this training is part of the dental assistant certification process, so it should be relatively universal.
you can bring a comfort item with you. be it a stuffed animal, a video game, a book, even a comforting person who can sit with you.
you know that lead vest that they lay on you when they take xrays? you can ask to wear that during your whole visit. it acts like a weighted blanket and it feels so nice and comforting. we have a few patients who do this at my practice.
headphones or earplugs are a lifesaver to drown out all the horrible sounds. i literally refuse to get a cleaning without them. there's even a hygienist at my practice that wears earplugs while she's working because the sound of the cavitron bothers her. there's no shame in it whatsoever.
if your practice offers it, nitrous oxide is a great option for anxiety. most people know it as laughing gas. it puts you in a dreamlike state so you're more or less unaware of what's going on. no joke, this stuff had me so relaxed i fully fell asleep while getting a root canal. you can even get it when you get your cleanings!
a lot of our patients request a specific doctor, dental assistant, and hygienist for their appointments. this is incredibly common. if you find someone that makes you feel safe, let the scheduling staff know that you'd like to see that person each time you come in.
dress comfy. there's no dress code for the dental office; show up in sweatpants if you want.
remember at the end of the day, your dental providers are not there to judge you if you don't have perfect homecare. their ultimate goal is to get your mouth healthy no matter your starting place. i can't speak for every dentist obviously, but the dentists at my practice are incredibly patient and sympathetic and have nothing but their patients' best interests in mind.
again: if you feel disrespected or shamed by your provider, find a new one who will be compassionate with you. you don't owe any provider loyalty, even if you've been going there since you were a toddler.
on recovery:
one of the hardest things to do is build healthy habits when you're starting from an unhealthy place. if you're dealing with poor dental health, getting your mouth healthy again can seem impossibly daunting. i'm here to tell you it is possible, but it takes work.
it starts in the dental chair. your provider should communicate what treatment is the highest priority, and they will start there. rather than overwhelming yourself with the big picture, focus your attention on the next step.
things like root canals, crowns, and periodontal treatment can be very expensive. unfortunately, in the united states at least, dental insurance is quite lacking across the board. if expenses are a concern, dental schools are a great option for having treatment done at a low cost. keep in mind that treatment will often take significantly longer due to the dentists being supervised students.
my job in the practice is treatment coordinator. this means that i work one-on-one with my patients to help them understand their treatment plans and make the process as easy and comfortable as possible for them. ask your practice if they have a treatment coordinator. if they don't, suggest that they create the role, and reach out to me here. my dream is to be able to help people manage their oral health. i will be a resource to anyone that doesn't have a treatment coordinator available to help you navigate your course of treatment.
any restorative work (fillings, crowns, etc.) that you have done has to be cared for, just like virgin teeth. cavities can still form underneath fillings and crowns. make sure you are keeping your regular hygiene appointments, and use the above strategies to effectively care for your restorations at home.
if you have a lot of treatment to work through, it may take a long time. we have patients that have spent 2-3 years working through their treatment plans with us. this can feel daunting and depressing. but remember, it's not forever. the majority of these patients who continue to see us for regular visits only have 1-2 new cavities at a time, if anything, once we finish their initial work.
there are very few dental problems that cannot be fixed. cavities can be filled, crowns placed, root canals done to save teeth that are severely decayed. gum disease cannot be cured, but it can be very effectively managed. i see patients all the time that come in expecting to lose all their teeth and need dentures, only to be relieved when we tell them only a few teeth are truly not restorable.
my job revolves around patient education, and it's always shocking to me how little we are taught about caring for our teeth. please be kind to yourselves; it is NOT your fault for not knowing or having the resources to take care of them yourself. once again, my askbox is open and anon is enabled if you have more questions after reading this guide.
#text#advice#long post#teeth#oral health#chronic illness#disability#mental health#autism#adhd#ocd#cripple punk#spoonie#chronic fatigue#resource#signal boost
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