Tag: oral health

Many people are scared to go to the dentist and the idea of undergoing a dental procedure terrifies them. Sedation dentistry is for people who deal with dental anxiety. There are different types of sedation available at your Smile Glen Ellyn dentist. Our professional care team can help you choose the one that is right for you.

What is sedation dentistry?

Dental sedation includes techniques to help calm patients before they have a dental procedure. It can also be used to help patients be more comfortable during long dental procedures. Some people get anxious about getting numbing shots in their gums. Sedation methods are used to help ease that anxiety. Some sedatives do not put you to sleep for the procedure, they just have a calming effect. You may not even remember the procedure once it is over, even though you were awake.

Who is a good candidate for sedation at the dentist?

There are a few reasons you may be a good candidate for sedation while at the dentist’s office. Here are six reasons it might be a good option for you.

•  Dental visits make you anxious or extremely nervous.
•  Past traumatic dental experiences.
•  You are undergoing extensive dental work.
•  Your teeth are extremely sensitive.
•  You have a hard time being still.
•  Your gag reflex is stronger than normal.

Common Types of Sedation

There are three main ways a dentist may sedate you to calm anxiety during dental procedures.

• Nitrous Oxide. You may have heard this referred to as laughing gas. This method has a mild sedative effect. It helps you relax but does not put you to sleep. A mask is worn so you can easily breathe in the gas. It only takes a few seconds for the gas to begin working. The effects will wear off quickly as soon as the gas is removed. You will be able to drive yourself home afterward.
• Oral Sedation. Some patients are given medication to be taken by mouth. Each person’s situation is different, and Dr. Gibbs will determine the appropriate dosage. You may be given one pill to take before going in for the dental procedure. Some patients are given one dose the night before and another dose the morning before the procedure. Even though you should remain awake during the procedure, you won’t remember much of it afterward. The medication can make you groggy for a few hours, but it should wear off within 24 hours. You will need someone to drive you home.
• IV Sedation. During conscious sedation or IV sedation, you will remain conscious during procedures, but you’ll be totally relaxed. You won’t experience pain, and you will not remember the procedure afterward.

Can any dentist perform sedation?

Oral sedation and nitrous oxide can be given by most dentists. However, to administer IV sedation or general anesthesia, dentists have to complete a separate program and become accredited to do so. Some dentists opt to use a specialist or anesthesiologist to administer general anesthesia to their patients.

How safe is sedation dentistry?

Dental sedation is safe for most people. Your San Pablo dentist will talk with you and take your personal needs into account before recommending a type of sedation. Certain health conditions or current medications will be taken into consideration to determine which is the safest method for you.

What types of sedation does Dr. Gibbs use?

It’s important to us that you feel comfortable during your visit. We offer several forms of sedation to patients including IV sedation. Dr. Gibbs will discuss the most appropriate option for you prior to your procedure.

How much does sedation dentistry cost?

The cost for sedation dentistry will vary based on the type of sedation that is used. You will be made aware of the costs of being sedated before your procedure. Be sure to check with your insurance to see if your policy covers it.

Contact Our Offices Today

Do you have more questions for the Glen Ellyn dental team? Call us today at (630) 858-8800 or book your appointment online. Be sure to ask Dr. Gibbs which method of sedation is right for you.

When is the last time you mentioned going to the dentist among friends? You’ve likely heard horror stories involving various levels of pain and discomfort. There are a lot of people who simply expect to experience pain when they visit the dentist. However, it doesn’t have to be this way. Sedation dentistry helps you be more comfortable during dental treatments.

What is sedation dentistry?

When you visit Smile Glen Ellyn, you will be greeted by friendly and warm staff members. One goal is to create a healthy relationship between you and the dental team. When you have confidence in those who are working with you the experience will go much smoother. Dr. Gibbs and the dental team understand that when you are at ease your body can more easily respond to pain control and medication. Sedation dentistry ensures you can get the dental treatment you need without fear of pain.

Safe forms of sedation are used to help provide calmness before procedures are performed. This may include relieving anxiety or numbing affected areas so you can’t feel the dental professional working. There are various levels of sedation including:

•  Minimal sedation where the patient remains awake but has calm feelings.
•  Moderate sedation where the patient is fully awake, but not fully aware.
•  Deep sedation keeps the patient awake but they only have minimal consciousness.
•  General anesthesia will cause the patient to sleep deeply without being conscious.

How safe is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry has been practiced for years, it’s not new. However, over the last decade or so, new techniques have been able to expand its application. The latest techniques can be used for routine cleanings or even for those who experience a lot of anxiety just by being in the dentist’s chair. Sedation can be used as an antidote for anxiety or to help provide a numbing effect. It can also prevent most pain during procedures. The three ways sedation is administered in the Glen Ellyn dental office include:

• Inhalation – Commonly called “laughing gas” nitrous oxide is administered using a breathing mask. It has a calming effect but the patient isn’t unconscious. In most cases, they can drive themselves home safely after the procedure.
• Oral Medication – Sedation may be administered using a pill that is available in different strengths. It mostly makes people groggy and many times patients fall asleep during the procedure.
• Intravenous Drip – Sedation can also be administered via an IV. They will feel it take effect almost immediately. The doctor carefully monitors and adjusts the dosage during procedures.

These types of sedation may also be paired with a topical anesthetic to numb the immediate area where the dentist is working. Combining two approaches is extremely effective. Following a dental procedure, you’ll be given instructions on any measures you can take at home to help provide relief from any discomfort that may follow. This can include applying ice packs, warm rags, or taking medications to alleviate pain.

Sedation Dentistry at Glen Ellyn

Many dental practitioners do not offer sedation dental care. But Dr. Gibbs at Smile Glen Ellyn makes procedures easy and convenient. Call us today to discuss what level of sedation might be appropriate to help you alleviate anxious feelings about visiting the dentist.  We have specialized staff, experience, and certifications to ensure your next trip to the dentist is as comfortable as possible. Contact our offices today to schedule your next visit.

Most of us think of sugar as the number one enemy of healthy teeth. However, there are other foods and drinks that can wreak havoc on your oral health as well. This is why simply eliminating or reducing the amount of sugar from your diet is simply not enough. Dr. Thomas Gibbs knows that this is a common misconception and works to educate patients on the best ways to improve oral health.

More Sugar Anyone?

Sugar can cause cavities when it mixes with the plaque on teeth and creates an acidic environment that wears on the enamel of your teeth over time. Many people understand that sugary foods and drinks aren’t the healthiest choices for good oral health; however, few understand why. As a result, many people will cut down on sugary foods or choose sugar-free options thinking they are improving their oral health.

What Else Can be Done to Protect Tooth Enamel in addition to  Eliminating Sugar?

Your Glen Ellyn, IL dentist understands that most patients think that eliminating sugar will stop the slow assault on tooth enamel and reduce cavities. However, there are other factors that should be considered as well. Acidic foods and drinks may or may not be sugary, but the acids present in these foods and drinks can be just as troublesome as sugary foods because they wear away at tooth enamel as well. This is why it’s a good idea to reduce your consumption of acidic foods as well as sugary foods and drinks, or remembering to rinse or brush after having these foods. The Smile Glen Ellyn team is committed to educating patients and providing tips to help preserve tooth enamel and improve overall oral health.