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Are You Anxious Of Going To The Dentist? Try Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry in NW Calgary has become one of the commonest procedures done in the past few years, making it easier for people to overcome their dental anxiety and have their dental problems sorted out via the various methods of dental sedation available in today’s dental practice. The administration of sedative drugs and other forms of medicine to reduce discomfort and anxiety for those who fear the dentist before dental procedures are the hallmarks of sedation dentistry. If you want to go for a dental procedure such as removing a tooth or fixing veneers and you are already having second thoughts about it, this blog will help you understand how you can overcome your anxiety.

Who Needs Sedation Dentistry?

Different reasons abound for patients who want to consider sedation dentistry. Also, sedation could be a recommendation of the dentist or dental surgeon, which would help their patients go through the procedure with minimal discomfort. Some of the different reasons include the following:
  • Phobia related to dental procedures
  • Previous uncomfortable or bad experiences with a dental procedure
  • Sensitive oral nerves
  • Having a small mouth that becomes sore during dental procedures
  • Being resistant to local anesthetic agents
  • Having a general anxiety disorder
You can ask your dentist about sedation dentistry if you have one of the reasons listed above. Our Dentists in Calgary can help you answer questions on oral sedation dentistry in Calgary. Dental sedation can help you get through dental procedures like root canals, tooth extractions, dental implantation, etc.

Sedation Dentistry: How It Works.

Several different methods are used for dental sedation, with each having a different purpose, and based on certain factors, your dentist will choose the most appropriate one for your procedure. Some of these factors include:
  • The dental procedure being performed
  • Duration of the dental procedure
  • Your level of anxiety.
Dentists in Calgary may then choose any one of the following forms of sedation: Minimal sedation, wherein patients are awake but in a relaxed state. Moderate sedation, wherein patients are conscious but may experience slurring of speech and slight memory loss. Deep sedation, wherein patients are on the verge of unconsciousness but can still communicate. General anesthesia, wherein patients are completely unconscious.

Types Of Dental Sedation

Nitrous Oxide: The commonest form of sedation used for dental visits. Also known as “laughing gas”, it is a low-risk treatment and is always provided in most dental offices. Dentists often will administer nitrous oxide and local anesthesia during tooth extractions or fillings to reduce discomfort. Oral Sedation: This refers to swallowing a sedative in either pill or liquid form and could be combined with nitrous oxide wherein you would still be awake, but it may be heavier sedation than solely using nitrous oxide. Intravenous IV) Sedation: It is another standard method of treatment that is delivered directly to the bloodstream through a needle. Intravenous sedation takes effect quickly, and it has an advantage being that your dentist can control the dose. General Anesthesia: General anesthesia is a deeper level of sedation used during surgical procedures such as wisdom teeth extraction or jaw surgery. Like intravenous sedation, it is delivered directly to the bloodstream through a needle or inhaled.

Is Dental Sedation Safe?

Even as you may be nervous about your dental treatment, it is also not out of place if you are also worried about the safety of the sedation to be used for your dental procedure. Fortunately, there are minimal risks involved with the dental sedation methods described here, and your dentist will take several precautions to keep you safe during sedation. You’ll be asked about any medications you’re taking, and you may be advised to stop taking them for a certain time before your treatment. You will be monitored during your treatment in case your breathing slows and you need to be given oxygen. Dental sedation is not safe for pregnant women, and breastfeeding should be avoided for 12 hours after sedation. Safe Oral sedation dentistry in Calgary, for any dental procedure you need, is guaranteed when you visit our dentists in Calgary or any Board-certified dentist near you.

Tooth Extraction: Is it a Necessary Procedure or Can It Be Avoided?

Pulling of the teeth is a necessary procedure in childhood because it is often done to remove primary teeth and pave way for the permanent ones. However, in adulthood, tooth extraction is done when the teeth cannot be saved using other procedures. Our primary goal is to preserve your teeth and dental health, and our dentist only recommends tooth extraction in NW Calgary when it is needed.

When is Extraction Unavoidable?

Although pulling of the teeth is a routine procedure, you should only get tooth extraction near you in the following situations:
  • Impacted teeth. The most affected teeth are the wisdom teeth because they come out after the jaw has attained maturity and there is no space for the teeth to fit. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain and also affect the surrounding teeth.
  • Periodontal disease. Advanced gum disease causes the gums to recede and expose the roots. This not only causes tooth sensitivity but also damages the supporting bone. The dentist can recommend teeth extraction (if there is severe damage) as part of your periodontal dental disease.
  • Severely damaged teeth. Your teeth can get damaged because of decay, cavities, or fracture. While the dentist will first consider other treatments, tooth extraction may be inevitable if the teeth are beyond repair.

What Can You Expect During the Extraction?

Tooth extraction can either be simple or surgical depending on the location of the teeth. For visible teeth, the dentist will perform a simple extraction. This procedure involves loosening the teeth using forceps and pulling them, and the procedure may last for 30 minutes. A surgical extraction is reserved for impacted teeth that lie beneath the gums. The procedure lasts a few minutes longer because the dentist will have to open the gums to access the teeth. Sometimes, the teeth are broken down into little pieces for easy extraction.

What Happens After the Teeth Are Pulled?

Pain, gum bleeding, and soreness are the most common problems that will occur after the extraction procedure. 24 hours after the teeth are pulled, a blood clot will form in the socket to facilitate healing. It is paramount for you to protect the blood clot from breaking because it can slow down healing and cause other problems as well. If you accidentally break the blood clot, visit a dentist near you for immediate treatment. Healing will differ depending on the type of extraction that was done. A simple extraction can take a few days, while surgical extraction will take about two weeks. However, how you take care of the gums will influence the healing process.
  • Bite a gauze pad to stop bleeding
  • Use a cold compress on the affected gums to stop swelling
  • Eat soft and easy to chew foods to avoid hurting the gums
  • Use warm salt water to rinse your mouth because it helps to soothe gums and ease pain
  • Do not use a straw to drink as it may dislodge the blood clot

How Can You Prevent Extraction?

Tooth extraction is a preventable procedure and you can avoid it with these tips:
  • Maintain proper dental hygiene to prevent decay and gum disease.
  • Visit the dentist regularly for an assessment and cleaning as this is the best way for the dentist to detect any dental problem.
  • Get scaling and root planning, which is the primary treatment of gum disease and it prevents further spread of the infection.
  • Consider root canal if the decay extends to the inner part of the teeth. This procedure helps to stop the spread of infection and preserve your teeth.
  • Get a mouthguard if you suffer from bruxism or teeth grinding. Bruxism puts pressure on your teeth and promotes wear and tear.

What Can You Do After the Teeth Are Pulled?

Tooth extraction leaves gaps in between the gums. This not only causes the teeth to shift to the nearby spaces but also affects the supporting bone. You may need restorative dental procedures like implants, dentures, and bridges to replace the missing teeth.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Toothworks for more information on tooth extraction, how it is done, and how you can avoid it.

Invisalign Treatment and Aftercare Tips

When individuals perform self-diagnosis and try self-treatment, there is always room for error. Some people view using clear braces as their most cost-effective way to correct minor smile defects and order braces online. However, when you visit our dentist in NA, Calgary, for a consultation or because of teeth misalignment issues, you may find that other restorative services such as Invisalign will achieve your goals faster. If you seek orthodontic treatment from a dentist near you, there are options for straightening teeth that do not require metal braces. Invisalign in NW Calgary is an orthodontic treatment that can align teeth correctly without using metal braces. Invisalign uses a clear aligner created from an image generated by a computer model and the impression that our dentist and his team get from your mouth to change the position of bad teeth. While traditional braces use fixed wires to straighten the teeth, Invisalign uses a series of customized, transparent plastic straighteners to straighten the teeth. After a few months, you can move the teeth to a new and comfortable position. Invisalign adopts a series of calibrator trays that are replaced every one to two weeks. The design of each replacement tray keeps the teeth changing and moving, so the feeling will be slightly different. You need to wear the Invisalign tray for most of the day to experience the effect. However, they can be easily removed for eating, brushing, flossing, or using on special occasions.

Who Needs Invisalign?

For adults and teens with chipped teeth, uncomfortable bites, and crowded and crooked teeth are just some of the problems that our Invisalign can correct. In addition to being unsightly, these problems can also affect dental health. Teeth cracks leave the gums unprotected and may cause periodontal disease. Uncomfortable bites can put pressure on the jaws and sometimes cause joint pain. Overcrowded teeth often cause plaque to accumulate because it is difficult to effectively floss, and this causes tooth decay in these crowded areas. At Toothworks dental, our Invisalign solves all these problems.

Getting started

Once you are sure that you are interested in Invisalign, you will have an initial consultation where you will meet with your dentist. You will have a conversation with your dentist about the Invisalign process, including how Invisalign works and your estimated cost. As part of the consultation, once you decide to continue treatment, you may receive an X-ray. Our dentist will X-ray and take pictures of your mouth, teeth, and face from different angles so that the dentist has a detailed understanding of your mouth as the basis for their dental work and be able to create customized braces for you. Patients may need to apply small composite patches on each tooth to help the Invisalign aligner grasp and shift each tooth. The patch is made of the composite material used in the filling and can be easily removed at the end of the Invisalign operation without discomfort. If necessary, the patient may also need to reduce the distance between the proximal ends when the patient’s mouth is crowded. Performing this procedure can create more space between the teeth. Our dentist in Calvary will use discs to remove the tooth enamel to create more flexibility.

Initial Fitting

At the time of the visit, you will get a composite patch and proximal reduction (if needed), and you will also have the first impression of Invisalign braces. When putting on the aligners for the first time, they should be held tightly. Our dentists will check the fit and possibly different molds until you are satisfied with the results. Dental practitioners will ask you how you feel, how uncomfortable you are, and whether you can feel any movement.

After Treatment care

You will need to clean the tray regularly, morning and evening. You can do this before or after brushing your teeth. The tray needs to be cleaned to remove the bacteria produced during the day or night. If you don’t clean the trays well, they will start to smell. You can clean them with a toothbrush, but don’t use toothpaste. You should also rinse the tray during the day and when you remove it after each meal. With the powerful technology of the Invisalign aligner in Calgary and the experience of our dentists, your new smile will gain the expertise it deserves. Make an appointment with our dentist in NW, Calgary now to learn more.

In-Office Teeth Whitening Excellent to Reinvigorate Your Smile

Are you analyzing teeth whitening treatments to help reinvigorate your smile tainted by discoloration? Professional in-office teeth whitening treatments from the dentist T3R 0R5 are popular cosmetic dental procedures in Canada currently. Unlike home-use systems incorporating low-dose bleaching ingredients, in-office whitening treatments are performed under carefully monitored conditions allowing for safe and pain-free use of higher concentrations of bleaching gel, yielding results visible instantly. In-office teeth whitening treatments, despite their excellence, are expensive and may encourage you to try over-the-counter systems designed for home use. However, it helps if you understand stains on your teeth are best removed by a professional who determines the kind of staining affecting you by evaluating your dental health.

Are You a Candidate for In-Office Whitening Treatments?

Your candidature for teeth whitening treatments with the dentist in northwest Calgary is determined by the professional after evaluating your mouth. If you are a victim of tooth and gum hypersensitivity, the dentist will likely recommend take-home bleaching trays with carbamide peroxide at low doses not as potent as hydrogen peroxide. Some kinds of stains are resistant to highly concentrated in-office bleaching ingredients. In such cases, the dentist recommends a supervised routine of intensive at-home bleaching or alternatives like bonding, crowns, or veneers. If your teeth have become transparent with age, you are not a suitable candidate for in-office teeth whitening. The dentist assesses your teeth to determine your candidature before confirming your suitability for the treatment.

Starting The Teeth Whitening Treatment

Before starting the in-office teeth whitening treatment, Calgary dentists NW give you a cleaning to remove plaque and debris accumulated on the surface and between your teeth. A dental exam is also performed, checking for potential problems like severe tooth decay, gum disease, and cracks. The bleaching ingredients cause varying degrees of irritation if you have any of these conditions. The dentists will likely delay the treatment until the problems are treated. The dentists take images of your teeth to measure their color on a shade guide. The photos provide a benchmark to assess your progress.

The In-Office Teeth Whitening Procedure

Relatively standard routines are followed by teeth whitening in NW Calgary when whitening your teeth. The steps involved are not uncomfortable or painful.
  • You have a cheek retractor inserted into your mouth, exposing the aesthetic zone.
  • Your gums are painted with a liquid rubber dam or hardening resin to protect against irritation from the bleaching gel.
  • The bleaching gel consisting of hydrogen peroxide is applied to the aesthetic zone and left in place for about 15 minutes.
  • The bleaching gel is washed off for a new application for additional periods of 15 minutes.
  • Some teeth whitening treatments incorporate ultraviolet light focused on your teeth to activate the bleaching process. However, no evidence is available to prove the light improves the bleaching outcome.
  • Your teeth are checked between gel applications to determine how they have whitened and whether further bleaching is required.
After the eventual gel application, the cheek retractors are removed, and you receive instructions to rinse your mouth. The dentist measures the post-treatment shade, which may be as low as 2 to 3 or eight shades out of 16. The bleaching process dehydrates your teeth resulting in whitening, making them look whiter than there were earlier. If the results are unsatisfactory, the dentist will likely recommend follow-ups with in-office bleaching at a later date or a regimen of at-home bleaching trays.

Benefits of in-Office Teeth Whitening

In-Office teeth whitening treatments deliver fast results providing the safest form of bleaching. Tooth sensitivity and gum irritation are now more controllable because of the thicker peroxide gels and using de-sensitizers like potassium nitrate and fluoride.

Downsides of in-Office Teeth Whitening

The most significant downside of in-office teeth whitening is the higher prices charged than take-home alternatives. In-office teeth whitening prices are around $ 650 per session compared to below $ 100 for over-the-counter bleaching trays or strips. Take-home bleaching trays cost about $ 400. In-office bleaching treatments are unpredictable and depend on various factors like age, the kind of staining affecting the teeth, and heredity. Furthermore, in-office teeth whitening is not permanent, and your teeth start accumulating stains shortly after the treatment. Therefore many dentists recommend at-home maintenance of the teeth whitening results using low dose bleaching gel kept on the teeth for longer durations. If you want to maintain the results of teeth whitening, limiting staining foods and beverages is the best option besides quitting smoking. Therefore, you must avoid staining your teeth by maintaining excellent dental hygiene and using the self-care tips mentioned to have a brighter and whiter smile longer.

Types and Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry

It is recommended that you visit a dentist’s office at least twice a year for cleanings and evaluation of your oral health. Your dentist will not only address problems affecting your dental health but will ensure you are proud of your smile. Cosmetic dentistry aims at improving the bite and the appearance of your smile. Cosmetic dentistry involves procedures to enhance the appearance of your teeth and mouth. It enables you to maintain proper hygiene practices. Cosmetic dentistry procedures may provide solutions to oral issues such as stain removal, fixing teeth cracks, and restoring minor chips

Types of Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry involves various dental procedures to enhance the aesthetics of the teeth. Below are types of cosmetic dentistry procedures:
    • Teeth whitening
This procedure helps whiten and brighten your teeth from discoloration or staining. It involves thorough cleaning to eliminate tartar, plaque, and food deposits from teeth surfaces. Teeth whitening can be done through home-based practices or through your dentist.
    • Dental bonding
This procedure involves the use of a putty-like resin substance, applied and hardened with laser or ultraviolet to resemble other teeth. Dental bonding helps repair broken, chipped, or stained teeth.
    • Cosmetic dental implants
These are metal devices created to replace missing or lost teeth. Dental implants get surgically placed in the jaw bone to act as tooth roots. They may also support artificial teeth such as a denture, bridge, or crown.
    • Dental veneers
These are thin custom-made shells designed from porcelain or composite material to cover the front teeth. Dental veneers are used to treat dental problems such as discolored teeth, chipped teeth, or cover gaps between the teeth.
    • Dental crowns
Crowns are custom-made caps placed over damaged or missing teeth. Tooth crowns are used to restore the size, shape, and strength of the teeth improving their function and appearance.
    • Cosmetic teeth shaping
This procedure involves reshaping the teeth by filling or removing small amounts of tooth enamel. Teeth shaping is a painless procedure that aims to improve your appearance and oral health.
    • Orthodontic treatment
This procedure involves straightening or repositioning teeth to improve their appearance and function. To get the most from cosmetic dentistry, you should ensure you adhere to proper oral hygiene habits at home, such as:
  • Brushing regularly – It is recommended you brush your teeth twice a day to prevent food particles from accumulating beneath your teeth.
  • Avoid starches and sugary foods
  • Use a paste with fluoride when brushing your teeth
  • Avoid smoking
  • Visit a dentist regularly

Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry

Ideal oral health is an essential aspect of living a longer and healthier life. Cosmetic dentistry procedures may help give solutions to oral problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. You should visit a dental clinic immediately you experience these symptoms:
  • Loose teeth
  • Bleeding gums after brushing your teeth
  • Chronic bad breath
  • Frequent dry mouth
  • Mouth sores that take long to heal
  • Tooth decay
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Sudden sensitivity to hot or cold beverages
Cosmetic dentistry aims at improving your oral function as well as the appearance of your teeth. Visit our NW Calgary dentist to enjoy the following benefits of cosmetic dentistry:
    • Improved dental health
Cosmetic dentistry protects your teeth from future dental issues. It helps treat oral problems such as cavities and gum disease, which may be life-threatening. Cosmetic dentistry and regular dental checkups, and proper hygiene habits improve your oral health and overall well-being.
    • Improved appearance
Straight and well-positioned teeth give you a healthy smile as well as raising your confidence. Missing teeth may cause a change in the shape of the jaws leading to saggy cheeks. Cosmetic dentistry help solve dental issues, improving your physical appearance.
    • Improved oral function
Dental problems such as misaligned teeth may cause stress on jaw muscles, making them work harder than they should. Cosmetic dentistry ensures properly aligned teeth to enhance your bite and chewing abilities.
    • Better self-esteem
A bright smile will make you proud and will boost your confidence when interacting with people. A healthy smile is not only an indication of good oral health but also your overall well-being. Are you from around Calgary and have been considering getting a cosmetic dentistry procedure near you? Visit Toothworks Dental Clinic to regain a healthy smile. Our Calgary dentists in NW will examine and help you determine the perfect cosmetic procedure for you.

What You Need to Know About Dental Crowns and Bridges

Crown and bridges are popular treatments in restorative dentistry. Dentists use these dental devices to improve the appearance and functioning of damaged teeth.

What Are Dental Crowns?

Crowns are used in several instances. Mostly, they cover chipped, broken and teeth that are damaged by the effects of dental decay. They can also be used aesthetically if you do not feel confident about your smile. Crowns can also be used with dental implants to top the artificial titanium pole. The dentist in Northwest Calgary also uses dental crowns after root canal therapy to reinforce the tooth, protecting it from further damage.

Types of Crowns

There are three main types of crowns liable to the material used. The kinds of crown best for you depend on where it’s being placed in the mouth, durability, and appearance. Metal Crowns They are mostly made using gold and other metals used in dentistry, like silver. Metallic crowns have these benefits:
  • String and very long-lasting
  • Involve less tooth removal
  • Metal crowns are more comfortable and less traumatic to the teeth when biting down.
Gold crowns are costly as they are durable and generally provide a wear value. Ceramic Ceramic crowns are porcelain-based. They have high tooth aesthetics as they can be adjusted to match your natural teeth’ color shade. Porcelain crowns are mostly recommended for front teeth. Benefits:
  • Durable and smooth hence comfortable
  • Natural tooth shine hence great aesthetics
Porcelain-fused-to metal Also called PFM crowns, the materials combine the strength of metal and aesthetics of ceramics. The end product is stronger than porcelain and resin crowns but not as sturdy as metal crowns. Benefits
  • Great aesthetics
  • Strong and long-lasting

Benefits of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns at Tooth works dental offer these benefits:
  • Protection and restoration
Dental crowns are the best devices to reinforce a damaged tooth or one at risk for tooth decay. After a root canal treatment, the tooth is left weak and brittle, so it must be protected using a dental crown.
  • Aesthetics
In addition to tooth protection, dental crowns also add aesthetic value to your teeth. They help to restore your teeth’ natural shape and color, and even strength. They are made using solid and good-looking materials, which fixes flawed teeth. Another advantage of crowns is that they can be customized to match the neighboring teeth’ color.
  • Durability
Of most dental restorations, crowns are perceived as the most long-lasting. This is because the materials used to make crowns are strong and of good quality.

What is a Dental Bridge?

The dentist near you uses a dental bridge if you have one or more missing teeth. The bridgework is cemented on the surrounding natural teeth or dental implant posts. The extra crown wings are anchors to the false middle tooth that rests on the missing tooth gap. The artificial tooth is called a pontic, while the supporting crowns are abutments.

Types of Dental Bridges

There are three main types of dental bridges, namely:
  • Traditional Bridge
It’s the conventional type of bridge where the pontic is held between two abutment teeth that; attached to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. They are also called fixed bridges and are used when one or more teeth are missing.
  • Cantilever Bridges
Cantilever bridges are used when the supporting tooth is only on one side of the missing tooth gap. During the procedure, the false toot I anchored on one side of the missing gap, where there is a healthy natural tooth.
  • Maryland Bridges
This bridge uses a metal or porcelain framework and bonds the frame to the back of the adjacent supporting teeth, different from cantilever and traditional bridges.
  • Composite bridges
They are used when there are no large fillings on the abutment teeth. It’s mainly used for front missing teeth and involves anchoring the false teeth on only one side of one or more adjacent teeth.

Benefits of Bridges

  • Durability
Like dental crowns, bridge materials are pretty durable.
  • Aesthetics
This among the top benefits of bridges is you can recover the tooth functionality and appearance.
  • Biteforce distribution
Dental crowns and bridges near you help to distribute the bite pressure while eating.
  • Functional restoration
Tooth gaps affect your chewing as well as speech. Using a dental bridge restores these functions so you can speak and eat normally.

Care

Care for your crowns and bridges is easy. You have to ensure that you don’t bite on hard substances and foods to void cracking your dental devices. Also, maintain healthy oral hygiene through brushing and flossing every day. Ensure you regularly go for dental checkups to the dentist near you to check for any problems with your crown or bridge.

Understanding Sedation Dentistry in Details

Dental fear is a condition that exists in many dental patients as they sit or wait to sit on a dentist’s chair. Sedation dentistry can help you overcome your feelings of anxiety and fear. If you come from Calgary and happen to be among persons who experience fear or anxiety when going for dental procedures, Toothworks is a dental clinic you can visit to get sedation dentistry near you.

Definition of Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry is a branch of dentistry that involves the administration of sedatives before and during dental procedures to help patients get comfortable and relaxed during treatments. Dentists in Calgary use sedatives when performing oral care services such as tooth extractions or cosmetic dentistry procedures. Patients who choose to be sedated will have no recollection of the undergone procedure, and neither will they have anxiety or fear in a dental chair.

The Different Types of Dental Sedation

  1. Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, commonly referred to as laughing gas, is ideal for people with dental anxieties when undergoing a moderately painful procedure. This sedation method can also benefit kids who have trouble sitting still in the dentist’s chair. When this form of sedation is chosen, a gas mask is placed over the nose of the patient, and they are instructed to inhale the gas. Nitrous oxide was given the name “laughing gas” because it makes patients giggle. You should note that laughing gas will not put you to sleep. You will, however, feel comfortable throughout the process. Upon completion of your procedure, your dental practitioner will give you a mask containing a hundred percent oxygen. This helps to eliminate nitrous oxide from your system.
  1. Oral Sedation
Pill sedation, or in other words, oral sedation, is one of the three types of sedation used by dental practitioners to keep patients calm during oral procedures. Unlike IV sedation (intravenous sedation) and nitrous oxide, this form of sedatives is taken in pill form hours before the appointment. Oral sedative drugs achieve their effects by reducing activities in the part of your brain that controls fear. Once the effects kick-in, the patient appears more relaxed and in a calm mood, thus allowing the dentist to do what he/she is supposed to effectively. Pros
  • No needles involved – Most people who tend to have fear for a dentist also fear needles. Needles are usually used when IV sedation is being administered. When it comes to this sedation type, all you have to do is take the prescribed sedative orally sometime before the dental appointment.
  • Responsive – All though patients under oral sedation feel drowsy, they tend to be responsive and awake during the treatment process and are thus able to clearly listen and properly respond to the dentist’s instructions.
  • Administered easily – Of the three sedation types available, pill sedation is the one that’s easily administered because all the patient has to do is swallow the pill.
  • Safe – Since the Canadian Dental Association has approved the use of oral sedatives, it is highly unlikely for one to experience any harmful side effects.
  • Amnesia – When a strong dosage is given, the patients will barely remember the dental procedure’s proceeds.
Cons
  • Its effects do not kick in immediately – The effects of nitrous oxide and IV sedation are quickly felt moments after they are administered. This is not the case when it comes to pill sedation, and that is why patients are required to ingest the pill in advance before seeing the dentist.
  • A person under this medication cannot drive themselves to the appointment – Patients under oral sedative drugs are not supposed to drive themselves and are encouraged to find someone who will take them to and from the dentist’s office.
  1. IV Sedation
IV sedation employs the use of IV to safely and effectively administer medications that will heavily sedate the dental patient. It is usually recommended during complex dental procedures such as oral surgery. Throughout this process, the patient is closely and continuously monitored by the team of practitioners. Sometimes, more medication can be administered to restore alertness or reduce the discomfort of the patient. Patients opting for this sedation method are not supposed to eat or drink anything 8 hours prior to the procedure. For more information about sedation dentistry, visit a certified dentist near you.

Reasons When Tooth Extractions Become Necessary

Tooth extractions are dental options recommended by dentists whereby a tooth is removed from its socket. Oral surgeons generally perform tooth extractions. However, general dentists and periodontists also perform extractions as part of their core skills as dental providers. The dentist near you is a highly skilled and experienced professional with adequate knowledge of performing tooth extractions. However, their primary aim is to keep your teeth intact, and tooth extractions are recommended only as a last resort. If you need a tooth removed from the dental alveolus, the dentist near you checks your teeth and gums besides your mouth before performing the procedure. Every effort is made by the professional to ensure they can preserve your tooth, but if the removal is imperative, the dentist ensures the process causes the least discomfort. The extraction site is entirely numbed with local anesthesia before proceeding with the disposal.

Types of Tooth Extractions Performed by Dentists

Dental professionals and oral surgeons perform two types of tooth extractions. They are:
  • Simple Extractions.
Simple extractions are performed on visible teeth in the mouth, and the procedure only requires local anesthesia unless the patient is overly anxious.
  • Surgical Extractions.
Surgical tooth removal is performed on a tooth inaccessible or impacted below the gum line. Surgical extractions are performed by oral surgeons and require incisions to elevate the soft tissues covering the tooth. The dental professional may decide to split the tooth into multiple pieces to facilitate its removal. General anesthesia is required by patients undergoing surgical extractions. Tooth extraction is ordinarily prescribed as a last resort. If you have any apprehensions about the procedure, you can consult tooth extraction in NW Calgary to understand why the dentist recommends tooth removal.

Reasons Why Dentists Recommend Tooth Removal through Extraction

Everyone has two sets of teeth, which are the milk teeth and the permanent teeth. The milk teeth fall off by age six or seven, and the second set of teeth, the permanent teeth replace them. The permanent teeth must last for a lifetime, but in many cases, their removal is recommended by dentists for some reasons mentioned below.

Severe Tooth Decay or Irreparable Damage

When tooth decay penetrates the enamel to reach the center of the tooth, the pulp the bacteria within the pollution causes an infection within the tooth. In such cases, root canal treatments can help preserve the tooth. However, if you have a severe infection and your dentist is unsure of whether they can provide appropriate treatment for your condition, they recommend the removal of the infected tooth.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums, alveolar bone, periodontal ligaments, and other surrounding structures. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of periodontal disease when the condition begins affecting the gums. The severity of periodontal disease attacks the periodontal ligaments and the alveolar bone. Periodontal disease is entirely preventable by maintaining excellent dental hygiene and visiting dentists for routine exams and cleanings. However, when periodontal disease begins loosening the tooth, dentists recommend tooth removal is the best option for the patient’s well-being.

Eliminating Teeth Overcrowding

Many people have the problem of overcrowding in their mouths, leaving them with crooked and misaligned teeth. Treatments for overcrowding are available from orthodontists who often recommend extracting one or several teeth to make space in the mouth for the other teeth to realign. Besides the above, tooth extractions also become necessary for impacted wisdom teeth and after accidents that may have severely fractured or knocked out the tooth altogether. The dentist north-west Calgary makes every effort to preserve your tooth with available options if the tooth is merely fractured, and it is possible for the dentist to restore the same. Even knocked out teeth are reinserted into the alveolar bone if you reach the dentist within 30 minutes. Wisdom teeth, however, do not receive any consideration and are extracted by dentists without hesitation because they are problematic and can leave you with multiple dental issues if left in your mouth. Wisdom teeth do not allow you to clean your mouth appropriately, resulting in a buildup of tooth decay. They are perhaps the only teeth in your mouth that dentists recommend removal with glee, knowing full well they are aware they are preventing unnecessary problems from occurring in your mouth. If you are recommended tooth extraction by dentist Calgary, rest assured sufficient reasons exist behind the suggestion. Dentists consider all options to preserve your tooth (except for wisdom teeth) before suggesting tooth removal as a method of safeguarding your dental health. You may have heard about tooth extractions, but do you know the reasons why dentists recommend them? Learn why dentists recommend this extreme procedure from this blog.

Root Canals Are Not As Fearful As You Think

Has the dentist near you in Calgary mentioned that you need root canal treatment? In that case, rest assured you are not alone. Root canal treatment saves millions of teeth every year. This article explains why you mustn’t fear root canal treatments because they can relieve your tooth pain and preserve your smile.

 

The dentist near you has recommended the procedure because you are either confronting severe pain when chewing or biting, have a chipped or cracked tooth, are affected by lingering sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures even after removing the sensation, or have other issues.

 

Root canal treatments become necessary when the soft tissue inside the root canal becomes infected or inflamed. The infection could have various reasons and may result from deep decay and repeated dental procedures, or cracks or chips in the tooth. The tooth’s pulp can become damaged from any injury despite making visible no chips or cracks.

 

How Can Root Canal Treatment Preserve the Tooth?

 

When undergoing root canal in NW Calgary, the dentists remove the infected or inflamed pulp to clean the canals, shape them inside the root canal before filling and sealing the space. After you have recovered from the procedure, you return to your dentist to have the tooth restored or protected with a dental crown. After placing the restoration, the tooth functions like your other teeth.

 

Root Canal Have a Fearsome Reputation — Why Shouldn’t You Fear It?

 

Modern techniques and anesthesia allow dentists near you in Calgary to comfortably perform root canal procedures to relieve the pain from toothaches because of pulp infection or inflammation. Most patients report they experienced no pain and were entirely comfortable during the process.

 

Any pain you experience is after the procedure is accomplished and occurs during the first few days when your tooth will feel sensitive, mostly if you were in pain earlier. Over the counter pain medications will not relieve the discomfort from the infection but can undoubtedly help you after root canal treatment. However, you must follow your dentist’s instructions carefully, understanding that your tooth will continue to feel different from other teeth for some time after completing the treatment. However, you will receive help from your dentist if you continue experiencing pain or pressure lusting for more than a few days.

 

Will Your Tooth Need Additional Care after Root Canal Treatment?

 

Your dentist advises you not to chew or bite with the treated tooth until your dentist restores it. Your treated tooth is fragile and susceptible to fractures. Therefore you must see your dentist as soon as possible for a comprehensive restoration. Besides this one precaution, you can practice proper oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, regular exams, and cleanings.

 

Most teeth undergoing root canal treatments last for as long as your other natural teeth. Sometimes the tooth does not heal or is still painful. The tooth may become painful months or years after successful treatment. In such cases, the dentist will perform root canal therapy again to preserve your tooth.

 

What Are Your Alternatives against Root Canal Treatment?

 

The only alternative against root canal treatment is tooth extraction, which brings upon you untold hardships requiring tooth replacement solutions and multiple visits to the dentist’s office. Moreover, replacing an extracted tooth is more expensive than undergoing root canal treatment. An artificial tooth is never similar to a natural one, and you must make every effort to ensure you preserve your natural teeth by undergoing root canal treatments if required as recommended by your dentist.

 

Will Your Tooth Discolor after Root Canal Treatment?

 

After root canal treatment, your tooth can at times become slightly discolored and develop spots known as intrinsic stains. This is because the tooth bleeds internally, and the inside of the tooth discolors to yellow or dark. Fortunately, teeth whitening treatments using internal breaching can whiten the tooth to give you back your smile.

Root canal treatments have a fearsome reputation spread by myths surrounding them. The tales began when dental technology or anesthesia wasn’t as advanced as they are in present times. This article should convince you that the treatments are not as fearful as you believe. You can fearlessly undergo root canal therapy, knowing full well that it relieves you from the pain you are experiencing and preserves your natural tooth. You may even have the tooth remain in your mouth for your lifetime.

3 Facts About Sedation Dentistry That You Must Know

Most dental procedures require sedation. If you have undergone any dental procedure, you may have heard of sedation. Sedation dentistry is what makes most dental procedures possible. It calms down patients and enables the dentist to treat them. Sedation has helped many patients achieve optimal oral health. Knowing everything about sedation is important. It helps you know what to expect when you come in for any dental procedure. Having information about sedation will also go a long way in helping you overcome dental anxiety. This article aims at giving you all the important information you need about this dentistry branch.  Read on to find out more.

Sedation Dentistry Explained

This is a dentistry branch that aims at relaxing and calming down patients during dental procedures.  It also gives the dentist an easy time to treat you. Patients with dental anxiety and phobia are able to visit the dentist thanks to sedation dentistry. Without it, patients will skip dental visits. This will lead to poor dental health. Once patients know that sedation will keep them relaxed, they can get over their anxiety. Our NW Calgary dentist will talk to you about sedation when you visit the clinic.  You will be able to come back for your next dental visit without anxiety.

Who Needs Sedation Dentistry?

Patients who experience dental anxiety when in a dental setting require sedation. However, most dental procedures call for sedation even in patients without anxiety. You should talk to a dentist near you about sedation if you have dental anxiety. The dentist will help you get dental care and improve your dental health.

What are The Different Levels of Sedation?

There are four levels of sedation. We use these levels to help patients experience calmness during dental procedures. The four levels are minimal sedation, moderate sedation, deep sedation, and general anesthesia. Minimal Sedation We use this level of sedation for patients with low levels of dental anxiety. Our dentist can administer the sedative through inhalation or orally. You will be relaxed, but you will be awake, and you will be able to respond to physical stimulation. Moderate Sedation Patients with high dental anxiety levels are candidates for this level. You will respond to verbal commands when we use this level of sedation. We also use this level if patients need a lot of dental work. Deep Sedation We rarely use this level of sedation. Those patients with severe dental anxiety qualify for this level of sedation. We will also use deep sedation if the procedure is intense and will take time. You will require assistance to maintain a patent airway at this level. General Anesthesia We only use this level if the patient has severe dental phobia or is undergoing an intense surgery procedure.  In this level, you will be fully unconscious, and arousing you won’t be easy. You will also need help to maintain a patent airway in this level.

Types Of Sedation

There are several types of sedation we can use to calm you down. These are the common types of sedation we use. Inhaled Sedation You will inhale laughing gas with oxygen to help you relax. Talk to a sedation dentist in NW Calgary about this option if you have dental anxiety. The advantage of this option is that you will drive yourself home after the procedure. This is because this type of sedation takes a short time to wear off. IV Sedation In this option, we deliver the sedative through an IV line.  Its effect is quick, and our dentist will be able to moderate the dosage. With IV sedation, you won’t be able to drive yourself home. This because the sedative will take time to wear off. Oral Sedation We use this option to achieve minimal or moderate levels of sedation. For oral sedation, we will give you a pill to take an hour prior to the procedure. Most dental procedures need oral sedation to keep the patient calm and relaxed. General Anesthesia This option renders you completely unconscious.  We use general anesthesia for intense procedures that take time. At times we use both IV and inhaled gases for general anesthesia.