Dental anxiety is a common issue that affects many people, preventing them from seeking necessary dental care. At Abidin and Cao, DDS, located in Westerville, OH, Dr. Abidin and Dr. Cao are committed to understanding and addressing the root causes of dental anxiety. We always want to help our patients feel more comfortable and secure during their visits. What Causes Dental Anxiety? There are several factors that can contribute to dental anxiety: Past Traumatic Experiences: Negative experiences during previous dental visits can lead to lasting fear. Painful procedures or perceived neglect by ..read more

Replacing missing teeth with a restoration like a dental bridge can help prevent other teeth from shifting to fill in the space. This can preserve your smile’s alignment and reduce your risk of malnutrition, poor self-esteem, and dental disease. There are several types of dental bridges that can be appropriate for a variety of situations. Traditional Bridge A traditional dental bridge usually consists of an artificial tooth sandwiched between a dental crown on either side. They are made of ceramic or porcelain and require a small amount of enamel removal from the surrounding teeth to make roo ..read more

Keeping your smile healthy and radiant requires more than just brushing and flossing at home. Twice a year, everyone should schedule a dental checkup and professional cleaning to maintain optimal oral health. Here’s what you can expect during these routine dentist visits. Professional Dental Cleaning Regular checkups typically begin with a thorough professional cleaning performed by your dental hygienist. Using specialized tools, they remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth, including areas that are challenging to reach with regular brushing. They also will evaluate your gum health w ..read more

The human body is a fascinating machine composed of many different yet interconnected systems, each one functioning in balance with the others. For example, you may be surprised to learn how your gut health can affect your oral health. Let’s explore the relationship between the gut and the mouth. What Is a Microbiome? The term “microbiome” refers to the complex community of microorganisms—such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and more—that inhabit various parts of our bodies. The oral microbiome and the gut microbiome exist on either end of the digestive system, each playing a distinct role in yo ..read more

Parenting teens is no easy feat – from juggling heavy homework loads to navigating busy after-school schedules to finding harmony on clothing and music choices. While we can’t solve those challenges, we believe that a healthy smile is something both you and your teenager can get behind. Good oral hygiene habits contribute to a confident smile, especially as appearance takes center stage for teens. Some may need gentle reminders to stick to regular brushing and dental care, and that’s where Abidin and Cao DDS can lend a helping hand. We’re here to assist you and your teen with common dental co ..read more

Sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose are undoubtedly unpleasant experiences. If you’re unlucky enough to experience these allergy symptoms, you might be curious about how they could affect your dental health. In this blog, we’ll explore the potential connections and offer insights to help you manage your dental health while dealing with allergies. What are Allergies? Allergies are the body’s exaggerated response to substances it perceives as threats. There are many types of allergens. However, common allergens include pollen, dust, pet dander, perfumes, and chemicals. When exposed to allerg ..read more

Everyone’s smile is unique, but dentists see common dental problems over and over again. Thankfully, there are ways to prevent these issues and maintain excellent oral health! Tooth Sensitivity You have sensitive nerves inside your teeth, but they’re protected by a hard layer called enamel. When your enamel thins, you may feel increased sensitivity. Starches, sugars, and acids are the main triggers, but you can also wear down your teeth by brushing too hard. To prevent sensitivity, practice good oral hygiene, limit acidic and sugary foods and beverages, and visit the dentist for regular clean ..read more

During summer, with cookouts and poolside relaxation, we often enjoy snacks and various foods throughout the day. While indulging in summer treats is enjoyable, it’s smart to keep dental health in mind. Fortunately, a range of mouthwatering summer foods not only tantalize our taste buds but also contribute to healthy teeth and gums. Crispy Fruits and Vegetables Summer offers an abundance of juicy fruits like watermelon, apples, and pears, as well as crisp vegetables such as cucumber and celery. Thanks to their high water content, these choices stimulate saliva production. This natural process ..read more

Sometimes a tooth extraction, such as wisdom teeth removal, is in a patient’s best interest. Dry socket is a possible discomfort that can occur post-extraction. A dry socket happens when the protective blood clot that forms in the socket is dislodged, leaving the bone and nerves exposed. What Causes Dry Socket? A tooth extraction leaves behind an empty socket and exposed nerve endings. Soon after the procedure, a blood clot should form to cover the area where the tooth once was. This aids in healing and helps protect your body from infection. If this clot becomes dislodged, the area is consid ..read more

Are chips, cracks, discoloration, or misalignment preventing you from showing off your smile? Our Westerville dental office offers several cosmetic treatments that can transform your smile. One treatment we often suggest is porcelain veneers. What Are Porcelain Veneers? Porcelain veneers are thin shells of ceramic material that are placed onto the front surface of the teeth to improve their appearance and make your smile more uniform. They are custom-made and can address a variety of cosmetic issues, such as mildly crooked teeth, small gaps between teeth, severe discoloration, misshapen teeth ..read more