January 2014 - West Seneca Dentist | Embury Family Dentistry

Hi,

I’m pretty sure that my teeth are the reason I can’t get a sales job. My resume isn’t the problem, of that I’m sure. And I’m great at sales; I can sell snow to a… well, you know. The only thing I have that could be holding me back is my crooked smile. There’s a new job I want to go after but not looking like this. I want a dentist to fix my smile once and for all. What kind of dentist should I be looking for to begin this process? Thanks.

Mitch, Buffalo, NY

Mitch,

You need a cosmetic dentist.

The first thing I would do is do a little bit of research. It’s best to have many options available to you so you can contrast and compare dentists before undergoing any cosmetic work. For example, if you live in Buffalo, NY, I would google “best cosmetic dentists in Buffalo New York.” But a word of caution–this is where things get tricky.

Any dentist can say they are a cosmetic dentist because cosmetic dentistry is not a recognized specialty. However, you can figure out who is and who isn’t be understanding two simple things. A true cosmetic dentist has had extensive training beyond dental school. He or she also belongs to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). If they belong to the AACD, this means the dentist has undergone rigorous examinations to become a member.

Once you’ve found an accredited cosmetic dentist, you need to look at his or her previous work. Cosmetic dentistry requires one to have an eye for the aesthetic and artistic skills — not everyone has it. It’s perfectly fine to ask if you can take a look at a book of smiles the dentist has transformed for others before you hire the dentist to transform yours.

There are many ways you can fix a crooked smile and the best dentist will listen to what you want and give you the greatest results possible. A great dentist will make your health a priority above performing any cosmetic procedure. And he or she will not only take into account how good your new smile looks, but how well it functions too.

If you do your research, you should have no problem finding the best dentist to take care of your dental needs. Having cosmetic work done is a big deal–you shouldn’t enter into anything permanent lightly. Look for a dentist that has the talent, skills and education you need and you should get that new sales job in no time.

This blog is sponsored by Buffalo dentist Warren M. Krutchick, DDS.

Hi,

Because of my fear of the dentist, I’ve neglected my teeth over the years and now I need to have all my teeth removed and have dentures put in. My dental anxiety hasn’t gone away. Can I have my teeth extracted in the hospital under general anesthesia so I don’t have to feel a thing?

Thanks,

Lydia E., Chicago, IL

Lydia,

Dental anxiety is a real issue that millions of Americans deal with so please don’t feel alone.

Before I answer your question, Lydia, I’d first like to know: how do you know you need to have dentures or all of your teeth removed? Have you seen an actual dentist yet? I don’t know how old you are or your situation, but it seems there are a few options you may be able to explore before having any procedure done.

For example, maybe dental implants are an option. An actual titanium root form is implanted into your jawbone and a crown is placed over it. Dental implants essentially mimic your natural teeth, meaning you can chew and talk normally without fear of them slipping out. And because they are permanent they also help prevent bone loss that happens when teeth are removed.

But as to your question: Yes, you can have it done. However, it’s a very expensive option. Instead, you can have your procedure done just as safely and for a lot less money right in the dentist’s office. A sedation dentist is certified and trained to administer oral sedation. With oral sedation, you are conscious but are essentially in a deep sleep and completely unaware of your surroundings during your extraction procedure. This method is safer than anesthesia. Also, you will not experience any pain. Most of all, you will not remember the procedure at all.

You also have the choice of IV sedation. This method of sedation is less expensive than general anesthesia although more expensive than oral sedation. With this option, you will still feel relaxed and calm, be conscious but in a sleepy state, and a huge bonus is that the recovery time is quicker than either oral sedation or general anesthesia. It also suppresses a strong gag reflex, if you have one.

Remember, you are not alone in your dental anxiety. And finding the right dentist, one who “caters to cowards” can help you overcome it. Sedation dentistry does wonders for people with fear of the dentist. So before you make a decision, please find a good sedation dentist to help you decide on the best course of action to take with your dental health.

This blog is sponsored by Buffalo dentist Warren M. Krutchick, DDS.

My crooked smile cost me a job

Teeth Extractions under Anesthesia

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