If you get nervous at just the thought of visiting a dental specialist, you’re not alone. Maybe it’s the memory of a long-ago unpleasant childhood visit, a fear of pain, an inability to sit still for a long period comfortably or just vague nervousness when it comes to associated noises, smells and sounds.
Regardless of the origin or reason for your fears, you also know it’s not healthy to delay or ignore needed dental treatment. So much of today’s research links gum disease to systemic diseases. Given the progressive nature of most dental issues, you understand you really should address your unhealthy mouth, the sooner the better.
Addressing Dental Fears
Your comfort and safety are always our top priorities. For those patients who face extreme fears, we offer several safe sedation options that, in addition to our regular use of local anesthesia, will allow you to receive the care you need and experience a positive, productive visit.
Inhaled (Nitrous Oxide) Minimal Sedation: This tried and true “laughing gas” option helps you relax. You are able to drive yourself home after treatment. It’s a safe and effective means of reducing dental anxieties.
Oral (Conscious Sedation): Typically, a pill taken prior to treatment will make you very drowsy. Some people will actually become so relaxed that they fall asleep but can usually be easily awakened.
IV (Intravenous) Sedation: Considered a more moderate form of sedation, your dentist can adjust the levels. Doctors Norkin and Aranguren are certified to administer mild-to-moderate forms of sedation dentistry right in our office. They continually monitor you to make sure you are comfortable and safe.
Deeper Sedation/General Anesthesia
For patients with medical issues requiring stronger anesthesia, our associate Dr. Gross, a board-certified dental anesthesiologist, provides a deeper level of sedation that can normally be offered right in our office. Like Doctors Norkin and Aranguren, Dr. Gross will continually monitor your blood pressure and heart rate. We are one of a handful of practices in this area that offer this deep sedation option. If you truly need full anesthesia or have other medical conditions that require your treatment to be done in a hospital, Dr. Ganeles has privileges at Boca Raton Regional Medical Center and can arrange treatment in their operating rooms with full anesthesia support.
No matter your situation, we have options to help you experience a safe and very productive treatment. For more information on our sedation options, please call us at 561-912-9993.