Dental Fear is Real: Serdentity with Elizabeth Dooher-Anthony

I'm thrilled to have Elizabeth Dooher-Anthony, also known as Beth, joining us today. Beth is a dental hygienist, a myofunctional therapist, and an even talented comedian. She's here to share her unique insights on a topic that's so important, yet often overlooked - dental fear and anxiety. Through her own unexpected journey into the world of dentistry, Beth has developed a deep understanding of the trauma and PTSD-like responses that many patients experience in the dental chair. She's going to shed light on why this happens and what dental professionals can do to create a more compassionate, patient-centered experience. We'll also explore the fascinating connections between oral health, breathing, and overall systemic wellness. Key Takeaways -Dental fear and anxiety are real and often stem from trauma and PTSD-like responses, particularly related to the inability to breathe during dental procedures. -Dental professionals need to be trained to observe patient behaviors and body language to identify signs of airway issues and anxiety, rather than reacting negatively to "problem patients." -Simple breathing exercises and a more compassionate, trauma-informed approach can go a long way in helping anxious patients feel more at ease in the dental chair. -There is a strong connection between oral health, breathing, and overall systemic health, including links to conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. -Modern diets high in sugar and soft, processed foods contribute to oral health issues and broader health problems by disrupting the body's pH balance and promoting inflammation. -“Patients need to be empowered to advocate for their needs and find dental professionals who prioritize a whole-person, collaborative approach to care. -Greater integration between dental and medical practices is needed to provide comprehensive, patient-centered healthcare that addresses the mouth-body connection.  Resources: Website: https://serdentity.com/Facebook/ Podcast: https://www.facebook.com/SerdentityEmail: [email protected] Book a consultation today:I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can.https://shereewertz.com/15-min