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family dentist in hailsham

Children’s Dental Care in Hailsham

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Sometimes you come across a small person that needs all the confidence boosting you can muster. These are patients that need lots of extra care because already in their short life they have been ‘put off’ going to the dentist.

There can be all sorts of reasons for this they maybe autistic, have learning difficulties, be shy, have medical problems or that they have already had a horrible experience at the dentist.

We have sat on the floor drawing pictures, looked at teeth whist a lovely lad did a headstand in the chair and talked about everything from Dr. Who to Manchester United football club!

It’s about knowing what makes these children tick, what we can do to engage with them so that they feel we understand them.  childrens dentist east sussex

At The Dental Barn we have time, patience and bags of enthusiasm to try to help these youngsters. Unfortunately, we don’t always succeed, due to the severity of the circumstances, but we always try!

With frightened children we have had great success and would like to tell you a couple of stories.

A mum contacted me on Facebook and asked about her daughter who refused to go to the dentist because of past harsh treatment and I invited them to come in for a chat.

They bought some bread to feed our ducks and we sat and talked about why and what she didn’t like about going to the dentist. We set goals for treatment which she completed easily and she continues to come to the practice completely fear free. My loveliest memory was when she came rushing into the surgery saying “do you like my new sparkly leggings Ali” with not a thought about treatment.

A mum rang and explained that her daughter was 9 and that she had a huge fear of going to the dentist and of her wobbly teeth.

The dental practice I was at the time thought that she would be better to see me, as I was a mummy too. She came in for a chat and it was evident that she was terrified of everything! So, we started a plan that each time I would set her a little goal and she would get a sticker every time she achieved the goal. Goal 1 was to just get in my treatment chair, Goal 2 chair and open her mouth, Goal 3 chair, mouth and let me look at her teeth. Each goal only took 5-10 minutes and we never failed to reach them.

childrens dentist in hailsham

Fast forward 15 years and that lovely girl has turned into a dentally confident lady who told me last visit that she was off to Australia for a year and might not be back! It has been wonderful to see her grow up and for many years not bat an eyelid at coming to my practice for treatment. She’s coming in for one more visit before she goes and I may have to have a tissue in my pocket!

Time, patience and kindness are qualities that we have in abundance here at The Dental Barn.

 

For more information on children’s dentistry in Hailsham call us on 01323 325397.

 

 

Nervous Dental Patient Treatment at The Dental Barn in Hailsham

Treatment for Nervous Dental Patients in Hailsham

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It never ceases to amaze me just how many people (including children) have had a dreadful experience at the dentist and how one experience can affect their whole life.

So, we started to offer a free no obligation coffee and a chat, to see how we could help people overcome their fears.

About a month ago a lovely lady came in for a chat. She had had some awful dental experiences and then suffered a personal tragedy, which lead to her not having any dentistry done for over 20 years.

Treatment for Nervous Patients at The Dental Barn in HailshamWe chatted about how coming to the dentist made her feel panicky, tearful, embarrassed and most of all worried that hers would be the worst teeth we had ever seen and that they would fall out if we touched them. She also told me she had put on lots of weight and I could tell that she was feeling at rock bottom. But, she had decided she needed to get herself together and had joined a slimming club and now wanted to start looking after herself and get her teeth done.

After a good chat I suggested that we started with a Hygienist appointment to just get her teeth looking better and then she would feel better being able to smile, which in turn would make her feel happier.

Dental Treatment for Nervous Children at The Dental Barn in HailshamSo that’s what we did this week and she was an absolute super star, she found holding our squishy ball helped to have something to focus on! I made her teeth look great from the front (the bit everyone sees) and when I showed her in the mirror she burst into tears of happiness. Now she and I both know that there is a long way to go with her teeth and gums, but that one appointment has made her feel like she can continue with future treatment.

Don’t get me wrong this is a normal lady (who isn’t made of money) but is happy to save up and book the next appointment. A check-up appointment been made, so we can get a proper plan of what needs to be done. We’ve agreed we are going to start with anything that has the potential to give her toothache and go from there. To finish the plan might even take over a year but there’s no hurry and we need to look after her.

Nervous Dental Patient Treatment at The Dental Barn in HailshamIt may not be the right start for everyone, but for lots of nervous people helping them with that first step towards their goal of a great mouth is invaluable.

That’s why I started the practice to help people who had a fear of going to the dentist and we work really hard at ‘not being like a dentist’. We don’t smell, look or feel like a dentist. There’s always fresh coffee on the go and we take time to get to know everyone and their likes and dislikes.

We have bluetooth headphones so you can listen to your music, squishy balls to hold, hands to hold (our nurses are brilliant at this) and air conditioning that stops you getting all hot and bothered.

So, what are you waiting for? Give us a call on 01323 325397 and book in for a free coffee and a chat and start your journey today!

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Does My Child Need Surgery To Treat TMJ?

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Children affected by temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) can experience pain and discomfort when eating and yawning. You may have heard about TMJ surgery, but this is not the only treatment option.

– There are several non-invasive TMJ treatments available.

– Mouthguards can help correct or manage TMJ if teeth grinding is the cause.

– Orthodontics may help if a bad bite is the cause.

– Surgery is often seen as a last-resort solution.

Call the Dental Barn in Hailsham East Sussex on 01323 325397  for further information or to make an appointment with one of our dentists or dental hygienists.

 

teeth, health, smile, dentist,dentalhealth, oralhealth

Teeth Grinding and Sleep Apnea

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People with sleep apnea stop breathing frequently during the night. Often a dentist is the first professional to spot this problem.

– Teeth grinding and enamel erosion, due to a dry mouth, may indicate sleep apnea.

– A dentist can refer you to the appropriate person for diagnosis.

– Some treatments include oral sleep appliances which help keep the airway open.

A dentist can play an important role in the treatment of sleep apnea.

Call The Dental Barn in Hailsham East Sussex on 01323 325397  for further information or to make an appointment with one of our dentists or dental hygienists.

Should My Child Use Mouthwash?

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teeth, health, smile, dentist,dentalhealth, oralhealthChildren over the age of six can use mouthwash if an adult supervises them.

Top tips:

– Explain that mouthwash is not a drink and must be spat out.

– Mouthwash helps loosen food debris, so is great for children with braces.

– A dentist can recommend a children’s mouthwash which is not alcohol based.

Mouthwash isn’t a substitute for brushing teeth but it can help prevent plaque and cavities.

“Your dentist can make recommendations for when to begin using mouthwash and may recommend a specific kind that your child may benefit from based on their unique smile.”

Article:

https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/should-children-use-mouthwash-what-kind-is-best/

 

What Are These White Spots In My Mouth?

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teeth, health, smile, dentist,dentalhealth, oralhealthWhile most white spots in the mouth are harmless, others are serious. For example, a condition known as leukoplakia might require a biopsy in order to check for precancerous cells. Even if you have healthy teeth, this is an important step to take.

Some primary reasons are outlined below:

– A small percentage of leukoplakia cases are associated with precancerous lesions.

– A biopsy performed by your dentist will provide reliable results.

– Even white patches that are painless may indicate a different underlying condition.

“Sometimes a doctor may take a small sample of tissue from oral lesions to diagnose…cells associated with leukoplakia.”

More details are found at this link:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321454.php

 

teeth, health, smile, dentist,dentalhealth, oralhealth

Should You Have Your Wisdom Teeth Extracted?

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Wisdom teeth are often painful when they emerge, which leads to getting them extracted. Here are reasons why you should not fear having your painful wisdom teeth removed.

Summary:

– Our ancestors needed these teeth to chew tough meat and roots. Wisdom teeth aren’t necessary for modern soft foods.

– Humans have evolved to having smaller jaws and our mouths don’t have enough space for wisdom teeth.

– Your dentist will most likely perform  x-ray to reveal where your wisdom tooth is and if it is impacted.

Our ancestors might have needed wisdom teeth for meat and roots, but we don’t.

Read more here:

https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/do-we-need-our-wisdom-teeth/

 

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Understanding The Bad Taste In Your Mouth

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Bad taste in the mouth is a condition commonly caused by respiratory issues, bad diet, smoking, drinking and medications. But if bad taste persists, you should see your dentist or doctor.

Main points:

– You might be at risk of oral diseases like gingivitis (gum disease), abscesses and oral cancer.

– Bad taste can also indicate neurological issues, Hepatitis B, hormones during pregnancy and menopause, cancer therapy and excessive chemical exposure.

– For treatment, brush your teeth regularly, quit smoking and alcohol, minimise sugary and acidic foods, and visit your doctor.

Also, drink enough water.

Read more here:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321438.php

teeth, health, smile, dentist,dentalhealth, oralhealth

Guide To Brushing Teeth Without Eroding Enamel

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Although brushing your teeth is good for your health, overdoing it will damage your teeth and fade your smile. It is possible to brush twice and floss once daily and still get tooth decay. Here is a guide on brushing your teeth without causing damage.

Main takeaways:

– Always use a soft-bristled or an electric toothbrush to clean your teeth.

– Brush twice per day, with each session lasting up to 2 minutes.

– Avoid brushing within thirty minutes of finishing a meal.

Schedule regular sessions with your dentist for assessment

Find out more here:

https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/am-i-brushing-my-teeth-too-hard-what-are-the-signs/

 

teeth, health, smile, dentist,dentalhealth, oralhealth

Does Your Toothpaste Live Up to Its Claims?

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Unless they ask a dentist for a recommendation, most people make their choice of toothpaste based on what the product claims it does best.

Recent years has seen a growth in toothpastes promising to protect enamel due to a increased in enamel erosion and dentin hypersensitivity. It sounds logical but recent studies have shown that the promises being made to your teeth are far from being kept.

To prevent enamel erosion and hypersensitivity:

– Ask your dentist about an appropriate toothpaste

– Cut sugary and acidic foods and drinks from your diet as they harm tooth enamel

– Don’t brush too aggressively as that will also harm enamel.

“Dental erosion is multifactorial. It has to do with brushing, and above all, with diet.”

Read more about the studies and the results here https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/03/180313152118.htm