Sedation Dentistry Myths

Sedation Dentistry Myths - Dr. Boals

Sedation Dentistry Myths

What do you know about sedation dentistry? We often find that our patients have been misinformed or have only knowledge of some of the sedation dentistry myths floating out there. Debunking these myths can ensure that each of our patients is better informed about the benefits of sedation dentistry.

We’ve gathered some of the most common sedation dentistry myths that we’ve heard about sedation dentistry. We’re debunking them so that our patients can have a solid and accurate understanding.

Myth One: Sedation Dentistry is Exclusively for Complicated Surgical Procedures

While it is true that sedation dentistry is quite often associated with complicated surgical procedures, it can be used for the majority of dental procedures at our Colorado Springs dentist office. Sedation dentistry can be used for routine dental procedures, including root canal therapy and the removal of wisdom teeth.

Myth Two: There is just one type of sedation

Generally speaking, there are three types of sedation dentistry.

  • Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
  • Oral sedation
  • IV sedation

Nitrous oxide and oral sedation are quite often the best choices for basic, routine procedures. IV sedation can be the choice for more complex oral procedures if you visit an emergency dentist in Colorado Springs and ask about sedation dentistry. It will help get you out of pain and help control anxiety they may be feeling.

Myth Three: Sedation Dentistry Is Not Safe

One of the most important things to be aware of is that your dentist and their staff will always make safety a priority. When you visit your dentist in Colorado Springs, you can be assured that your candidacy for sedation dentistry will be carefully considered.

When it comes to sedation dentistry in Colorado Springs, patients will find out if they are suitable candidates for sedation during their dental procedure.

Dentistry and dental technology have come a long way, says Digital Doc, an industry leader for intraoral cameras. Dentists know more now than ever and with the right tools diagnosis and treatment has vastly improved. Sedation dentistry is no different. There are plenty sedation dentistry options for everyone. It’s important to let your dentist know everything you know about your medical history before you plan your dental procedure. This will allow your dentist to recommend a treatment solution that will prove safe for you.

Myth Four: Sedation Dentistry is Safe for Everyone

This may be confusing, but while your safety will always be prioritized, there are some situations where sedation dentistry may not be the right option for some patients.

You may find you’re not the right candidate for sedation dentistry if some of the following apply.

  • You’re pregnant or breastfeeding
  • You’ve had a previous allergic reaction to one or more of the medications used for sedation dentistry
  • You have asthma or another medical condition that can intervene with the effectiveness of the medications used

Discuss your concerns with your dentist, and together you’ll come up with the right option to help you through your dentist appointment.

Myth Five: Only Patients with Anxiety Qualify for Sedation Dentistry

Some myths will indeed be wrapped in some form of truth. In this case, there’s no truth to the idea that sedation dentistry is only right for those with anxiety. Sedation dentistry can also be used for several reasons, including the following:

  • In situations where patients have an intense gag reflex
  • On patients who have severe fears of needles
  • In situations where patients are restless, and cannot sit still
  • For patients who are undergoing complex or multiple procedures at one time

Do you have anxiety and perhaps wish to be sedated during even a dental cleaning? Even the noninvasive treatments like veneers can call for sedation dentistry. Just ask your Colorado Springs dentist to learn more. 

There’s no reason for you to fear the dentist. Knowing the truth about sedation dentistry can put you at ease, no matter which procedure you have coming up. To learn more about our sedation services, contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry.

Most Common Dental Emergencies

common dental emergencies - Dr. Boals

Most Common Dental Emergencies

You brush after every meal, and you floss at least once a day. You even use a quality mouthwash to rinse debris free from your teeth. This can help to keep your teeth and your mouth healthier and save you from a number of dental concerns. However, try as you might, you simply can’t prepare for dental emergencies.

Just what qualifies as a dental emergency? We’ve gathered a list of the most common dental emergencies treated by our Colorado Springs dentist.

One or More Cracked Teeth

There are a number of ways that a tooth can become cracked. It could be that you bit down hard on something, like ice or nuts. It could also be that you suffer from bruxism, also known as teeth grinding experienced at night. 

A cracked tooth needs to be addressed by your dentist in Colorado Springs as soon as possible. Even if there is no pain, a cracked tooth is at high risk for decay sneaking in. If your tooth becomes infected, there is potential for tooth loss. 

Neglect and advanced decay will likely result in an extraction. If you are a patient who thinks you need your tooth pulled, visit Kissing Camels Family Dentistry for tooth removal in Colorado Springs.  

Accidents and Trauma to a Tooth

Trauma is one of the most common dental emergencies. It quite often leads to the loss of the tooth. Trauma to a tooth can result in a fracture that cannot be seen with the naked eye. It can also lead to the tooth being dislodged.

While a dislodge tooth is not a good thing, the good news is that you can potentially still save the tooth. There is a time crunch, however. Dr. Beth Herko, an emergency dentist in New Providence, NJ, recommends rinsing the tooth with milk or water. Then tuck it inside of your cheek as you make your way to the dentist.

If the tooth is still in good shape, it may be able to be reseated back into the gum. Your dentist will also be able to help treat any pain you’re experiencing.

Tooth and Gum Pain

There are a number of concerns that can result in extreme pain in a tooth or in your gums. It could be that you have an infection in a tooth or an abscess.

Tooth pain should never be ignored, as it could be a simple solution that can get you out of pain. Your Colorado Springs dentist will examine your mouth and may take a few X-rays to better understand what is going on. If necessary, during your emergency dental Colorado Springs visit, the tooth could be extracted if the damage is too severe.

Lost Crowns and Fillings

It is possible for fillings to fall out and crowns to loosen. If this does happen, it’s going to put the rest of your tooth at high risk for damage and advanced decay. If the crown, whether temporary or permanent, is dislodged, try to salvage it. You could potentially set it back over the tooth until you’re able to get to your dentist.

No matter your need, our dental patients in Colorado Springs, CO, can trust in our compassionate expertise. Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry to schedule your appointment today.