Procedures

• Diagnosis
• Root Canal
• Retreatment
• Surgical Endodontia
• Surgical Instructions
•    Before Treatment
•    After Treatment
•    In case of Emergency

Sedation and Relaxation

We realize that many patients are nervous about coming to a doctor when they are in need of treatment and are often fearful and anxious if they are in pain or have had difficult experiences in the past. There are many examples of negative information associated with dental treatments of all types, and particularly regarding endodontic treatment( the dreaded root canal). Many jokes and analogies are common comparing this procedure to myriad fates; childbirth being one typical example.

In reality, with modern local anesthetics, which today are strong, effective and long-acting, there is little to fear about endodontic treatment. Simply put, the experience of a root canal should be no different that having a simple filling placed in a tooth. When patients are asked about their experience, the pain associated with their tooth prior to coming to treatment is in reality what they actually remember.

We also realize that the mind is powerful, and all of us are in some way fearful of the unknown or basically are anxious when seeing a doctor or dentist. In our offices, we have several methods to relieve anxiety and reduce fear associated with treatment.

Relaxation and Breathing Techniques using Yoga Therapy

Deep states of calmness can be obtained within 5 minutes, without the use of medications using proper mind and breathing control. We will work with you one on one to teach you these simple methods in order to relieve common stress and anxiety. Many of our patients are able to use these techniques in order to relieve other stress in their lives, including the workplace or their home environments.

Nitrous Oxide For Moderate Anxiety

Nitrous Oxide is a sweet-smelling, non-irritating, colorless gas which you can breathe.

Nitrous Oxide has been the the primary means of sedation in dentistry for many years. Nitrous oxide is safe, the patient receives 50-70% oxygen with no less than 30% nitrous oxide.

The patient is able to breathe on their own and remain in control of all bodily functions.

The patient may experience mild amnesia and may fall asleep, not remembering all of what happened during their appointment.

There are many advantages to using Nitrous Oxide

• The depth of sedation can be altered at any time to increase or decrease sedation.
• There is no after effect such as a "hangover".
• Inhalation sedation is safe with no side effects on your heart and lungs, etc.
• Inhalation sedation is very effective in minimizing gagging.
• It works rapidly as it reaches the brain within 20 seconds. In as little as 2-3 minutes its relaxation and pain killing properties develop.

 

After completing the dental procedure, the patient feels normal , as their lungs and bodily tissues have been flushed with 100% oxygen, to remove all trace effects of the nitrous oxide. It is OK for patients to drive themselves to and from an appointment, if nitrous oxide sedation is used.

Prescription Anti-anxiety medication for moderate to severe anxiety

Prescription doses of Valium or Ativan may be prescribed by our office or by your physician. These are generally taken by mouth one hour prior to your treatment appointment. An additional dose is taken one hour prior to bedtime on the evening prior to your appointment. In certain cases, when taking prescription anti-anxiety medications, it may be necessary that you have someone drive you to and from your appointment.