Approaching the Anxious and Fearful Patient

Nitrous oxide has been proven an effective and safe anesthetic used in hospital based procedures but more popular in dental practise. Administered by inhalation, this odorless, tasteless gas has analgesic, anxiolytic, and amnestic properties. It can be considered the right approach for the anxious dental patient.

With various methods and levels of sedation available, nitrous oxide use is a form of conscious sedation. The patient does not fall asleep and can still talk with the dental staff , though he might not remember everything about the procedure done to him.

Some dentists administer IV or IM sedation for deep sedation in which highly fearful patients will benefit in order to have dental work completed. Relaxed patients are less likely to gag or move during procedures. It also becomes easier for the dentist to work.

Nitrous oxide affects the brain by blocking pain-signaling neurons. It also increases the activity of GABA receptors, which leads to decreased anxiety. Also, patients feel content and even euphoric with release of dopamine, a nitrous oxide effect.

However, nitrous oxide effects differ from patient to patient. Some patients feel giddy and even laugh. Others feel relaxed and light-headed. Some patients’ arms and legs feel heavy while others experience tingling in their arms and legs.

The gas is used during basic dental procedures such as dental fillings, occasionally used for routine cleanings for patients with severe dental anxiety. Nitrous oxide isn’t as strong as other sedatives; though not for major surgeries, it is used in hospital settings. It can be initially given to patients in preparation for heavier sedation. It is especially helpful for children and those patients with special needs. Well tolerated, it does not cause allergic reactions and does not have any lingering effects.

There are a few situations contraindicated for nitrous oxide sedation, such as pregnant women in the first trimester, COPD patients and those with upper respiratory tract infections, those with middle ear issues, those with psychological disturbances, and current or recovering drug addicts.

Nitrous oxide is a proven an asset to a dental office. With right usage and precautions, right administration, appropriate candidates and proper consent, it can be considered indispensable in dental practice.

Anxious and Fearful No More in Bellevue

Nitrous oxide can be safely used in both children and adults here at Overlake Dental. If you have such anxieties, you need not worry. Your procedure will be as safe, smooth and anxiety-free. Only in Bellevue.

The Adult Side of Fluoride Benefits

We’ve known always about fluoride’s benefits. Fluoride is the agent that strengthens young developing teeth by fighting decay-causing bacteria and, hence, is mainly for children’s benefit. New research, however, uncovered that topical application of fluoride can fight tooth decay in people of all ages – from children to adults.

If your drinking water is fluoridated, then brushing regularly with fluoride toothpaste is sufficient for most adults with healthy teeth. However, some people with certain conditions may be at increased risk of tooth decay, so additional fluoride treatment can be beneficial.

These adults should have fluoride treatments: Those who suffer from Dry Mouth Syndrome, a condition caused by certain diseases, certain medications (such as allergy medications, antihistamines, antianxiety drugs, and high blood pressure drugs), and those who’ve had head and neck radiation. Their dry mouths, resulting from lack of saliva, make them prone to tooth decay.

Those who have gingivitis and its more severe form, periodontitis, carry the increased risk of attracting bacteria to exposed root surfaces leading to tooth decay. In periodontitis, gums tend to recede and expose the gum line or may create pockets for lodging of bacteria. These situations need fluoride treatments to decrease the chances of attacks and decay.

Those who wear crowns, bridges, or braces create small hiding places where food debris can lodge and form cavities. The appliances also make it harder to keep teeth always clean even with brushing. These adults need regular fluoride exposures.

Fluoride forms are available as fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinses. While over-the-counter products have weaker fluoride content, a dentist’s prescription can get you a stronger one. You can also apply fluoride to the teeth as a gel, foam, or varnish. Your dentist should know just what form is suitable to your needs and just how strong it needs to be for you.

Fluoride for Everyone in Bellevue

Ask your Bellevue dentist about fluoride treatments if you have these conditions – dry mouth, gum disease or are wearing crowns and other dental appliances. You might be just a another regular guy without these setbacks, but you can still benefit from fluoride experience.

Why Olympic Athletes Have More Tooth Decay

Consider Olympic athletes, the superhuman representatives of the sports world, who must have better access to huge health support systems, are actually faring no better than the average American adult in dental care. Many Olympic players have poor oral health. Why so?

A case in point is the 2012 London Olympics, where three-quarters of the athletes have gingivitis. A study was conducted and reported on the impact of of an athlete’s risk factors on his oral health; the results are amazing. A good 30% of athletes had taken facial blows, such as blows to the mouth or jaw. These can result to broken, chipped or cracked teeth, gum and tongue injuries and cracked or dislocated jaws. They are acquired at practice training or during the actual games and dental attention may be nil or not as comprehensive because of the immediate need to compete. Continue reading →

Tips to Keep Your Mouth Healthy While Sick

Did you ever feel slightly better after brushing our teeth in spite of the fact that you’re sick? It can be psychological but it does make you feel like you’re getting well. When you’re down with the flu or a cold, you ought to still maintain your routine oral care. Here are some tips that can help you on your way to wellness, in body and in the mouth.

Practice proper oral hygiene. Keep your mouth covered when you sneeze or cough. And keep your hands clean. You can transfer germs to things and places and people around you. You are certainly not sharing your toothbrush but make sure they are also clean. If the brush is more than 3 months old, it is high time to change it. Of course, continue brushing and flossing, have mouthwashes if need be for they refresh the mouth.

Avoid sugary foods and drinks. Know that sugar clings to teeth and bacteria love to colonize them, leading to decay and cavities. Choose sugar-free cough candies. Don’t keep sweets in your mouth for too long, like sucking on them. Stay away from sodas and acidic juices, like lemon. Plain water is your better and best friend during these times, or have tea without the sugar. Stay hydrated with water as some meds you might be taking are causing dry mouth, a condition that attracts bacterial growth.

Does your illness cause you to vomit? Stomach acids can cling to teeth and weaken your enamel. Do not brush right away. Brushing too soon will just spread the acid all over the tooth surfaces. Instead, take water, swish it around your mouth and spit. Or you can use water with one teaspoon of baking soda and do the same. Baking soda washes away the acid. Then you can brush and floss, 30 minutes later.

Healthy Mouth at all Times

Know more about oral care and oral health from Dr. Yung, your Bellevue dentist. Remember, there is no reason to neglect your dental health even if you’re body is down and sick.

Parents’ Role in Dental Sedation for Children

Is your child up for a surgical procedure at the dentist’s clinic and requiring anesthesia? Your child’s safety and well-being are your topmost concerns. While the dentist can assure you a safe procedure, you can help reduce the risks and the stress for your child before, during and after the treatment.

Firstly, know the sedation options your dentist will use. There are three: oral sedation, nitrous oxide, and intravenous injection. Oral sedation is by mouth or through the nose, taking up to 20 minutes to work. It will not put the child to sleep, but it helps him stay calm and relaxed. Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is delivered by mask and the child relaxes within five minutes and goes to sleep. Intravenous sedation is delivered via a needle inserted into the child’s vein at the back of his hand, though nitrous oxide may be given first to make the patient sleep before the injection.

A few things first before you bring your child to the clinic. Prepare your child for the procedure by restricting his food and liquid intake as sedation poses the risk of vomiting stomach contents or inhaling them into the lungs. Loose-fitting clothes allow attaching of monitors easily and without fuss. Of course, a full dental and medical history of the patient must be disclosed by parents, including any past or current medications. At the dentist’s, blood oxygen level, blood pressure, temperature and heart rate are closely monitored.

You can keep your child calm and preoccupied by bringing along a favorite toy or book, hold his hand or give gentle reassurances. Your attention is fully focused on the child. Especially when he wakes up after the sedation, he sees you first and gets positive reassurances again. He can still be confused or fussy and may feel nauseous. For the first few hours, he may be disoriented or sleepy and definitely need not engage in school or play for the day. Soft foods are recommended for a few days. Any fever, bleeding or pain experiences must be reported to the dentist at once.

Safe and No-Fuss Anesthesia for Kids by Bellevue Dentist

Overlake Dental is your child-friendly dental practice in Bellevue. Our long and esteemed history in pediatric dental treatment centers on the safety and well-being of children in our care. We work hand-in-hand with parents in all facets of dental treatment, especially surgery and sedation for kids.