Navigating Dental Anxiety: Tips for a Stress-Free Visit

dental anxiety

Navigating Dental Anxiety: Tips for a Stress-Free Visit

Dental anxiety is a common issue that affects many people. The thought of sitting in the dentist’s chair can trigger fear and stress, making it easy to put off important dental visits. However, taking care of your oral health is crucial. Here are five effective strategies to help you navigate dental anxiety and ensure a stress-free visit.

1. Communicate with Dr. Esfandiari:

Open communication is key to alleviating anxiety. Before your appointment, take the time to discuss your fears with Dr. Esfandiari. He'll explain the procedures in detail, answer your questions, and address any specific concerns you might have. Knowing what to expect can significantly reduce your anxiety and help you feel more in control.

2. Practice Relaxation Techniques

Incorporating relaxation techniques into your routine can help calm your nerves before and during your visit. Consider trying deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness meditation. A few minutes of focused breathing or visualization can make a significant difference in your anxiety levels. Arriving at the office a bit early can give you time to practice these techniques and gather your thoughts.

3. Bring a Support Person: 

Having a friend or family member accompany you to your appointment can provide emotional support and comfort. They can help distract you during the procedure and offer reassurance. If you're feeling particularly anxious, ask your companion to engage you in conversation or bring along music or an audiobook to help take your mind off the treatment.

4. Explore Sedation Techniques:

If your anxiety is severe, consider discussing sedation options with Dr. Esfandiari. Many dental offices offer various forms of sedation, including nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedatives, or even IV sedation. These methods can help you relax during your procedure and ensure you have a more comfortable experience.  Dr. Esfandiari will work with you to determine the best option based on your needs.

5. Focus on the Benefits of Dental Care:

Remind yourself of the positive outcomes that come with regular dental visits. A healthy smile boosts your confidence and contributes to your overall well-being. Think about the long-term benefits of maintaining good oral health, such as preventing cavities and gum disease. Setting goals, such as improving your smile or reducing pain, can help motivate you to face your fears and prioritize your dental health.


Dental anxiety is manageable with the right strategies and support. By communicating openly, practicing relaxation techniques, bringing a companion, exploring sedation options, and focusing on the benefits of dental care, you can transform your dental visits from a source of stress into an opportunity for self-care. Remember, taking care of your teeth is an essential part of taking care of yourself. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist for additional support and guidance. Your smile deserves it!

Make an Appointment with Dr. Esfandiari 

If you haven't seen a Dentist in a while, don't worry. You can make an appointment to see Dr. Esfandiari and get back on track with your preventative dental health care. Call the Ventura office to make an appointment 805-647-6100 or click here to make an appointment online.

Take A Tour

We've launched a video for you to see what's inside our Ventura office. When choosing a dentist we know it's important to feel safe, comfortable and familiar with your surroundings.

5 Reasons Why You Need Root Canal Therapy

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5 Reasons Why You Need Root Canal Therapy

In the realm of dental care, root canal therapy often sparks feelings of apprehension and anxiety among patients. However, understanding the crucial reasons why this procedure is necessary can alleviate fears and emphasize its importance in maintaining oral health. Here are the top five reasons why dental patients may need root canal therapy.

1. Infection Control

One of the primary indications for root canal therapy is severe tooth pain caused by an infection deep within the tooth's pulp. This pain can be intense and persistent, often throbbing and exacerbated by hot or cold temperatures. By performing a root canal, dentists can remove the infected pulp, relieve the pain, and prevent the infection from spreading further.

2. Preservation of Your Natural Teeth

Losing a tooth not only affects your smile but also impacts your overall dental health and functionality. Root canal therapy allows dentists to save a severely infected tooth that would otherwise require extraction. Preserving natural teeth is crucial for maintaining proper chewing function and preventing adjacent teeth from shifting.

3. Prevention of Abscesses

Untreated dental infections can lead to the formation of abscesses, which are pockets of pus that develop around the tooth root. Abscesses can cause significant discomfort, swelling, and even systemic health issues if the infection spreads to other parts of the body. Root canal therapy removes the source of infection, preventing the formation of abscesses and minimizing the risk of further health complications.

4. Improved Oral Health

A tooth that has undergone root canal therapy can function normally without causing discomfort or pain. This procedure restores the tooth's structural integrity by cleaning out the infected pulp, disinfecting the root canal system, and sealing it to prevent re-infection. With proper care, such as regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, a treated tooth can last a lifetime.

5. Cosmetic Benefits

Beyond its functional benefits, root canal therapy can also contribute to the aesthetic appeal of your smile. By preserving natural teeth and avoiding extraction, patients can maintain a complete and symmetrical smile. Unlike tooth extraction followed by replacement options like implants or bridges, root canal therapy allows patients to retain their original teeth, which often look and feel more natural.


In conclusion, while root canal therapy may seem daunting, its benefits far outweigh the temporary discomfort associated with the procedure. It provides effective pain relief, preserves natural teeth, prevents infections from spreading, restores oral health and functionality, and enhances the cosmetic appearance of your smile. If you experience persistent tooth pain or suspect a dental infection, consulting with a qualified dentist can help determine if root canal therapy is the appropriate treatment to safeguard your dental health and well-being.

Make an Appointment with Dr. Esfandiari 

If you haven't seen a Dentist in a while, don't worry. You can make an appointment to see Dr. Esfandiari and get back on track with your preventative dental health care. Call the Ventura office to make an appointment 805-647-6100 or click here to make an appointment online.

Take A Tour

We've launched a video for you to see what's inside our Ventura office. When choosing a dentist we know it's important to feel safe, comfortable and familiar with your surroundings.

5 Tips for Establishing Healthy Dental Habits in Kids

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5 Tips for Establishing Healthy Dental Habits in Kids

As parents, we strive to instill good habits in our children from a young age, and dental health is no exception. Teaching your kids how to care for their teeth and gums early on sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. With that in mind, here are five essential tips for establishing healthy dental habits in kids:

1. Start Early

The journey to good oral health begins even before your child's first tooth emerges. Wipe your baby's gums with a clean, damp cloth after feeding to remove bacteria and prevent the buildup of plaque. Once teeth start to appear, transition to a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for infants and gently brush their teeth twice a day.

2. Lead by Example

Children learn by observing the behavior of those around them, so make sure to demonstrate good dental habits yourself. Brush your teeth alongside your child to show them the proper technique, and make it a fun and interactive experience. Let them pick out their toothbrush and toothpaste with colorful designs or their favorite characters to make brushing more exciting.

3. Make Brushing a Routine

Consistency is key when it comes to dental care. Establish a regular brushing routine by brushing your child's teeth at the same times each day, such as after breakfast and before bedtime. Incorporate flossing into their routine as soon as their teeth start to touch to remove food particles and prevent cavities between the teeth.

4. Limit Sugary Snacks and Drinks

Sugary snacks and beverages can contribute to tooth decay if consumed in excess. Encourage healthier snack options like fruits, vegetables, cheese, and nuts, and limit sugary treats to occasional indulgences. When your child does have sweets, encourage them to rinse their mouth with water afterward to help wash away sugar residue.

5. Schedule Regular Checkups

Routine dental visits are essential for maintaining good oral health and catching any issues early on. Schedule your child's first dental appointment by their first birthday, and continue to schedule checkups every six months thereafter. Regular cleanings and exams allow the dentist to monitor your child's dental development and address any concerns promptly. 

By following these tips and making dental care a priority in your child's life, you can help them develop healthy habits that will benefit them for years to come. Remember, consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key to instilling lifelong habits that promote a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Make an Appointment with Dr. Esfandiari 

If you haven't seen a Dentist in a while, don't worry. You can make an appointment to see Dr. Esfandiari and get back on track with your preventative dental health care. Call the Ventura office to make an appointment 805-647-6100 or click here to make an appointment online.

Take A Tour

We've launched a new video for you to see what's inside our Ventura office. When choosing a dentist we know it's important to feel safe, comfortable and familiar with your surroundings.

5 Simple Things You Can Do To Reduce Your Risk of Cavities

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Can You Reduce Your Risk of Cavities? 

Believe it or not, it is easy to reduce your risk of getting cavities despite what you may have heard. While some patients may be more prone to tooth decay, overall dental health contributes to reduction in cavities. It's easier than you think. Here's the Top 5 ways to reduce your risk of cavities.

1. Knowing Your Dental Risk

With regular examinations and discussion with Dr. Esfandiari you will know where you stand, which treatments you need and any changes you may need to make to improve your oral hygiene or diet. Knowing your risk level allows you to take a more proactive approach to improving your oral health.

2. Regular Brushing

Regular brushing is imperative to maintaining your overall dental health. With bacteria and plaque brushing your teeth is one of the most effective ways to cavity prevention. Be sure to brush after meals and more importantly, brush before bed. Brushing before bed is particularly important because bacteria linger on your teeth overnight and can allow enamel-damaging acid to form.

Using a soft brush is also important for your overall gum health. Additionally, Dr. Frank recommends a microbial mouthwash to clean away the bacteria after brushing.

3. No Sugary Drinks

Drinks like soda, juice and even some coffee drinks are high in sugar and directly linked to an increase in cavities.  Prolonged exposure to acidic coffee or tea - which often also contain sugar and milk - increase your risk for new cavities. If you do drink coffee or tea, try to limit yourself to 20 minutes or less. Using a straw also helps reduce exposure to the acidity of coffee or tea.  Drinking more water is also another easy thing you can do to reduce your risk of developing cavities.

4. Regular Brushing

Regular brushing is imperative to maintaining your overall dental health. With bacteria and plaque brushing your teeth is one of the most effective ways to cavity prevention. Be sure to brush after meals and more importantly, brush before bed. Brushing before bed is particularly important because bacteria linger on your teeth overnight and can allow enamel-damaging acid to form.

Using a soft brush is also important for your overall gum health. Additionally, Dr. Frank recommends a microbial mouthwash to clean away the bacteria after brushing.

5. Regular Flossing

Our teeth have five sides and all of them need to be cleaned on a regular basis. Even when we brush every day, we’re only cleaning 3 of those sides. Regular flossing ensures you’re cleaning all sides of your teeth.

Flossing before bed and after meals is ideal for maintaining your overall dental health.

Make an Appointment with Dr. Esfandiari 

If you haven't seen a Dentist in a while, don't worry. You can make an appointment to see Dr. Esfandiari and get back on track with your preventative dental health care. Call the Ventura office to make an appointment 805-647-6100 or click here to make an appointment online.

Take A Tour

We've launched a new video for you to see what's inside our Ventura office. When choosing a dentist we know it's important to feel safe, comfortable and familiar with your surroundings.

Why Is Preventative Care so Important?

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Why is Preventative Dental Care so important? 

Life is busy and many of us often forget to schedule regular dental visits but it's important to maintain routine check-ups because preventative care is cheaper, less painful and more effective.

What is it? 

Preventative care includes things like regular check-ups, cleanings, and fluoride treatments. These services help to remove plaque and tartar from teeth, prevent cavities, and keep gums healthy. Emergency dental care, on the other hand, is usually needed to treat problems that have already developed, such as a toothache, infection, or gum disease. These problems can be more expensive to treat, and often times, more painful.

In addition, preventative dental care can help to prevent more serious problems from developing down the road. For example, if a cavity is not treated, it can eventually lead to a toothache, infection, or even tooth loss. Emergency dental care can help to treat these problems, but it cannot prevent them from happening in the first place.

Benefits of Preventative Care

-It can help to prevent cavities and gum disease.
-It can help to keep your teeth clean and healthy.
-It can help to detect problems early, when they are easier to treat.
-It can help to reduce the need for expensive and painful emergency dental care.
-It can help to improve your overall health and well-being.

Make an Appointment with Dr. Esfandiari 

If you haven't seen a Dentist in a while, don't worry. You can make an appointment to see Dr. Esfandiari and get back on track with your preventative dental health care. Call the Ventura office to make an appointment 805-647-6100 or click here to make an appointment online.

Take A Tour

We've launched a new video for you to see what's inside our Ventura office. When choosing a dentist we know it's important to feel safe, comfortable and familiar with your surroundings.

10 Things You Don't Know About Your Toothbrush

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10 Things You Don't Know About Your Toothbrush

We use it daily, but how well do you know your toothbrush?

1. Yes, you should look for the ADA Seal when choosing a toothbrush.
The ADA Seal of Acceptance is the gold standard for toothbrush quality. It’s how you’ll know your toothbrush was evaluated to make sure bristles won’t fall out with normal use, the handle will stay strong and the toothbrush will help reduce your risk for cavities and gum disease.

2. The toothbrush is 5,000 years old. 
Ancient civilizations used a thin twig to remove food from teeth. Over time, toothbrushes evolved and made from bone and even bristles of hogs & boars. The modern-day nylon-bristled toothbrush we now know was invented in 1938. 

3. The first mass-produced toothbrush was invented in prison. 
In 1770, an Englishman named William Addis was jailed for inciting a riot. He saw fellow prisoners using a rag covered in soot or salt to clean their teeth. Addis saved an animal bone from dinner and received bristles from a guard. Accounts state he bore tiny holes into the bone, inserted the bristles and sealed them with glue. After his release, he modified his prototype & started Wisdom Toothbrushes, which still exists in the UK.

4.  Manual or powered? Your teeth don’t care.
Manual or powered toothbrush? It does not matter. You just need to brush twice a day for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste. Both types of toothbrush can effectively clean your teeth. 

5. There is no “correct” order for brushing and flossing.
Brushing before flossing, flossing before brushing - it doesn’t matter to your teeth, as long as you do both.

6. Toothbrushes like to be left out in the open.
If you store your toothbrush with other toothbrushes, make sure they are separated to prevent cross contamination. A moist environment such as a closed container is more conducive to the growth of unwanted bacteria than the open air.

7. Lifespan = 3-4 Months
Make sure to replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed. A worn toothbrush won’t do as good of a job cleaning your teeth. 

8. When it comes to choosing a brush, go soft.
Whether you use a manual or powered toothbrush you should choose a soft-bristled brush. Firm or even medium-strength bristles may cause damage to your gums and enamel. When brushing your teeth, don’t scrub vigorously—only brush hard enough to clean the film off your teeth.

9. Remember: 2 minutes, 2 times a day.
4 minutes a day goes a long way for your dental health. Put the time in each day to keep your smile healthy.

10. Sharing is caring, but not for toothbrushes.
Sharing a toothbrush can mean you’re also sharing germs and bacteria. This could be a particular concern if you have a cold or flu to spread, or you have a condition that leaves your immune system compromised. 

Contact Us 

Dr. Frank Esfandiari makes it easy to get back on track if it's been a while since you've seen the dentist. You can make an appointment online by clicking here, or call us at 805-647-6100.


Take A Tour

We've launched a new video for you to see what's inside our Ventura office. When choosing a dentist we know it's important to feel safe, comfortable and familiar with your surroundings.

Cold and Flu Season: 5 Ways to Care for Your Mouth When You’re Sick

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When you have a cold or the flu, taking care of your body is your top priority—and that includes your mouth. It’s important to take care of your dental health all year round, but especially when you’re sick.

Here are some simple ways to care for your dental health when you’re not feeling well: 

Practice Good Hygiene
When you’re sick, you know to cover your mouth when you cough and sneeze. Don’t forget to keep up your dental and toothbrush hygiene as well.

According to the CDC, the flu virus can live on moist surfaces for 72 hours. The number one rule is not to share your toothbrush anytime, but especially when you are sick.

You also probably don’t need to replace your toothbrush after you’ve been sick. Unless your immune system is severely compromised, the chances of reinfecting yourself are very low. But if you’re still in doubt, throw it out.

Choose Sugar-Free Cough Drops
Read the label before you pick up a bag at the drug store with an eye to avoid ingredients like fructose or corn syrup. Many cough drops contain sugar, and it is like sucking on candy. Sugar is a culprit when it comes to cavities. The longer you keep a sugary cough drop in your mouth, the more time cavity-causing bacteria has to feast on that sugar, which produces the acid that can leave holes in your teeth.

Swish and Spit After Vomiting
One unfortunate side effect of a stomach flu, among other illnesses, is vomiting. You might be tempted to brush your teeth right away, but it’s actually better to wait. When you vomit, stomach acids are coming in contact with your teeth and coating them. If you brush too soon, you’re just rubbing that acid all over the hard outer shell of your teeth.

Instead, swish with water, a diluted mouth rinse or a mixture of water and 1 tsp. baking soda to help wash the acid away. Spit, and brush about 30 minutes later.


Stay Hydrated to Avoid Dry Mouth
When you’re sick, you need plenty of fluids for many reasons. One is to prevent dry mouth. Not only is it uncomfortable—dry mouth can also put you at greater risk for cavities. The medications you might be taking for a cold or flu—such as antihistamines, decongestants or pain relievers—can also dry out your mouth, so drink plenty of water and suck on sugarless cough drops, throat lozenges or candies to keep that saliva flowing.

Choose the Right Fluids
When it comes to your mouth and your body, one beverage is always best. The safest thing to drink is water. Sports drinks might be recommended to replenish electrolytes when you’re sick, but drink them in moderation and don’t make them a habit after you’ve recovered because unless they are a sugar free version, they contain a lot of sugar.

You might also want something to warm you up. When you have a cold or the flu, you may want something comforting to get through it, like tea. Try not to add sugar or lemon if you can avoid it. Sugar can helps to fuel cavity-causing bacteria, and lemon is acidic. It’s something to keep in mind once you’re feeling 100% again, as well.

Contact Us
Dr. Frank Esfandiari makes it easy to get back on track if it's been a while since you've seen the dentist. You can make an appointment online by clicking here, or call us 805-647-6100.

Take A Tour
We've launched a new video for you to see what's inside our Ventura offices. When choosing a dentist we know it's important to feel safe, comfortable and familiar with your surroundings. 

Happy New Year means a Happy New You for 2022

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Happy New Year! Let 2022 be the year you improve your dental health and give yourself the gift of a great smile. Dr. Frank Esfandiari makes it easy to get back on track if it's been a while since you've seen the dentist. You can make an appointment online by clicking here, or call us 805-647-6100.

Take A Tour

We've launched a new video for you to see what's inside our Ventura office. When choosing a dentist we know it's important to feel safe, comfortable and familiar with your surroundings.


Show The World Your Smile

Healthy Smile

It may have been a while since you've seen a dentist, but we're to help you get back on track.  We want to make your smile something you can be proud of. You can make an appointment online by clicking here, or call us 805-647-6100.

Take A Tour

We've launched a new video for you to see what's inside our Ventura office. When choosing a dentist we know it's important to feel safe, comfortable and familiar with your surroundings.


What To Expect At The Dentist

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At Dr. Esfandiari's offices we're dedicated to providing you and your family a safe dental visit, so we're taking every possible safety precaution when it comes to COVID19. An October 2020 report published in The Journal of the American Dental Association found that fewer than one percent of dentists nationwide were found to have had COVID-19, and a more recent study in February of this year also found a low infection rate among dental hygienists.

We're using enhanced infection control procedures such as screening protocol intake, temperature readings and enhanced disinfection practices when treating patients.  

Before Your Appointment
To help make sure that patients arriving for their appointments are healthy we ask you fill out a COVID19 questionnaire.

We ask that you also limit the number of people you bring to the appointment. That could mean leaving your children at home or allowing older children to go into the office alone while their parent waits outside during their appointment.

At Your Appointment
When you arrive at the office we require all patients be masked and you will have your temperature taken.

Inside the office, you may notice things people often touch in the waiting room have been removed to cut down on transmitting virus germs.  We also provide hand sanitizer for you to use and may wipe down items you touch, such as pens, clipboards or furniture.

When you’re in the dental chair, you may notice some things look different from the last time you were there. We've covered the chairs with plastic to decrease the likelihood of transmission.  Dr. Esfandiari is also using different protective equipment than he's used at previous appointments as is his staff.  These additional precautions help protect both you and the dentist.

After Your Appointment
After your appointment is over, the staff will thoroughly clean the areas where you’ve been using disinfectants that are effective against the virus that causes COVID-19 to prepare for the next patient. This helps reduce the risk of illness being passed to others.

If you start feeling ill with the symptoms of COVID-19 within two days of your appointment, call us. You may have already been carrying the virus at the time of your appointment, so anyone who came into contact with you during that time could be at risk for getting sick too.

Remember, regular dental visits are an essential part of your overall heath. Be sure to reschedule your dental checkups. Dr. Esfandiari will make sure your visit is as safe as possible for everyone involved.

We Are Vaccinated at Ventura Village Family Dentistry

Dentist Ventura


We're dedicated to maintaining the highest levels of safety for our patients and that includes getting a COVID19 vaccine.  As of January 2021 our staff has had its first dose of the COVID19 vaccination and will receive their second round by the end of February. Ventura Village Family Dentistry is committed to keeping you and your family safe while providing top-notch dental care in Ventura County.

As of February 9, 2021 The Ventura County COVID19 vaccination distribution remains in PHASE 1A with both Moderna and Pfizer vaccines.

You're eligible to get the vaccine if you are:
-Healthcare Workers living OR working in Ventura County
-Any resident aged 65 or older as of 2/9/21

You can sign up for notifications to find out when you and your family can get a COVID19 vaccination by visiting the official web site VenturaCountyRecovers.org

Make an appointment to see Dr. Frank Esfandiari today.

5 Things You can Do Right Now to Improve your Dental Health

Ventura Dentist

 

It's not difficult to start improving your dental health right now.  Often times we forget simple daily habits we can make that greatly improve your next checkup.  Dental health translates to overall health, so maintaining a healthy mouth isn't just about looking good in selfies.  High blood pressure, migraines, compromised immune system and even anxiety can be exacerbated by poor dental health.  Here's 5 things you can do now to improve your dental health:

1. Replace your toothbrush
Dentists recommend you replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Your teeth may look clean, but a frayed, old toothbrush is not doing its job and could be doing damage to your gums.

2. You're Not Brushing Long Enough
The average person spends only 45 seconds brushing their teeth. Dentists recommend you brush for a full two minutes. If you're rushing through brushing too, try setting a timer or letting a song play on the radio.

3. Brushing Too Hard
You probably don't realize you're likely brushing much too hard. This is bad for gums and over time can wear down tissue. Gentle brushing is all you need to remove food particles.

4. Wait after eating before brushing
If you feel the need to clean your teeth after eating or drinking, dentists recommend waiting at least 60 minutes before brushing, especially if you had acidic foods like coffee, lemons, grapefruit or soda. 

5. Storing Your Brush Properly
When you’re done brushing, keep your toothbrush upright and let it air dry in the open to avoid allowing germs the opportunity to grow.