Twas the night before the dentist and all thru the house,
Everyone was brushing and flossing their mouths.
The toothbrushes were hung in the cabinet with care,
In hopes the germs wouldn’t grow on them there.
The children were excited but finally went to beds,
While visions of candy and gum danced in their heads.
And Mamma had a toothache on the top in the back,
I had just settled my brain with a little nightcap.
When just before dawn we awakened to chatter,
Pancakes for breakfast, the kids mixed the batter.
We ate in a hurry and got ready in a flash,
Out the door we went, all in a mad dash.
I set the GPS with directions to go,
Adjusting my speed to the traffic flow.
Just as our appointment time drew near,
Our South Tampa Smiles’ office appeared.
We were welcomed and politely asked to take our pick
Of our seats in the waiting room, though our wait time was quick.
Soon after we seated, a staff member came,
With a warm and friendly smile, she called us by name.
Now Dexter, now Amber, now Spencer and Kristen,
We each took a stand as we quietly listened.
She guided us back and down through the halls,
To chairs that reclined and had little suction straws.
X-rays were taken of all of our teeth
To check all the areas between and beneath.
The cleaning was pleasant; it went very fast
Next was the exam, which the dentist did last.
He checked each tooth and the appointment was done
But those that needed treatment made another one.
Our checkup was complete and the experience was polite.
Regular dental visits keeps our smiles shining bright!
Article: Twas The Night Before The Dentist
Contact South Tampa Smiles for your next dental appointment at (813) 289 – 0560.
Most people do not look forward to being in the dental chair. But for some, the anxiety can become so strong that it prevents them from going to the dentist entirely. This can result in problems even further than oral complications. Studies now link it to illnesses including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
It is important to gain control of your dental anxieties to ensure that you attend all of your appointments for your overall health. We have compiled our top five to calm the nervousness and get you through your appointments with ease.
Our top five tips to overcome dental anxiety include:
- Plan Ahead – Make your dental appointment on a day that is errand and appointment free if possible. You would want to avoid having an appointment Pick a time of day that will allow enough time that you will not be in a rush. Minimizing your stress level on the day of your dental appointment will help keep your anxiety down.
- Review Sedation Options – Discuss which options would be suitable for you including local anesthesia and if you would benefit from nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to make your visit more comfortable and relaxing.
- Avoid Caffeine & Sugar – Too much of either can leave you feeling more anxious and often jittery.
- Utilize Relaxation Techniques – Slow and deep breathing techniques are helpful before and during your appointment and can have a calming effect.
- Distractions – Listening to the music of your choice through headphones will keep your mind occupied and minimize the sounds from dental procedures that can be unpleasant for some.
We quite frequently have patients that are fearful and we take every step necessary to create a calm and pleasant atmosphere for each one of our patients. If you have additional questions about relaxation techniques and overcoming dental anxiety, please call South Tampa Smiles at (813) 289 – 0560. Our friendly staff is ready to help.
