South Florida Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Blog

An estimated 36 percent of American adults reportedly have some degree of dental anxiety, with 12 percent believed to have an extreme fear. This type of issue can make getting even routine dental exams and cleanings very difficult. In fact, it can often lead to skipped appointments and delayed care. Worse yet, waiting too long to be seen can often make oral health problems worse. What started out as a small cavity may instead require a crown, and a minor toothache could eventually result in a multiple root canals. Even a reversible case of gingivitis could worsen to periodontitis that could someday cost you your teeth and portions of your jaw if not treated swiftly.

If you suffer from dental anxiety, don’t let your fears hold you back from getting the care you need. Here are some useful tips for making your next trip to the dentist a positive experience.

Sedation dentistry has allowed millions of people with fear or anxiety about seeing their dentists to receive the oral care treatments necessary to keep their teeth and mouths in great shape for years to come. If you tend to get nervous at the thought of having a dentist’s appointment, you may wonder if your insurance policy will cover sedation dental treatments. Here’s a brief guide to what your insurance plan may cover.

Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that many people undergo at some point in their lives. While the procedure itself is straightforward, the healing process requires careful attention to avoid complications such as dry socket. Dry socket, or alveolar osteitis, occurs when the blood clot that forms in the socket after tooth extraction becomes dislodged or dissolves prematurely. This can expose the underlying bone and nerves, leading to severe pain and delayed healing. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to minimize the risk of developing dry socket.

Dental anxiety is a common concern for many people, and thankfully, there are various anesthesia options to help ease the experience. The three most common forms used in dental procedures are nitrous oxide (commonly known as laughing gas), intravenous (IV) sedation, and general anesthesia. Each of these methods offers a unique experience, tailored to the needs and comfort levels of the patient. Here’s what it feels like to be under the influence of each type of anesthesia.

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood. While some people experience a smooth transition as these teeth break through the gums, many others face complications, particularly when the wisdom teeth become impacted. Impacted wisdom teeth are those that fail to fully erupt due to a lack of space or because they grow in an awkward direction. This condition can lead to a range of health issues that are important to address promptly to avoid long-term complications.