Are you afraid of the dentist? Dental anxiety is a common issue for many people in Rockville. If anxiety is preventing you from going to the dentist, there are some things you can do to help cope with your fear. Here are some ways to get the care you need while being considerate of your anxiety.
What is Dental Anxiety?
Do you experience fear, anxiety, or stress in a dental setting? You may have dental anxiety. Needles, drills, or the dental setting can trigger anxiety for many people. However, if dental anxiety is severe, some people may avoid going to the dentist all together. This is classified as a dental phobia.
Signs and Symptoms
People with dental anxiety may experience the following.
- Racing heart
- Sweating
- Fainting
- Low blood pressure
- Visible distress
- Crying
- Withdrawal or using humor/aggression to mask anxiety.
While it is understandable to avoid the things that make us afraid, routine dental care is crucial to your oral health.
What Causes Dental Anxiety and Phobia?
There are many reasons why people may experience dental anxiety in Rockville. This includes:
- A traumatic dental experience or other healthcare experience
- Prior trauma to the neck or head
- Other traumatic experiences include abuse.
- General anxiety, depression, or PTSD
- Trust issues
- Fear of loss of control
- Anxiety associated with other conditions like agoraphobia, claustrophobia, or obsessive compulsive disorder.
Anyone can have dental anxiety. Children who have had a bad dental experience can often overcome their fear through proper management of the situation and future support in dental visits. Adults unfortunately tend to remain anxious throughout life.
However, finding a dentist who is sympathetic and understanding of your situation can help you cope with going to the dentist.
Coping with Dental Anxiety in Rockville
There are many ways to cope and manage dental anxiety. An open discussion with your dentist about your triggers can help your provider create a management plan with you. This may include things like:
- Meditation
- Deep breathing
- Weighted blankets
- Distraction like music
- Happy gas
- Oral anxiety medication
- Conscious sedation (IV)
- General anesthesia (for severe cases)
If you are looking for a dentist that is sympathetic and understanding of your dental anxiety, please contact Hackley DDS.
What are cavities and how can we prevent them? Essentially, cavities are holes in the enamel of your tooth. They can cause pain and discomfort, and if left untreated, lead to more decay. Here are some simple things you can do to prevent cavities.
What is a cavity?
A cavity is a hole in your tooth. In the early stages, it may look like a white spot but over time it will begin to look brow or black. They can be big or small. While they can be in many places, they often form on the tops of your teeth, where you bite and in between teeth, where food gets stuck.
Cavities cause pain, sensitivity, infections, and can even cause you to lose your teeth. The best way to keep your teeth healthy is to prevent cavities.
What causes cavities?
During the day, the bacteria in our mouth feed off of the foods we eat. Anytime we eat or drink sugar, the bacteria eat the sugar and turn it into acid. This acid stays on our teeth and essentially attacks the outer surface.
Over time, this acid wears down our teeth, creating a cavity. If the cavity isn’t fixed, the bacteria get inside it and travel from the outside of the tooth into the dentin and then the pulp, creating an infection.
Dental infections can be very serious. If you notice redness, pain and swelling in your face or mouth you should seek care.
Higher Risks for Cavities
Anyone can get cavities, but you may be at a higher risk if you:
- Snack between meals
- Have cracked or chipped teeth
- Eat sugar foods or drinks
- Take medications that cause dry mouth
- Have a personal and/or family history of cavities
- Have had head or neck radiation therapy
How to Prevent Cavities
The best ways to prevent cavities are to maintain good oral health and hygiene habits. This includes:
- Drink plenty of water
- Brush with fluoride toothpaste 2 times a day
- Floss
- Limit sweet snacks between meals
- Limit sugary foods and drinks like candies and soda.
- Don’t sip or snack on sugary things all day. If you are going to eat/drink them, do so at mealtimes and brush after.
- Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams.
- Sealants can be placed on the back teeth to help protect them from bacteria causing cavities in hard-to-reach grooves.
For more help with your oral health, please visit Hackley DDS. Let us take care of your teeth and keep your smile healthy and beautiful!
When do children lose their baby teeth?
Most children start to lose baby teeth around age 6, however some baby teeth remain present until age 12. Baby teeth are important and should be cared for in the same way as adult teeth.
Is thumb sucking/pacifier really bad for teeth?
Thumb sucking and pacifiers are okay up to a certain age. These habits aren’t a cause for concern in infants and young toddlers.
When do I need to take away the pacifier?
It’s best for kids to stop the habit by the time they’re 3 years old. Prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use can affect your child’s teeth, jaw, and bite alignment.
At what age should a child start brushing?
Parents should start brushing when the first tooth appears. Use a rice-sized dab of fluoride toothpaste. At age 3, move to a pea sized amount of tooth paste.
[Related: Baby’s First Dental Visit]
When can kids brush by themselves?
This is a tricky question. Parents need to supervise brushing until age 6 at least. They shouldn’t brush alone until they’re coordinated enough to brush thoroughly. We usually say if they can reliably tie their shoes, they can brush alone and have a grown up “check brush.”
How often should kids brush?
Twice a day, just like adults. They should also be flossing.
Are cavities common in kids?
Yes. Tooth decay is the most common illness in children. It’s five times more common in children than asthma! But it’s also one of the most preventable diseases.
Is it necessary to fill cavities in baby teeth?
Yes! Many people think it’s unnecessary because these teeth will fall out. However, baby teeth are important for the development of adult teeth and untreated cavities can lead to further dental disease.
Besides brushing, how can I prevent cavities?
- Only offer clean pacifiers. Don’t dip them in sugary drinks.
- Don’t lick a child’s spoon or pacifier to clean it. Sharing utensils also shares bacteria that cause cavities.
- Don’t put juice of soda in baby’s bottle.
- Never put a child to bed with a bottle of anything other than water- that means no milk either.
- Limit your kid’s intake of sugary foods, juices, soda, and sports drinks.
- Make sure your child’s teeth are brushed twice a day with an ADA accepted toothpaste.
Have more questions? Contact Hackley DDS to speak to a dentist!
If you need dental care but the budget is too tight, you may be wondering if dentists offer payment plans. The answer is most of them do. If you are struggling with the cost of dental care, you’re not alone. Over half of U.S. adults say they have skipped or delayed dental care due to the cost. Fortunately, there are alternatives. Let’s talk about them.
What are dental payment plans?
Dental payment plans are financial options for dental work. Instead of paying the cost of dental care upfront, patients can make payments over time. Depending on your dentist, the payment plans available may differ.
Where can you get a dental payment plan?
Your dentist office will provide dental payment plans. Typically, dentists offer these plans to help make care more affordable for all patients. However, not all dentists offer payment plans. Some only accept insurance or full payment upfront.
Cost of Dental Treatment without Insurance
An estimated 76.5 million adults don’t have dental insurance. So, let’s look at some of the average costs of dental work when paying out of pocket.
- Oral exam and cleaning: up to $200
- Oral X-rays: $300 on up
- Root canal: up to $2,700
- Tooth extraction: between $75 and $4,000, depending on damage and need for anesthesia.
- Dental implants: between $1,750 and $8,270 a tooth
- Braces: $5,500 on up to $10,000
- Dentures: $1400 to $2800
Things to Consider
There are a few things to consider before you commit to a dental payment plan. First, if you struggle with poor credit, you may not be able to secure a payment plan. Some companies do waive credit checks though. Additionally, you need to consider interest rates, though some dental plans come with a 0% interest rate to sweeten the offer. Finally, make sure you can handle the ongoing payments.
Dental Payment Plan at Hackley DDS
Our team is proud to offer Sunbit as a monthly payment option at ROCHELLE E HACKLEY DDS ,LLC. Sunbit approves 85% of patients with no hard credit check and no late fees. Click here to see how much you are pre-qualified for! To schedule an appointment, please contact us today.
Are you looking for a great dental spa in Bethesda? When it comes to enhancing your smile and revitalizing your skin, the journey should be as blissful as the destination. Dental spas have emerged as a haven of tranquility, where state-of-the-art dental treatments and rejuvenating dermal services come together to offer patients a unique and luxurious experience. In fact, the American Academy of Facial Aesthetics routinely trains dentists in the best non-surgical and non-invasive facial injectable techniques. If you’ve been contemplating cosmetic and dermal procedures, here’s why you should consider visiting our dental spa in Bethesda to achieve your aesthetic goals.
Holistic Approach to Wellness
Dental spas embrace a holistic approach to patient care, recognizing that oral health, facial aesthetics, and overall well-being are interconnected. Beyond traditional dental treatments, our spa-like facilities provide a range of cosmetic and dermal services, such as teeth whitening, veneers, Botox, dermal fillers, and more. By addressing both dental and aesthetic needs in one serene environment, patients can enjoy comprehensive care that leaves them feeling rejuvenated inside and out.
Relaxing and Serene Environment
Unlike conventional dental clinics, our dental spa is designed to evoke a sense of calm and tranquility. Soft lighting, soothing music, and inviting decor create a serene atmosphere that helps patients feel at ease. This ambiance is particularly beneficial for individuals who may experience dental anxiety or nervousness about cosmetic procedures. With a dental spa, you can expect a peaceful and stress-free experience from the moment you step through the door.
Expertise and Skill of Trained Professionals
We are staffed with highly skilled and trained professionals who specialize in both dental and dermal procedures. These experts are well-versed in the latest cosmetic techniques and use cutting-edge technology to ensure optimal results. Whether you’re seeking a smile makeover or dermal rejuvenation, you can have peace of mind knowing that your treatments are being performed by experienced professionals who prioritize your comfort and satisfaction.
Comprehensive Range of Services 
At our Bethesda office, you can access a comprehensive range of services tailored to your unique needs and desires. From dental cleanings, teeth straightening, and dental implants to non-surgical facelifts, skin resurfacing, and facial rejuvenation – the options are vast. This integrated approach allows you to address multiple concerns and achieve your aesthetic goals efficiently and effectively.
Convenience
Choosing a dental spa for your cosmetic and dermal needs can save you time and effort. Instead of scheduling appointments at separate facilities for dental and aesthetic treatments, you can consolidate your visits to a dental spa, streamlining your care and ensuring a seamless experience.
Best Dental Spa in Bethesda
Our Bethesda dental spa offers the perfect fusion of oral health, cosmetic enhancements, and rejuvenating dermal services. If you’re seeking a calming and all-encompassing approach to achieving a radiant smile and youthful skin, look no further than Rochelle Hackley DDS Dental Spa. Embrace the oasis of relaxation and expertise, and embark on a journey of transformation. We will leave you feeling refreshed, confident, and ready to conquer the world with your newfound radiance.
When should you visit a Rockville cosmetic dentist? Cosmetic dentistry is a dynamic and transformative field within dentistry that focuses on enhancing the appearance of a person’s smile. Far beyond traditional dental care, cosmetic dentistry employs a range of specialized treatments and procedures to correct dental imperfections, improve the color, shape, size, and alignment of teeth, and create a confident and radiant smile.
A Rockville Cosmetic Dentist Can Remove Stains and Brighten Your Smile
One of the most common procedures a cosmetic dentist will perform is in-office teeth whitening. Over time, various factors such as consumption of colored foods and beverages, tobacco use, aging, and poor oral hygiene can cause teeth to become stained or discolored. Teeth whitening procedures utilize different techniques to remove these stains and discolorations, resulting in a brighter and more attractive smile. The results of this procedure can usually last for a year or more as long as the patient is practicing good oral hygiene.
Restore the Size, Shape, and Function of Damaged Teeth
Poor oral hygiene, trauma to the face, grinding teeth at night, and other various situations can cause damage to the teeth. Fortunately, there are effective cosmetic dental procedures that can help. These include dental veneers, crowns, fillings, teeth replacement and more.
For damaged or chipped teeth, dental bonding is a common cosmetic procedure where a tooth-colored resin material is applied and shaped to restore the tooth’s original form. Dental veneers, thin porcelain shells, are another option to cover and correct chipped or damaged teeth, providing a natural-looking and durable solution
In cases where a tooth is severely damaged or decayed, dental crowns can be employed to completely cover the affected tooth, restoring its size, shape, and function while providing protection and strength. Dental implants are also utilized to replace missing teeth, restoring both function and appearance by integrating a prosthetic tooth into the jawbone.
Cosmetic Dentistry Can Help Improve the Alignment of Teeth 
Cosmetic dentistry offers several effective methods to improve the alignment of teeth. This helps individuals achieve a straighter and more harmonious smile. These orthodontic devices apply gentle pressure on the teeth to gradually shift them into their desired positions. Providers often recommend braces and Invisalign for individuals with various alignment issues like crowded teeth, gaps, and malocclusions (misaligned bites). This type of procedure can help improve a patient’s smile and confidence.
Lengthen Teeth That are Too Short
Sometimes, people have naturally short teeth. Other times, grinding can cause weak or short teeth. There are several different procedures that can treat the issue including dental veneers and crowns. These procedures can not only help strengthen overall oral health but it can also make a patient’s smile more appeasing.
Best Rockville Cosmetic Dentist Office
Dental, Spa, and Cosmetic Surgery has a compassionate and knowledgeable team dedicated to providing the best dental care for you. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
Root canals have long been surrounded by myths and misconceptions, often giving dental patients anxiety and fear. However, there’s no need to fret! In the capable hands of a root canal specialist in Rockville, you have nothing to worry about. These dental professionals possess the knowledge, experience, and expertise to save your smile and alleviate your dental woes.
What is a Root Canal Specialist?
A root canal specialist is a dental professional who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and conditions that affect the tooth pulp and the surrounding tissues of the teeth. Much like the roots of a tree, the root of the tooth is the part that is below your gums and holds your tooth in place. While general dentists are trained in a wide range of dental procedures, root canal specialists undergo additional years of advanced education and clinical training specifically focused on endodontics. A root canal specialist is going to focus on relieving any tooth and mouth pain while also trying to save your natural tooth whenever they can.
What Does a Root Canal Specialist Do?
Root canal specialists are highly skilled in performing root canal therapy. This procedure involves removing the infected or damaged dental pulp from the inner part of the tooth, known as the root canal, and sealing it to prevent further infection. They are experts in utilizing advanced techniques and specialized tools to ensure the efficient and effective treatment of root canal infections.
What Kind of Training Does a Root Canal Specialist Receive?
Dental school takes about four years to complete. Once a dentist finishes school, a root canal specialist receives at least two more years of focused dental training. During this time, they study various techniques to diagnose and treat tooth pain that affects tissues and roots inside your teeth.
Common Reasons to See a Root Canal Specialist Rockville Maryland 
Because Root Canal Specialists focus mainly on fixing damaged tooth pulp or roots, the following are common causes for these issues:
- Tooth decay: this destruction of a tooth is caused by poor teeth and gum care. You may need to see a root canal specialist if a cavity that goes untreated damages your tooth’s root tissue. Tooth decay can cause inflammation (pulpitis), infection in the pulp tissue, or even death (necrosis).
- Tooth injuries: Trauma affecting your tooth (such as from a hard fall or accident).
- Tooth abscess: An abscess happens when bacteria gets inside your tooth or gums and causes a buildup of pus.
- Cracked tooth: Damage to your tooth to the point that there is an opening for bacteria to get inside.
What Kind of Procedures Does a Root Canal Specialist Do?
Root canal specialist can perform a variety of procedures including:
- Root canal: This procedure will remove damaged or infected tooth pulp and then reseals the tooth to prevent infection.
- Endodontic retreatment: If a root canal didn’t heal properly, this procedure removes and replaces materials.
- Endodontic surgery: This is any specialized surgery, such as apicoectomy (the removal of the end, or tip, of a tooth’s root).
- Emergency dental surgery: This procedure could extend from repairing difficult dental injuries to severe tooth infections.
- Tooth extraction (removal) surgery: Pulling a tooth because there’s too much tissue damage for a provider to save it.
- Dental implant surgery: Surgical placement of a dental implant. A specialist can use an implant to restore the function of your teeth and repair the appearance after you’ve had or have a tooth removed.
Root canal specialists are still dentists. So, they can perform the same common procedures such as cleanings, whitenings, crowns, and veneers.
When Should You Call a Root Canal Specialist?
It is important to call a dental provider you trust any time you have tooth pain that doesn’t go away or gets worse. Waiting could cause further damage and put you at higher risk of not being able to save the natural tooth.
You may need a root canal specialist if you have
- Tooth pain that doesn’t go away
- Unexplained mouth or jaw pain
- Sensitivity to cold, hot or sweet foods
- The area around the affected tooth and gums is inflamed
Seek immediate treatment if you have an abscess, you’ve had a tooth injury or there are signs of infection like fever, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or redness or swelling in your mouth.
Root Canal Specialists in Rockville Maryland
Dental, Spa, and Cosmetic Surgery has a compassionate and knowledgeable team dedicated to providing the best dental care for you. If you are experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, contact us today to schedule your consultation!
Are you familiar with cosmetic dentistry Rockville? If not, this branch of dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your smile. Keep reading to learn whether it’s right for you.
What Is It?
Essentially, cosmetic dentistry corrects any stains, chips, or crookedness in your teeth. The procedures include anything from teeth whitening to dental bonding and veneers.
Who Needs Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry Rockville has helped hundreds of people feel confident about their smiles. Specifically, it’s a great option for people with:
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Staining or tooth discoloration
- Misshapen or misaligned teeth
- Gaps or spaces between their teeth
Treatment Examples 
Through a variety of treatments, cosmetic dentistry creates a balanced, symmetrical, and aesthetically pleasing smile.
- Teeth whitening. This procedure lightens stains caused by dark-colored foods and drinks.
- Dental bonding. In a dental bonding procedure, the dentist applies tooth-colored resin to cover and conceal cracks, discoloration, and craze lines.
- Porcelain veneers. These thin, strong shells adhere to the fronts of your teeth to conceal a wide range of cosmetic flaws.
- Tooth and gum contouring. These procedures alter the shape of your teeth and gums.
Cosmetic Dentistry Benefits
Wondering why people choose to undergo cosmetic dentistry? Because there are countless advantages. Most of our patients are looking to enhance their smiles, brighten dull or stained teeth, improve their tooth shape, conceal cracks, bring balance to their smiles, and boost their self-confidence.
Top Cosmetic Dentistry Rockville, Maryland
Interested in booking an appointment for cosmetic dentistry Rockville? As Maryland’s leading provider of both general and cosmetic dentistry, Hackley DDS is here for you. Our qualified professionals have helped hundreds of patients redesign their smiles and boost their self-confidence. Now, we’d love to do the same for you.
Stop by our office or contact our team, and we’ll walk you through our services and answer any questions you might have.
Are you or a loved one afraid of the dentist? If so, you’re not alone. About 36% of people fear dental treatment. Therefore, many dentists adopt the pampering amenities and services of day spas to ease patient anxiety. Today’s blog will tell you everything you need to know about finding a dental spa in Bethesda.
Services Offered 
Not every dental spa Bethesda is the same. That being said, the types of services available to you are entirely dependent on your chosen practice. Here at Hackley DDS, we provide our customers with a wide range of services and perks:
- Skin rejuvenation like chemical peels, HydraFacials, laser hair removal, Viora skin rejuvenation, micro-needling, and more.
- Cosmetic procedures like veneers, metal-free restorations, crowns, bonding, teeth whitening, and bite correction.
- Sedation options to comfort our patients during their time in our office.
Benefits of Dental Spa Dentistry
Dental spas do a tremendous job of alleviating patient fear. And their stress-reduction techniques are especially beneficial for patients with anxiety, heart conditions, or dentophobia (fear of dentists). Dental spas also encourage reluctant patients to come in for treatment. And after they get people in the door, many dental professionals report that relaxed patients pose less risk of injury than their anxious or fearful counterparts.
Best Dental Spa Bethesda
Hackley DDS is the best dental spa Bethesda. As your one-stop shop for both dental and spa needs, our qualified team is dedicated to delivering top-quality oral healthcare for individuals and their families.
To summarize, Dr. Hackley and her team specialize in dental implants, sleep apnea appliances, conscious sedation dentistry, Invisalign, and more. And our state-of-the-art dental spa services relax, rejuvenate, and transform our patients into the very best versions of themselves. If you’re interested in learning how we can serve you, contact our team today.
Are you on the hunt for the best family dentist Rockville, Maryland? Dr. Hackley and her team have the knowledge and expertise to treat every member of your family. Keep reading to learn why we’re the best option for you:
Benefits of Family Dentistry
From pediatric dentistry to denture work, our team can handle it all. Here are some benefits of working with the best family dentist Rockville, Maryland:
It’s Convenient and Easy 
Scheduling individual dental appointments for every family member can be stressful (and time-consuming). But when you visit a family dentist, you’re able to schedule a single appointment for your entire family.
You Form Lasting Relationships
Regular visits to a family dentist provide a unique opportunity to develop a lasting relationship with your practitioner. The result? Both you and your child will view your dentist as someone trustworthy.
You Avoid Dental Anxiety
Did you know that 9% of children have dental anxiety? However, developing a personal relationship with your dentist can ease some of those feelings.
You Prevent Tooth Decay and Gingivitis
Routine dental visits are key to keeping your family’s teeth cavity-free. Scheduling biannual appointments prevents tooth decay (which otherwise causes discomfort, pain, and potential tooth loss).
Your Family’s Smiles Improve
Do you struggle with yellowing or discolored teeth? Regular dental cleanings are the solution. Additionally, family dentists ensure that your oral health routine is in tip-top shop, and they can prevent problems from developing.
Who Is the Best Family Dentist Rockville, Maryland?
To summarize, Dr. Hackley and her team are the best family dentist Rockville, Maryland. With over 35+ years of experience and 20 years in business, we have earned our reputation for a caring and effective approach.
If you would like to see if we’re a good fit for your family, schedule an initial consultation today.
