Showing posts with label dental care livermore ca. Show all posts
Showing posts with label dental care livermore ca. Show all posts

Sunday, October 22, 2023

Making living with dentures easy and comfortable

Your dentures were made to fit you precisely and, if they are cared for properly, they do not change shape.

But you may sometimes find that they can become loose due to natural changes in the gums and bone supporting them. As the jawbone begins to shrink, so do the gums.

If you find your dentures no longer fit properly, see your dentist as soon as possible so adjustments can be made.

Trying to change the fit of your dentures yourself can damage them and make them unrepairable so this would be a costly experiment!

Ill-fitting dentures repaired at home can also irritate the gums, tongue and cheeks.

In an emergency, you could use denture adhesives to keep the dentures stable until you are able to see the dentist.

Even if you no longer have your natural teeth, it’s still important to see your dentist regularly for an oral examination.

The dentist will examine your mouth to check for any problem with the gum ridges, the tongue and the joints of the jaw, as well as screen for oral cancer.

For a variety of reasons, many older adults are more susceptible to oral diseases, including oral cancer. About 95 percent of all cancers are found in people over age 40. However, many of these cancers are treatable if detected early.

Oral tissues are also checked for signs of other diseases that can first manifest themselves in the mouth.

Living with dentures can be comfortable if you continue to care for your oral hygiene and make regular visits to your dentist for a checkup.

Sunday, October 15, 2023

Dental plaque – what it is and how to avoid it

You’ve probably heard people talking about plaque and maybe you’ve some idea of what it is.

But its useful to know a bit more about it so that you can do what's necessary to minimize the risks.

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and gums.

When you’ve eaten a meal or snack, the bacteria in plaque release acids that attack tooth enamel. When this happens regularly, the enamel can weaken. This eventually leads to tooth decay.

The food we eat often causes plaque bacteria to produce acids. So, if you eat a lot of snacks, your teeth may be suffering acid attacks all day.

If you don’t remove the plaque through effective daily brushing and cleaning between the teeth, it can eventually harden into calculus or tartar.

Another effect of plaque is that it also produces substances that irritate the gums, making them red and tender or causing them to bleed easily.

If you want to prevent tooth decay and gum disease, make sure you have a balanced diet and avoid having too many snacks between meals.

When you feel like a snack, go for foods such as raw vegetables, plain yogurt, cheese or a piece of fruit.

Sunday, October 8, 2023

Cosmetic dentistry for seniors: How older adults can benefit from dental makeovers

Cosmetic dentistry isn't just for young adults looking to improve their smiles. In fact, older adults can benefit just as much from dental makeovers. As we age, our teeth and gums undergo changes that can affect the appearance of our smile. Fortunately, cosmetic dentistry can help address these changes and improve the overall appearance of a smile. Here's how older adults can benefit from cosmetic dentistry.

  • Teeth Whitening: Teeth can become discolored or stained over time, making them look yellow or gray. Teeth whitening can help remove these stains and brighten the smile. Many older adults opt for teeth whitening as a way to rejuvenate their smile and achieve a more youthful appearance.

  • Dental Implants: Missing teeth can be a common problem for older adults, and dental implants can provide a permanent solution. Dental implants look and function like natural teeth, and they can help restore confidence and improve the overall appearance of a smile.

  • Dentures: For older adults who are missing several teeth, dentures can provide a more affordable solution than dental implants. Dentures can be customized to fit the individual's mouth, and they can improve the appearance of the smile while also restoring function to the mouth.

  • Veneers: Veneers can be used to correct a variety of cosmetic issues, such as chips, cracks, and stains. They can also be used to fill in gaps between teeth and improve the overall appearance of the smile.

Cosmetic dentistry isn't just for young adults. Older adults can benefit just as much from dental makeovers, as cosmetic dentistry can help address the changes that occur in the teeth and gums over time. From teeth whitening to dental implants, dentures, and veneers, there are a variety of cosmetic dental procedures that can help seniors achieve a more youthful, confident smile. If you're an older adult who is looking to improve the appearance of your smile, talk to your dentist about your options for cosmetic dentistry.

Wednesday, September 27, 2023

Dental Implants for Sports Enthusiasts: Safety and Performance Benefits

As a sports enthusiast, you know how important it is to have a healthy and strong smile. Whether you participate in high-contact sports or simply enjoy a leisurely game of basketball or soccer, your teeth and gums can be at risk of injury. Dental implants can offer a solution that not only restores your smile, but also improves your safety and performance on the field.

One of the main benefits of dental implants for sports enthusiasts is that they are a durable and stable tooth replacement option. Unlike traditional dentures, which can slip or come loose during physical activity, dental implants are anchored securely in your jawbone. This means that you can enjoy your favorite sports and activities with confidence, without worrying about your teeth shifting or falling out.

In addition to their stability, dental implants can also improve your oral health by helping to prevent bone loss in your jaw. When you lose a tooth, the surrounding bone tissue can begin to deteriorate over time. This can not only weaken your jawbone, but also cause your remaining teeth to shift out of place, leading to bite problems and other dental issues. Dental implants, on the other hand, stimulate the bone tissue in your jaw, helping to prevent bone loss and maintain the structure of your jawbone.

Finally, dental implants can also enhance your overall performance on the field by improving your ability to chew and speak properly. When you have missing teeth, it can be difficult to eat certain foods or speak clearly, which can impact your energy levels and confidence. Dental implants restore your ability to chew and speak naturally, which can help you perform at your best.

If you’re a sports enthusiast looking to improve your smile and enhance your safety and performance on the field, dental implants may be the right choice for you. Talk to your dentist to learn more about this tooth replacement option and find out if it’s right for your needs.

Thursday, September 14, 2023

Making the most of your smile

Your smile is a major factor in the impression people get when they meet you.

And the good news is that you now don’t have to settle for a smile spoiled by stained, chipped, or misshapen teeth.

Advances in dental treatment mean there is a wide range of choices to help you get the smile that you want. Here are some of the options:
– Tooth whitening (bleaching) can help brighten teeth that have become discolored or stained. It can be done in the dental office or with a system the dentist can give you to use at home
– Bonding improves the appearance of teeth that have become chipped, broken, cracked or stained. This is done by bonding tooth-colored materials to the tooth surface
– Enamel shaping involves modifying teeth to improve their appearance by removing or contouring enamel
– Veneers are thin custom-made shells of tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front side of teeth. They are used to treat spaces between teeth and teeth that are chipped, stained or poorly shaped.
– Braces may be needed if teeth are crooked, crowded or do not meet properly – and not just for kids

Even small changes can have a big impact on your smile and so make a huge difference to how you look and how you feel about yourself.

If you’d like an even better smile, your dentist will be able to give you information about the options available.

Monday, August 7, 2023

Sensitive Teeth Treatment

Sensitive teeth is a common problem that causes many people to feel discomfort with hot or cold foods and drinks.

It can also make it uncomfortable to brush or floss the teeth and therefore can lead to further oral problems.

However, sensitive teeth can be treated.

If you suffer from this, your dentist may suggest that you try a desensitizing toothpaste, which contains compounds that help block transmission of sensation from the tooth surface to the nerve.

For desensitizing toothpaste to work, you normally have to make several applications.

If the desensitizing toothpaste does not help, your dentist may suggest further solutions.

For example, fluoride gel – which strengthens tooth enamel and reduces the transmission of sensations – may be applied to the sensitive areas of the teeth.

If the sensitivity is caused by receding gums, your dentist may use bonding agents that “seal” the sensitive teeth.

The sealer is usually made of a plastic material.

If there is severe hypersensitivity which cannot be treated by other means, there is the option of endodontic (root canal) treatment.

Sensitive teeth is a problem that can stop you enjoying your food but is one that can often be solved.

Sunday, July 30, 2023

Make your visit to the dentist easier: Sedation And General Anesthesia

While local anesthetics are often used in dental treatment, there is sometimes a need for anti-anxiety agents – such as nitrous oxide – or sedatives to help people relax during dental visits.

Dentists may use these agents to induce “minimal or moderate sedation”.

In this case, the patient reaches a relaxed state during treatment but can respond to speech or touch.

Sedatives can be administered before, during or after dental procedures by mouth, inhalation or injection.

More complex treatments may require drugs that can induce “deep sedation”.

This reduces consciousness and causes a loss of feeling which helps to reduce both pain and anxiety.

Sometimes patients undergo “general anesthesia” where the drugs lead to a temporary loss of consciousness.

A dentist may recommend deep sedation or general anesthesia for certain procedures with children or with adults who have severe anxiety or for people who have difficulty controlling their movements.

While these techniques to control pain and anxiety are used to treat tens of millions of patients safely every year, its important that you let your dentist know anything that might affect your ability to benefit from them for example, tell them about any illnesses or health conditions, whether you are taking any medications and if you’ve had any problems with allergic reactions to medications.

Sunday, July 23, 2023

What to do if you have problems with your dentist

Choosing the right dentist for your needs is an important part of giving yourself the best oral health possible.

Sometimes you may find that things are not working out for the best and it’s important to take steps to resolve any problems rather than just put off your dental care.

First, talk to your dentist about any concerns. They will probably be able to accommodate your needs if you tell them what you are looking for.

In some situations, you may feel that you want to look around at alternative options – maybe there are other dentists who meet your needs better, taking into account factors such as location, office hours, fees and emergency arrangements.

If you are comparing fees, ask for estimates on full-mouth x-rays and a preventive dental visit that includes an oral exam and tooth cleaning.

If you have any doubts about treatment your dentist has recommended, it may be a good idea to set your mind at rest by getting a second opinion from another dentist.

However, even in the best dentist-patient relationship, problems can sometimes occur. If your dentist is not able to resolve your concerns, you can contact your state or local dental association.

They have established systems of peer review that provide an impartial and easy way to resolving misunderstandings regarding the appropriateness or quality of care.

If you are not completely satisfied with the dental treatment you are getting, it’s important to take steps to put it right – whether you sort it out with your own dentist or find another one.

Thursday, June 29, 2023

Braces: How can it made you to look good

Orthodontic appliances such as braces can be used to help straighten out crooked and crowded teeth.

This is not just about looking better; it also helps improve your dental health.

How they look may determine how you feel about wearing them but, these days, braces can be as inconspicuous as you want.

Brackets the part of the braces that attaches to each tooth can sometimes be attached to the back of the tooth, making them less noticeable.

The brackets can be made in a wide range of different materials such as metal, ceramic or plastic.

They can also be designed to look appealing. For example, they may be clear or tooth-colored. There can also be shaped in a variety of ways like hearts and footballs or created in favorite colors.

You could even go for gold-plated braces or glow-in-the-dark retainers!

Thursday, April 20, 2023

The Art of Restorative Dentistry: How to Achieve Natural-Looking Results

Restorative dentistry is a branch of dentistry that aims to restore the function and appearance of teeth that have been damaged, decayed, or lost. Whether you need a filling, a crown, a bridge, or a dental implant, the goal of restorative dentistry is to provide you with a natural-looking and long-lasting solution that blends seamlessly with your existing teeth.

But how do dentists achieve such natural-looking results? Here are some of the key factors that come into play:

  • Color matching: One of the most important aspects of restorative dentistry is color matching. Dentists use a shade guide to select the color of the restorative material that best matches your natural teeth. They may also use different shades and translucencies to mimic the variations found in natural teeth.
  • Customization: Restorative dentistry is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Each restoration is custom-made to fit your unique mouth and bite. This includes taking accurate impressions and measurements, as well as crafting the restoration in a dental laboratory.
  • Attention to detail: Restorative dentistry requires a high level of precision and attention to detail. Dentists must consider factors such as the shape, size, and position of the teeth, as well as the alignment of the bite, in order to achieve optimal results.
  • Materials: There are a variety of restorative materials available, including porcelain, composite resin, and metal alloys. Dentists will choose the material that best suits your needs and goals, taking into account factors such as durability, aesthetics, and cost.
  • Collaboration: Restorative dentistry often involves collaboration between the dentist, the dental laboratory, and other specialists, such as orthodontists or periodontists. This teamwork ensures that all aspects of the restoration are considered and that the final result is as natural-looking and functional as possible.

Restorative dentistry is truly an art form, requiring skill, expertise, and a keen eye for detail. If you are in need of restorative dental work, be sure to choose a dentist who has the training and experience necessary to achieve the natural-looking results you desire. 

Thursday, April 13, 2023

5 Surprising Foods That Naturally Whiten Teeth

We all know that coffee, tea, and red wine can stain our teeth over time, but did you know that there are certain foods that can actually help whiten them? Here are 5 surprising foods that can naturally brighten your smile:

  • Strawberries: Not only are they delicious, but strawberries also contain malic acid, which is a natural enamel whitener. Mash up a few strawberries and apply the mixture to your teeth for a few minutes, then rinse.
  • Cheese: This one might sound strange, but cheese is high in calcium and phosphorus, which can help strengthen and whiten your teeth. Plus, the chewing required to eat cheese helps stimulate saliva production, which naturally cleanses your teeth.
  • Pineapple: Another fruit that contains natural enzymes that can help break down stains on your teeth. Pineapple is also high in vitamin C, which can help prevent gum disease and promote overall oral health.
  • Broccoli: This superfood is not only good for your body, but it's also good for your teeth! Broccoli contains iron, which forms a barrier on your teeth to protect them from stains, and fiber, which helps scrub away plaque and other debris.
  • Sesame seeds: These tiny seeds are a great source of calcium, which can help strengthen your teeth and keep them looking bright. You can sprinkle them on your meals or even mix them into your toothpaste for an extra boost.

Of course, these foods alone won't give you a Hollywood smile overnight, but incorporating them into your diet can help keep your teeth looking healthy and white in the long run. Just remember to also practice good oral hygiene, like brushing and flossing regularly, to maintain a beautiful, healthy smile.

Friday, March 31, 2023

Teeth Whitening Treatments, Benefits, and Risks

Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental treatment that can enhance the appearance of your smile by brightening and removing stains from your teeth. In this blog, we'll explore the different types of teeth whitening treatments available, their benefits and risks, and how to maintain a bright, healthy smile.

Types of Teeth Whitening Treatments

  1. In-Office Teeth Whitening: This is the most effective and quickest teeth whitening method. Your dentist will apply a powerful bleaching agent to your teeth and use a special light to activate the agent. The whole process takes about an hour, and you'll see immediate results.
  2. At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits: There are many at-home teeth whitening kits available in the market. These kits typically include a whitening gel that you apply to your teeth using a tray or strips. They can be effective, but it may take a few weeks to see noticeable results.
  3. Natural Teeth Whitening: Some natural remedies can help whiten your teeth, including brushing with baking soda or using hydrogen peroxide. However, these methods may not be as effective as professional treatments, and there is a risk of damaging your teeth or gums if used incorrectly.

Benefits and Risks of Teeth Whitening

The main benefit of teeth whitening is improving the appearance of your smile. A brighter smile can increase your confidence and self-esteem. However, there are some risks to be aware of. Overuse of teeth whitening treatments can cause tooth sensitivity and damage to your enamel. It's essential to follow your dentist's instructions or product guidelines carefully.

Maintaining a Bright, Healthy Smile

After undergoing teeth whitening treatment, it's important to maintain good oral hygiene to keep your teeth looking their best. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups. Avoid smoking and limit your consumption of coffee, tea, and other staining foods and beverages.

In conclusion, teeth whitening can be an excellent way to enhance the appearance of your smile, but it's important to choose the right treatment and take good care of your teeth afterward. Talk to your dentist to determine the best teeth whitening method for you, and enjoy your brighter, healthier smile!

Thursday, March 23, 2023

Veneers: The Secret to a Perfect Smile

Do you dream of having a beautiful, straight, and flawless smile? Thanks to modern dental technology, achieving a stunning smile is more accessible than ever before. One of the most popular options for transforming the appearance of teeth is veneers.

What are veneers?

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are placed over the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. They are usually made of porcelain or composite resin and are designed to look and feel like natural teeth.

Why choose veneers?

Veneers are an excellent solution for a wide range of dental issues, including:

  1. Stained or discolored teeth: Teeth that are severely discolored or stained can be difficult to whiten with traditional teeth whitening methods. Veneers offer a long-lasting and effective solution for brightening your smile.

  2. Chipped or broken teeth: Veneers can restore the shape and size of teeth that are chipped or broken. They can also help protect teeth from further damage.

  3. Misaligned or uneven teeth: If you have gaps or crooked teeth, veneers can help you achieve a straighter and more symmetrical smile without the need for braces.

  4. Irregularly shaped teeth: Veneers can also improve the appearance of teeth that are too small or oddly shaped.

What is the process of getting veneers?

Getting veneers usually involves two or three visits to your dentist. During your first visit, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth and prepare them for the veneers by removing a small amount of enamel. This allows the veneers to fit snugly over the teeth without appearing bulky or unnatural.

Once your custom-made veneers are ready, your dentist will place them over your teeth and bond them using a special adhesive. Finally, your dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable and natural-looking fit.

How long do veneers last?

With proper care, veneers can last for 10-15 years or more. It is important to follow good oral hygiene habits, including brushing and flossing regularly and visiting your dentist for checkups and cleanings.

Are veneers right for me?

If you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth, veneers may be the perfect solution for you. However, it is important to discuss your options with your dentist and make sure that veneers are the best choice for your specific needs.

At Endre Selmeczy D.M.D., we offer a range of cosmetic dentistry services, including veneers, to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how veneers can transform your smile.

Sunday, February 5, 2023

7 Surprising Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry for Your Smile and Overall Health

  1. Boosts Confidence: A cosmetic dental procedure can greatly improve your smile, which in turn can increase your self-esteem and confidence.
  2. Improves Oral Health: Some cosmetic dental procedures, such as teeth whitening and bonding, can also help improve the overall health of your teeth.
  3. Corrects Bite and Alignment Issues: Cosmetic dentistry can also help correct bite and alignment problems, reducing the risk of oral health issues such as jaw pain, headache and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.
  4. Prevents Future Damage: Certain cosmetic dental procedures, such as veneers, can provide a protective barrier for your teeth, preventing further damage from occurring.
  5. Enhances Oral Function: Cosmetic dentistry can improve oral function, making it easier to eat and speak with confidence.
  6. Rejuvenates Your Appearance: A cosmetic dental procedure can give you a youthful and rejuvenated appearance, taking years off your smile.
  7. Long-lasting Results: Most cosmetic dental procedures are long-lasting, providing you with a beautiful smile for years to come.

In conclusion, cosmetic dentistry provides many benefits for your smile and overall health, making it an investment worth considering.

Monday, January 30, 2023

5 Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Smile

 1. Brush your teeth twice a day: Brushing your teeth twice a day is the most basic and essential step in maintaining good oral hygiene. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and a fluoride toothpaste to gently brush your teeth for at least two minutes.

2. Floss daily: Flossing is just as important as brushing your teeth. It helps remove plaque and food particles that get stuck between your teeth and can lead to cavities and gum disease.

3. Use mouthwash: Mouthwash can help kill bacteria, freshen your breath, and reduce plaque buildup.

4. Limit sugary and acidic foods: Foods and drinks high in sugar and acid can erode your tooth enamel and lead to cavities. Try to limit your intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks, and brush your teeth or rinse your mouth out with water immediately after consuming them.

5. Visit your dentist regularly: Regular dental check-ups are important to catch any issues early on and prevent serious problems from developing. Your dentist will also be able to give you personalized advice for maintaining good oral health.

By following these simple tips, you can help keep your teeth and gums healthy and maintain a beautiful smile for years to come. If you have any concerns or questions about your oral health, be sure to consult your dentist.

Monday, December 5, 2022

Common questions about dental insurance

Understanding what’s covered by your dental insurance is an important part of making sure you get the best oral care possible.

Here are some common questions that arise when people want to understand their cover better.

– If treatment my dentist recommends is not covered by my insurance, does that mean it’s not necessary?

Some plans make exclusions such as sealants, pre-existing conditions, adult orthodontics, and specialist referrals. This depends on your dental plan and you should not let the level of cover determine whether you need treatment.

– My dental benefit will only pay for a large filling but my dentist recommends I get a crown. Which should I choose?

Some plans will only cover the least expensive solution but it may not be the best option for your needs. You should decide based on your health needs and not on your insurance cover.

– My dental plan says it will pay 100 percent for checkups and cleanings but the insurance company says I owe for part of the dentist’s charge. How can this be?

Some plans provide cover based on a “customary fee” for each procedure. So, if your dentist’s fee is higher, your benefit will be based on a percentage of the customary fee instead of your dentist’s fee. Although these limits are called “customary,” they may not accurately reflect the fees that dentists charge in your area.

– Will my plan cover the care my family will need?
If your employer offers more than one plan, check the exclusions and limitations of the coverage as well as looking at the general benefits. It’s a good idea to discuss your family’s likely needs with your dentist before choosing a plan.

The plan document should specify who is eligible for coverage under the plan.

Plans offered by the same provider or employer can vary according to the contracts involved so your dentist will not be able to answer specific questions about your benefit or predict what the coverage for a particular procedure will be.

If you have specific questions about coverage, talk to your plan provider.

Thursday, November 17, 2022

Why its not inevitable that youll lose your teeth as you get older

Advancements in dental techniques and the increased focus on preventive dentistry means older adults are keeping their natural teeth longer than ever before.

A survey by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research showed that the rate of toothlessness in the 55 to 64 age group has dropped 60 percent since 1960.

Whatever your age, its important to practice good oral hygiene at home and to visit your dentist regularly. A few simple steps can help you maintain good oral health throughout your life.

Plaque, the sticky, colorless layer of bacteria that causes tooth decay and gum disease, can build up quickly on the teeth of older adults, particularly when they neglect oral hygiene. This can increase the risk for tooth decay and periodontal disease.

So its important to brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental cleaners.

Regular dental checkups are also an important part of caring for your teeth.

This can help you save your teeth and gums and prevent other dental problems. It will save you time and money in the long-run as well.

Wednesday, November 9, 2022

Root canal treatment

Root canal therapy is an important treatment that can save a tooth with a diseased nerve and which in the past would probably have needed to be removed.

Inside each tooth is the ‘pulp’ which runs like a thread down through the root and provides nutrients and nerves to the tooth. It is the soft tissue that contains nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue.

If the pulp is diseased or injured, the pulp tissue dies.

The most common cause of pulp death is a cracked tooth or a deep cavity. Both of these problems can let bacteria enter the pulp.

So, if you don’t remove it, your tooth gets infected and you could lose it.

After the dentist – or endodontist (a dentist who specializes in problems of the pulp) – removes the pulp, the root canal is cleaned and sealed off to protect it. Then your dentist places a crown over the tooth to help make it stronger.

Most of the time, a root canal is a relatively simple procedure involving one to three visits with little or no discomfort.

Your restored tooth could last a lifetime, if you continue to care for your teeth and gums and enjoy regular checkups.

Tuesday, September 6, 2022

How scaling and planing can help clean your teeth properly

 Dental plaque is a film that builds up on your teeth and, if it is not removed through good oral hygiene, it can lead to tooth decay and gum problems.

Over time it can ultimately form a hard, rough sediment known as dental tartar or calculus, which attracts further plaque buildup.

Calculus has to be removed by a trained professional such as a hygienist or dentist.

They may do this by manual tooth scaling or using an ultrasonic device.

If the buildup is light or moderate, the dentist or hygienist may use manual scaling instruments of various shapes and sizes.

If the buildup of tartar and stains is heavy, an ultrasonic cleaner may be used. This may be followed by hand scaling.

Build up of plaque can cause inflammation of the gums leading to breakdown of the connection between the teeth and the supporting structures.

Root planing is a procedure to treat gum disease by thoroughly scaling the roots of teeth to establish a smooth, calculus-free surface.

This treatment may require local anesthesia to prevent pain. Thorough periodontal scaling customarily involves several dental visits

If conditions are more advanced, surgery may be needed for complete debridement of the roots to arrest the disease process.

Some people tend to have more buildup of calculus than others and some may be more prone to periodontal inflammation or the development of tooth decay.

It’s therefore important to follow your hygienist’s advice on how often to return for regular cleanings – even if your insurance only covers two a year.

Tuesday, August 30, 2022

How sedation and general anesthesia can make your visit to the dentist easier

While local anesthetics are often used in dental treatment, there is sometimes a need for anti-anxiety agents – such as nitrous oxide – or sedatives to help people relax during dental visits.

Dentists may use these agents to induce “minimal or moderate sedation”.

In this case, the patient reaches a relaxed state during treatment but can respond to speech or touch.

Sedatives can be administered before, during or after dental procedures by mouth, inhalation or injection.

More complex treatments may require drugs that can induce “deep sedation”.

This reduces consciousness and causes a loss of feeling which helps to reduce both pain and anxiety.

Sometimes patients undergo “general anesthesia” where the drugs lead to a temporary loss of consciousness.

A dentist may recommend deep sedation or general anesthesia for certain procedures with children or with adults who have severe anxiety or for people who have difficulty controlling their movements.

While these techniques to control pain and anxiety are used to treat tens of millions of patients safely every year, its important that you let your dentist know anything that might affect your ability to benefit from them for example, tell them about any illnesses or health conditions, whether you are taking any medications and if you’ve had any problems with allergic reactions to medications.