Don't Let the Dentist Scare You: 5 Tips

Do you get a little nervous before you visit your dentist? Well, as a Chicago dentist, I hear from patients that they are nervous when they show up to my Park Ridge dental practice... at least the ones that are new.

It is fear that drives millions of Americans from getting the proper preventative oral health care that they need. However, there is no need to be fearful of the dentist! Don't worry, we do not take it personally, people are afraid of visiting any doctor. Going to the dentist, at least this Chicagoland dentist, is more comfortable than ever before. Here are five tips for helping your calm thoughts win over your nervous thoughts.

1. Do relaxation techniques before your visit, even during your visit. You can take deep breaths, meditate, think of happy thoughts, etc. If it is a child, then they can bring a stuffed toy that helps them gain confidence. 
2. Bring someone with you. Select someone to join you to the dentist office that is comforting and soothing. For a child, this might be a parent. For an adult, maybe a significant other or best friend. 
3. Step-by-step. Go for a shorter appointment rather than a long one. Start with a cleaning and then schedule follow-up appointments at a later time (you don't want to go too long between, though). 
4. Distract your mind. Listen to the music. Get lost in thought. Etc. Of course, you will still need to answer important questions from the hygienist or dentist. 
5. Talk about it. If you are fearful, then talk about it with our Park Ridge dental staff and we can work something out that helps you remain calm. We can adapt treatment to your needs and even offer you sedation options (this can be added to your bill). 

Why Use Custom Mouthguards?

Play is the new word of the day. Whether you're enjoying family fun time or your favorite sport, just getting out and playing should always make you smile. Just make sure you protect that smile with a great mouthguard.

Custom-made personalized mouthguards:

• Offer top-notch protection
• Fit comfortably & stay in place
• Allow you to talk & breathe easily
• Growing jaws & new teeth can be accommodated properly

Mouthguards, especially Under Armour Mouthguards, protect more than just the teeth and face. There is also evidence that they reduce the incidence and severity of concussions. Everyone, including grownups, should wear a mouthguard during activities that put them at risk of injury; for example, hockey, football, basketball, and even mountain biking should be enjoyed with a mouthguard. 

Like any sports gear, a mouthguard will wear out. Bring yours along to every checkup to confirm that it's providing optimum protection. 

If you have any questions, then contact Rubino Dentistry- a dentist in Chicago. We offer custom fit mouthguards from Under Armour. A performance mouthguard can even give you the confidence to perform better! 

Smile Whitening Frequently Asked Questions

Getting your teeth whitened can be a great way to improve your smile. However, people often have questions when it comes to getting smile whitening.

What is the difference between dentist-supervised whitening and drugstore kits?
Rubino Dentistry prescribed home systems and in-office treatments are customized to your unique needs. we can determine the most effective whitening procedure for you based on they type and extent of the staining and the location and number of restorations you have.
Will whitening brighten my restorations too? 
No, however, you and Dr. Rubino can discuss options so that older restorations are not able to sabotage your new, beautiful smile.
At what age is it safe to start whitening? 
Sensitive pulp is closer to the surface in younger teeth, so age is 18 is usually considered the youngest age we recommend so patients avoid irritation. Our recommendation is important! If you visit another Chicago dentist, they will likely tell you the same thing.
What options do I have if I need to repair damaged or discolored teeth? 
There are many wants to repair teeth and even improve their shape while also making them look whiter. Beautiful white bonding or porcelain veneers can correct damage and imperfections. Old, silver fillings can be replaced with attractive, tooth-colored fillings.

If you have any questions about teeth whitening, then contact Rubino Dentistry.