|
Millions of people are afraid of going to the dentist. Some would rather walk through a burning building, while others are so terrified that no matter how much pain they are in they refuse to even schedule an appointment, much less follow through. The world of dentistry has had an uphill battle to convince many people they have made great strides in the area of pain management and control. One way to address the issue is by talking about the possibility of Sedation Dentistry.
Who would benefit from Sedation Dentistry?
It is not uncommon for a dentist to see a patient who has gone without any form of dental treatment for 10 to 30 years, or more. A childhood experience may have caused this fear, either from a dentist they did not like, gag reflexes, the smell of the dental office, fear of needles, or horror stories told by their big brother. Some may not have actually had any bad experiences themselves, but shrink from the thought of hearing drills or getting an impression.
There are two main types of patients who will benefit from Sedation Dentistry – those who have fear-based discomfort and those who have some degree of fear, but are more in a rush. These patients want to have as few appointments as possible in order for them to get on with their busy life.
No matter the reason, people need to understand that vast strides have been made to make dentistry virtually pain-free – either with drugs taken before their appointment, hypnotherapy, or as a last resort – an injection.
Going without proper dental care can lead to cavities, loss of teeth, receding gums, jaw pain, misaligned bite. Infections from abscesses, gone untreated, can not only be unhealthy, but fatal. For these reasons, the world of dentistry has tried to show that there is such a thing as pain-free dentistry.
Qualification needed from Doctor and Staff
One area of pain control and assurance that has been explored in depth is Sedation Dentistry, quickly becoming one of the many new innovations dentists have added to their services. The dental industry has found that being able to help those who would otherwise go without treatment can be life saving as well as beneficial to their practice.
Dentists who administer Sedation undergo special training and certification. Some states, like California, require permits if they plan to administer medication dosages that exceed the FDA minimum requirements. This would require them to have 25 hours of training, and renewed every 2 years.
The dentist and staff will be well trained and make the extra effort needed to put their patient at ease. They will need to hone their compassion and communication skills in order to calm the patient’s fears.
How Oral Sedation Works
Oral sedation is typically safe, but in order for a dentist to administer treatment they will need a complete history, which includes a list of allergies, medications that are being taken, and any current illness – such as diabetes. The patient’s doctor will be consulted to assure that every precaution will be taken and there is no interaction of medications. Blood pressure and pulse are to be constantly supervised to ensure any problems are detected immediately.
Although oral sedation is safe for most people, there are exceptions, like pregnancy and people who are taking medications that will not react well together.
Some patients will be given an oral sedative to take the evening prior to their appointment. A supplement, with a low dose of nitrous oxide during administration of a local anesthetic may be required. Patients are NOT put to sleep, but rather in a relaxed state. After the appointment is complete post-operative instructions are given to the patient and their escort (they should never drive home after this treatment is completed). They will then return home to rest.
As an added bonus, many patients may experience a small spell of amnesia, where they may not even remember they were at the dentist.
Place your trust one of the Imagecare Dentist
To find out what your Imagecare staff and do to make your treatment more comfortable, contact our office for a free consultation – 972-256-8312. Visit www.ImagecareDental.com to learn more about this successful Plano Dental practice.
|
