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ROBERT THEIN,
DDS, ABOI, ICOI

Gums Won’t Get Numb at the Dentist? Sedation Can Change That

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My 20 year old daughter had a dental appointment last week. Days before the appointment, she kept saying that she was not looking forward to it, and she started looking a bit pale. This is because there is always a problem getting her gums numb, and we have to keep re-scheduling appointments. I am wondering if we need to switch to another dentist. She doesn’t like needles anyway but the dentist keeps giving her shot after shot and it doesn’t work. What do you suggest? – Yvette

Yvette – Your daughter’s comments about not looking forward to her dental appointment, along with the fact that she isn’t getting numb, suggest that she has dental anxiety.

If a patient isn’t able to relax, the level of anxiety and adrenaline flow prevents the local anesthetic from working. A dentist who offers sedation will determine which level is best based on your daughter’s anxiety level and the dental treatment required. A relaxed state calms the nervous system so that local anesthetic can be effective.

Levels of Sedation Dentistry

Nitrous – A sedation dentist can use nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help your daughter relax. She will be awake, but relaxed enough for the anesthetic to work. Nitrous oxide provides a sense of well-being and is quickly reversed after the procedure.

Picture of a young woman relaxing in a hammock on the beach, as an example of how relaxing sedation dentistry can be from Glendale, CA dentist Dr. Thein.
Sedation dentistry makes appointments relaxing

Oral conscious sedation – This moderate level of sedation works well for patients who are especially anxious. It also works well for lengthy procedures. Just before her appointment, your daughter will take a small amount of oral medication commonly prescribed to relieve anxiety. She will be conscious and her vital signs will be monitored. But she will be so relaxed during the appointment that she is likely not to remember it. Arrange for transportation to and from the dental appointment, because she will be drowsy.

IV sedation – IV sedation is the highest level of treatment. Its effects are rapid because it is administered intravenously. It causes drowsiness, so patients need transportation to and from their dental appointment.

Catering to Anxious Patients

In addition to providing sedation, some dentists cater to anxious patients by practicing gentle dentistry and making the effort to adjust treatment techniques to ensure the each patient’s comfort.

If your daughter’s dentist doesn’t offer sedation dentistry, you can search for a dentist who is able to help her relax and get the care she needs.

This post is sponsored by Glendale, CA dentist Dr. Robert Thein.

Dental Anxiety is Costing Me Teeth

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I’ve been an idiot and I know it. I’ve been avoiding the dentist for years because I know it’s going to hurt. Now, though, I’m losing my teeth. I can’t live like this anymore and I need to take steps to get back on track. What do you recommend?

Alan

Dear Alan,

Woman asleep in the dental chair

Dental Sedation Has Changed Lives

You are not alone. So many people have suffered from dental anxiety. Don’t beat yourself up too much. The important thing is that you are taking steps to make things right now. For people with severe dental anxiety, such as yourself, I always recommend dental sedation to get your oral health back on track.

With sedation, you’ll finally have stress-free, pain-free appointments. Because of the amount of work you probably need to be done and the level of anxiety you’ve been dealing with, I’m recommending oral conscious sedation for you.

This is a simple pill you’ll take which completely relaxes you. However, you will be so relaxed, you’ll need someone to drive you to and from your appointment. You’ll also need someone to stay with your until you are lucid. You will be unsteady on your feet. Most people sleep it off or just do a Netflix binge.

Another benefit to sedation is the amount of work you can get done. Because you are relaxed (and very likely asleep) the dentist is able to accomplish much more work at each appointment. This will get you back on track more quickly.

Replacing Your Teeth

Dental Implant Diagram

There is a significant chance you have gum disease. I don’t know if your tooth loss is from significant decay or advanced gum disease, but they generally go hand in hand. The best tooth replacement options will require you have your gum disease under control. Once that’s settled you can look into dental implants.

These place a prosthetic root into your jawbone. After healing time, you’ll be provided with porcelain crowns that will restore the appearance of your teeth. These are like having your own healthy, natural teeth back.

This blog is brought to you by Glendale, CA Implant Dentist Dr. Robert Thein.