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Unveiling Sedation Dentistry: A Comprehensive Guide

Mar 30, 2024 by admin 0 Comments

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is a moderate type of sedation to keep you comfortable during dental procedures. Also known as conscious sedation, you are awake but relaxed and insensitive to pain. Sedation dentistry benefits children and those with dental anxiety, sensitive teeth, and more.

Types of Sedation Dentistry

Each type of sedation is given by a dentist or dental anesthesiologist certified to administer it. Your dentist will recommend the kind that is best for your dental needs. In most types, you’ll be advised not to eat or drink for six hours before the procedure.

Nitrous Oxide

  • Procedure: You inhale nitrous oxide through a mask. Also known as “laughing gas, ” it can take effect within 5 minutes. Throughout the process, your dentist will adjust the dosages accordingly.
  • Recovery time: As soon as your dentist has you inhale pure oxygen through a mask, your body will flush the laughing gas out of your system in 15-30 minutes.

Sedation through Oral Medication

  • Procedure: You’ll be given a sedative you can take as a pill or other medicine. For children, liquid medicine is easier to swallow.
  • Recovery time: It may take 24 hours of full recovery. Having a trusted person drive you home after your dental appointment is recommended.

Intravenous Sedation

  • Procedure: The sedative is delivered through an IV line and into your bloodstream. Throughout the procedure, your dentist will monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and other vital signs. The dosage is adjusted accordingly.
  • Recovery time: It may take 24 hours of full recovery. Having a trusted person drive you home after your dental appointment is recommended.

Are You Awake During Dental Sedation?

You are awake during dental sedation unless general anesthesia is also recommended. With all the types of conscious sedation mentioned above, you are groggy but conscious and able to follow instructions. With general anesthesia, you are fully unconscious. General anesthesia is recommended for more complex dental procedures. 

Can You Feel Pain During Sedation Dentistry?

Due to sedation dentistry’s relaxing and groggy effect, you will not feel pain during the dental procedure. At the same time, your dentist will still administer local anesthesia after you are sedated to numb your teeth and gums. 

We’re Here to Help You

If you find it difficult to relax during your procedure, we are here to help. At Bellevue Dentist, Dr. Don Jayne is certified in sedation dentistry and is here to help you achieve healthy teeth at your comfort. Schedule an appointment today for your first step in your journey.

Bellevue Dentist | Your Guide

Health, reference

Caring For Your Dental Crowns: A Guide For Patients

Mar 24, 2024 by admin 0 Comments

If you have a dental crown, you may be wondering how to properly care for it. There are a few simple steps to ensure your crown remains strong and functional for years

The first 24-48 hours after getting a crown

If you just got a new crown, take a little extra care when eating for a day or two. Whether you opted for a CEREC ceramic crown, resin, or metal, avoid eating sticky, hard. and chewy food. Nuts, caramel, popcorn, and ice can loosen or dislodge crowns. For a few days, eat softer foods. Good choices for nutrient-dense soft foods include cooked vegetables, fish or tofu, and yogurt.

Routine tips to care for a crown

Once you feel more comfortable, care for your like any other tooth. After all, there is still a tooth beneath the crown. Your crown will need care to keep gum disease and decay at bay.

Brush and floss regularly

It’s important to maintain your oral hygiene routine when you get a new crown. Brush twice a day with gentle pressure in a circular motion. This ensures the area around the crown is well-cleaned without causing damage to the dental work itself. Floss your teeth as usual to remove food particles and plaque. Make sure to floss both sides of the crown with soft dental floss.

Avoid hard and sticky foods

Avoiding hard, sticky foods is a good rule of thumb. Sticky foods can cause damage to teeth and crowns. Chewing on sticky foods like caramel or hard candies can loosen your crown. Avoid these foods and help your crowns last for years.

Be mindful of your habits

Mindless habits, including clenching teeth, biting nails, or chewing on pens can wreak havoc on your teeth. When your teeth or crowns encounter another hard surface, they crack or chip. If these habits are hard to break, talk to Dr. Frahm about treatment options. A custom-fitted night guard to help protect your investment.

Regular checkups and cleanings

It goes without saying that you should continue with your regular dental checkups to maintain your overall oral health. During your visit, Dr. Frahm will check on your crowns and your teeth and gums to ensure there are no signs of damage or decay.

Visit our office for regular cleanings to maintain your oral health and keep your dental work looking its best. Our gentle hygienist uses technology and clinical tools to carefully remove plaque around your crowns. She also polished your teeth to restore their luster.

Your dental health is of the utmost importance to us. If you are ever unsure of how to care for your crowns or need a brush-up on ways to maintain your oral hygiene, we’re here for you. Our holistic approach to dental care always keeps your long-term wellness in mind.

Learn more and check out our guide below. 

Dr. Sarah Frahm

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