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Sedation Dentistry
Dentistry has advanced to the point in which pain is almost a thing of the past. Powerful
pain-killing medications known as anesthetics not only help a patient avoid discomfort
during a procedure, but post-operatively as well. Some patients, especially children, may
require higher doses of anesthetic than others.
Types of pain-killing medications include:
Analgesics
These are also called pain relievers and include common non-narcotic medications such as
ibuprofen and aspirin. Analgesics are usually used for mild cases of discomfort, and are
typically prescribed following such procedures as a root canal or tooth extraction.
Anesthetics
Anesthetics can either be topically applied, injected or swallowed. Dentists often apply
topical anesthetics with a cotton swab to an area of the mouth where a procedure such as a
restoration will be performed. This numbs the affected area. Topical anesthetics are used
in many dental procedures such as tooth restoration. Topical anesthetics also are used to
prepare an area for injection of an anesthetic. Novocaine and Lidocaine are the most
common kind of injectable anesthetics. Such medications block the nerves from transmitting
signals and are used for more major types of procedures, such as fillings and root canals.
Sedatives
Sedatives are medications designed to help a patient relax. This can be a powerful tool in
avoiding pain. Sedatives are sometimes used in combination with other types of pain
relievers and pain-killers. Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is a form of sedative.
Conscious sedation involves administering a sedative while the patient is alert and awake.
Deep sedation or general anesthesia involves administering a medication that places a
patient in a state of monitored and controlled unconsciousness.
Types of sedatives include:
Intravenous (IV) sedation
Usually in the form of a tranquilizing agent; patients given IV sedation are often awake,
but very relaxed.
Inhalation sedation
A form of sedation in which a medication (such as nitrous oxide) is administered through a
special mask.
Sedation Dentistry - Pain Management
Pain can occur in any number of places in your mouth: teeth, gums, roots, the palate,
tongue and jaw.
Cavities are a common culprit causing pain. Untreated cavities can impact nerves because
of infections of the tooth and gums. Impacted and abscessed teeth and sore jaws from teeth
grinding are other common causes of pain.
Improper bite relationships and jaw disorders can also cause pain. Other sources of pain
include sleep disorders, and headaches and neck aches.
Special splints can sometimes be applied to stabilize a bite. Bites can also be corrected
with special orthodontic procedures, appliances and restoration techniques.
There are many methods for relieving oral pain. They include:
- Ice packs on the affected area.
- Avoiding hard candy or ice.
- Avoiding sleeping on your stomach.
Dentists use a wide array of pain management tools, including:
- Anesthetics such as Novocaine.
- Analgesics such as aspirin or ibuprofen.
- Sedatives, (links to 'Sedation Dentistry' area) including a procedure known as
"conscious sedation" or general sedation (also known as "deep sedation").
- Air Abrasion - A relatively new technique that uses powerful particles of aluminum
oxide to remove debris and decay. The most exciting thing for patients is that air
abrasion is painless and, in some cases, doesn't require an anesthetic.
Some dental procedures, such as tooth extractions and oral surgery, may call for our
office to prescribe medications before or after a procedure. These medications are used to
prevent or fight an infection, or to relieve any post-operative discomfort and pain.
For these reasons, it is extremely important that you share your entire medical history -
including any medications you are currently taking - with our office. Some medications
used in dentistry, and other medical practices - could interact with those medications in
a detrimental way. In addition, if you have any allergic reactions to certain medications,
it is important for our office to know beforehand.
Finally, if you are prescribed any medication by our office, follow the dosage
instructions very carefully, and if instructed, finish your entire prescription even if
you are no longer feeling pain.
Sedation Dentistry - Anxiety Relief
We are sensitive to your fears and anxieties; for your comfort, we offer:
- Nitrous Oxide Analgesia
- Intravenous (IV) Sedation
- Stereo Headphones
- Televisions in each treatment room
Sedation Dentistry - Testimonials
"Dr. Drake, your understanding about your patient (me), who was very worried about
potentially experiencing pain was remarkable. I've been to the best there is over the
years having had a lot of work done and you are as good now as the best of them. I can
only hope that your other patients appreciate you as much as I do. You are going to have a
very successful practice and your partners are very lucky to have you! Thank you so much,
and by the way, your staff rocks!"
Sally D., Daytona Beach, FL
"Dr. Drake is awesome. I'm not a very good dental patient and he really helped ease my
fears of the dentist. I would return to him and recommend people to come to him."
Sal M., Daytona Beach, FL
"Thank you Dr. Drake, if it wasn't for you I wouldn't have a smile, I appreciate your
willingness to work with me. To me this experience was life-changing. I can finally smile
again."
John P., Daytona Beach, FL
"I would like to say that in all my life I have never received care like I have with Dr.
Costello. I have had dentists in the past that were uncaring, insensitive, and so quick to
get me out of the chair and get the money in their pockets, that they failed to do their
job right causing more pain and fear of dental care. Dr. Costello and ALL his staff bring
true meaning to the name 'TOOTH FAIRY'. Thank you to everyone."
Amanda P., Ormond Beach, FL
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