Dentists Cary NC

Dentists Cary NC

The dental chair has not been your friend. You dread going every year, and quite often, you find a convenient out for taking the annual trip. While everything has been going along fine, it only takes one time for you to bight into a hard object to make your toes curl. Cracking a tooth is not only painful, but it can also end up in significant dental work if not addressed quickly. Don’t let your fear of Cary, North Carolina dentists keep you from seeking preventative and emergency treatment. Take these three tips to heart and plan your visit now.

dentist and patientFind Dentists in Cary NC Who Cater to Scared Patients 

Believe it or not, some Cary NC dentists have taken extra steps to ease the mind of those patients with a real fear of the chair. These dentists may have calming and pleasant office decor, meditative music, and even separate examination areas behind closed doors. All of these strategies were created to make even the most nervous patient feel at ease. When calling a dentist, ask what they do for patients who are afraid of the visit. They may invite you in to speak to the dentist in advance of the appointment. You may get a tour and find out some of the ways the office aims to keep you at ease.

Take a Reliable and Comforting Person 

Some people in your life may have a natural calming effect on you, while others may hype you up. When taking a trip to the dentist, ask someone you trust to go with you. Choose someone who is a calming influence. Avoid anyone else who shares your fear of the dentist. Ask this person to stay with you during your treatment. Just having someone there with you to focus on may help keep you at ease. Another person can also listen to what the dentist has to say and help you process once you leave. An extra set of ears when you are nervous can be a positive addition.

Learn Relaxation Techniques 

Some of the reaction you have when you are worried is a physiological one. It involves an increase in heart rate, which leads to rapid breathing, sweating, and lightheadedness. If you can learn to control these responses, you may be able to keep them at bay. Meditation and relaxation breathing may help you to calm yourself when you start feeling these physical effects of fear. The good news is, you can use these exercises in other areas of your life that may create stress.

A visit to a dentist is necessary for maintaining your health. Therefore, learning to overcome your fear is essential. Call Alliance Dentistry to schedule an appointment with one of our compassionate dentists Cary NC families trust today.

Common Dental Myths You Shouldn’t Believe

No matter how old you are, it is important to make your oral health a top priority. Proper oral hygiene practices can help you avoid dental diseases and improve your overall health. Here are a few common dental myths you shouldn’t believe:

If you’re not in any pain, you don’t have to see a dentist

Too many people wait until their tooth is sore to go to the dentist. If you avoid seeing a dentist until you feel pain, the problem may be more difficult and expensive to treat. Even if you don’t notice anything alarming, it’s wise to visit the dentist twice a year for a checkup. He or she can detect early signs of cavities and other problems through an exam and X-rays.

The harder you brush, the cleaner your teeth will be

This could not be farther from the truth. When you brush your teeth with too much force, you can actually wear down the enamel and make your teeth more susceptible to damage. To avoid this, brush your teeth gently with a soft-bristle toothbrush.

Going to the dentist is painful

A common fear people have about visiting the dentist is experiencing pain. However, with the advances in dental technology, many patients don’t feel any discomfort during dental procedures. If you do feel pain during a procedure, let your dentist know immediately.

Dentists don’t want to deal with nervous patients

Dental phobia is not uncommon and most dentists in Cary, NC understand this. That is why they are likely to be very accommodating to nervous patients. If you feel nervous during your appointment, don’t be afraid to voice your concerns to your dentist.

If your gums bleed, you should stop flossing

Many people are alarmed when their gums bleed and leave them alone. However, you should not do this. The bleeding is due to inflammation, which results from excess plaque between your teeth. If you continue to floss regularly, the bleeding will subside.

Poor oral hygiene only affects your mouth

The effects of poor hygiene go past cavities and gum disease. If you neglect your gums, for example, you can increase your risk of heart problems. The bacteria in your gums can enter your bloodstream and travel to your heart, which can trigger a heart attack. Poor oral hygiene can also lead to diabetes complications and respiratory infections. 

Importance of Regular Checkups

Regular dental visits are always important. Your Cary NC dentist needs an opportunity to check your mouth for any oral health problems. Tooth decay, for instance, gets progressively worse over time. If you catch decay early, then you’re able to use preventative measures and you can take care of the decay quickly. If you wait for too long, the problem worsens. Serious dental issues lead to more serious and expensive procedures. If you want to keep your smile healthy, you have to see your dentist regularly.

Not only will your Cary NC dentist be able to tell you if there is anything wrong with your oral health, but he or she can help advise you on what steps to take while you’re at home. Their assessment of your teeth can help you develop a plan for continued oral health.

How Often Is Enough

Most dentists will recommend that you see them at least twice a year. Usually, they suggest that you see a dentist every six months. This gives the dentist a good time frame to detect early problems and to help you with preventative care. However, this isn’t for everyone. For some people, dental appointments once a year might be good enough.

In addition to your regular appointment, you should get dental x-rays. Some dentists may take x-rays once a year, whereas others may need to take them more regularly. While there are standards that the dental industry uses, it’s important that you speak with a Cary NC dentist to figure out what’s best for you.

When it comes to your teeth, regular checkups are necessary. Even if you feel like your teeth are healthy, there are problems that can sneak up on you. Some problems with your teeth are not going to have symptoms right away. In some cases, even cavities are asymptomatic until they get worse. At the very least, you should see your dentist twice a year. If you’re ready to schedule your regular dentist appointment, contact a Cary NC dentist today from Alliance Dentistry.

What is a Root Canal?

Alliance Dentistry is a popular dentist office in Cary, North Carolina. For years, our dentists and technicians have been making smiles brighter, gums healthier, and mouths cleaner! Whether you are a man, woman, or child, a Cary dentist from Alliance Dentistry would be happy to address your concerns and needs in a timely manner. To learn more about our office, appointment availability, and insurance, please call us today. 

Why Fluoride?

Among several recommendations in preventing cavities by your dentist Cary NC is the use of fluoride. Studied extensively for decades, fluoride exposure has been proven to prevent dental decay.  Because of its role in protecting teeth, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention considers fluoridation of drinking water one of the ten greatest health achievements in the US in the 20th century.

What is Fluoride and How Does it Prevent Cavities?

Fluoride is a mineral found naturally in water, soil, rock and many foods. When exposed to fluoride, teeth can become more resistant to cavities.

The outer layer of your teeth, enamel, is made primarily of the minerals calcium and phosphate, collectively called hydroxyapetite.  All day, the enamel loses and gains minerals. Minerals are lost when acids -formed by plaque bacteria and carbohydrates -attack the enamel. This is called demineralization. When calcium, phosphate and fluoride- from foods, water, and saliva-penetrate the enamel, remineralization occurs. But if there is more decalcification than remineralization, cavities start to form.  When fluoride is present and part of the remineralization process, it forms a tough layer called fluorapetite. Fluorapetite is even stronger and better than hydroxyapetite in resisting decay. And fluoride can even reverse early decay.

Where is Fluoride Available?

Most community water supplies in the United States contain fluoride. Adjustments are made to the level of fluoride in drinking water to obtain optimal amounts for prevention of tooth decay. Grand Rapids, Michigan was the first city to begin adding fluoride to its water system, back in 1945. Since that time, community water fluoridation has been controversial. Years of rigorous scientific study, however, have shown water fluoridation at appropriate levels to be effective and safe. Currently, the U.S. Public Health Service recommends the fluoride to water ratio be 0.7 parts per million, an amount that takes into consideration exposure to other sources of fluoride.

Fluoride is found in certain foods, fluoridated toothpastes and mouthrinses. In addition, your dentist Cary NC can apply fluoride to your teeth as a foam or varnish. These treatments contain much higher levels of fluoride found in toothpastes and mouthrinses. Varnishes are painted on teeth and foams are placed in trays which then sit on teeth for one to four minutes.

Who Benefits From Fluoride?                                                                    

Both children and adults reap the cavity fighting benefits of fluoride. Infants and children from six months to 16 years need appropriate levels of fluoride as primary and permanent teeth come in during these years. Topical fluorides – from toothpastes, mouth rinses, and fluoride treatments – are as important in fighting tooth decay as in strengthening developing teeth.  

Conditions that may put adults at higher risk of tooth decay and would benefit from additional fluoride include:

  • Dry mouth: Caused by certain diseases, such as Sjogren’s Syndrome, certain medications and radiation to the head and neck. Without saliva, teeth are more prone to cavities, because the acids formed during eating cannot be neutralized and remineralization is halted.
  • Gum disease: Which exposes more of the root surface to cavity causing bacteria.
  • Having crowns or bridges: where risk of decay is higher at the crown/tooth interface.

If you are concerned about your risk for developing cavities, talk with your dentist Cary NC about how you may benefit from the various forms of fluoride.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting a Dentist

Regardless of your age, your oral health is important. According to the American Dental Association, there are 100 million Americans who don’t visit a dentist on an annual basis. Unfortunately, these people are at a greater risk for experiencing oral-related problems, including cavities, gum disease, or tooth decay. Many people avoid the dentist out of fear. It is important to understand that most of these fears are based on stories, lore, or one bad experience out of many good ones. Not all dentists are created equal, and thanks to technology, there has been significant improvement in dental treatments, as well as pain-free techniques. Finally, you have a choice in the dentist you choose. It is important to choose a Cary NC dentist that you are comfortable with. By doing so, you will alleviate most or all of your fears and anxieties. 

What are indicators that suggest I need a dentist?

  • You have puffy, inflamed, red, or painful gums.
  • You have dentures, implants, crowns, or fillings.
  • You have lost a crown or filling.
  • You have persistent bad breath. 
  • Your teeth are sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks. 
  • You are having a difficult time with chewing or swallowing. 
  • Your mouth, neck or face is swollen. 
  • You have diabetes or cardiovascular disease. 
  • You are experiencing a chronic dry mouth. 
  • You use tobacco products. 
  • You have an uneven bite.
  • You are undergoing chemotherapy.
  • You are undergoing hormone replacement therapy.
  • You are undergoing hormone replacement therapy.
  • You have a sore spot in your mouth that is not healing. 

What will happen during a checkup?

When you come to our dental clinic, an oral hygienist will discuss your medical history with you, and go over any concerns you might have. An oral examination will be done, and if something is suspected, we will likely take x-rays. Depending on any symptoms you are displaying, we might choose to perform various tests, such as an oral cancer screening. After the exam, you may have a cleaning. 

When should I visit a dentist?

Some people choose to see a dentist in Cary, NC once a year. Others visit every six months. You will have your own dental needs and could be fine with one or two visits per year. On the other hand, if you have dental problems, you may require more visits. 

What should I look for when I am choosing a dentist?

Before you choose the first dentist you find, we recommend taking some time to explore all of your options. You can call the clinic to get a feel for their practice, and if you are really interested, you might schedule a consultation. Most importantly, you want a dentist that you are comfortable with, and one you feel that you will keep for years to come. Some considerations to think about while you look for the right Cary, NC dentist, include:

  • What are the clinic’s hours, and are they right for your schedule?
  • Is the location good for you?
  • Is the clinic kept clean and tidy?
  • Does the clinic offer dental emergency appointments?
  • Are there after hours appointments?
  • Is the dentist willing to take some time to explain the procedures and treatments?

How can I keep a great smile?

Your dentist will encourage you to take care of your oral hygiene at home to ensure you maintain a beautiful smile. Some ways to do this, include:

  • Brush your teeth at least two times per day. 
  • Floss at least once a day, or after eating.
  • See a dentist every 6 months to one year.
  • Stay hydrated with water. 
  • Avoid too much sugar
  • Talk with your dentist about any concerns. 

If you are ready to schedule an appointment with a leading Cary, NC dentist, call Alliance Dentistry today.

Alliance Dentist of Cary, NC

Alliance Dentistry brings unmatched experience across the dental care continuum in multiple settings: hospitals, research clinics and private practices. As a patient, you need a dentist in Cary, NC who is knowledgeable, local and caring. Our deep practice background offers insight, familiarity and confidence to all patients. Contact us now to request an appointment with the best dentist Cary, NC has to offer to you and your family. This foundation shapes our collaborative approach to patient relationships as well as the diagnostic, preventive, restorative and cosmetic treatments we offer.

Alliance Dentistry Cary



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    Client Review

    "great practice:) The Raszkas are the best and all the hygenists are gentle and nice"
    Bryan Harkola
    Client Review