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Anxiety-Free Dentistry

The dental profession has made great strides in making dental procedures as comfortable as possible. However, fear and anxiety remain a major concern for many. It is estimated that as many as forty million Americans avoid voluntarily seeking dental care due to these concerns.

Fortunately in Dr. Suarez’s office, we understand how fearful dentistry can be for many people of all ages. Medications are available which can be administered to alleviate most patients' fears, allowing them to successfully and pleasantly undergo treatment.

The three major routes by which these medications are administered in our office are: oral medications, inhalation analgesia, and intravenous sedation. Not only are they different in the administration, but also in their level of anxiety and pain control.

Oral medications are prescribed that the patient will take prior to coming to our dental office for treatment. These medications include sedatives (sleeping pills) and are often combined with the administration of inhalation analgesia (nitrous oxide). The result is that the patient is very relaxed and generally not aware of the treatment being provided. Since the patient is more sedated, someone must bring them to the office, drive them home, and stay with them for the rest of the day. This is ideal for longer, more invasive procedures, and for patients who would rather not be aware of the dental treatment being provided.
Beyond the Expected

Inhalation analgesia (Nitrous Oxide, Laughing Gas) makes the patient more relaxed, however, still fully aware of their surroundings and procedures. Since the sedative effects of nitrous oxide are immediately reversible, this is an excellent choice for apprehensive patients who need to drive themselves home after dental treatment. Also, it is ideal for shorter, less invasive procedures.

Intravenous sedation (conscious sedation) is administered in our office, making the patient extremely relaxed and unconcerned about what is going on around them. The patient is able to respond to verbal commands and breathe without assistance, however the major benefit for the patient is that they are unaware of the dental treatment being provided. Obviously, a responsible person is needed to drive the patient to our office, take the patient home and be with the patient following the procedure for the remainder of the day. Typically, IV sedation is recommended for more extensive procedures, such as the surgical removal of wisdom teeth. It is the most effective method of gaining predictable and adequate sedation in nearly all patients.

Dr. Suarez has had advanced training in the various sedation techniques. Prior to treatment, he will discuss your particular needs and make suggestions during an evaluation. At that time Dr. Suarez will also assess your overall health. If necessary, a consultation with your physician may also be required.

So if you, or someone you know, is apprehensive about having dental treatment, call our office at 626.919.4337 to schedule a complimentary consultation. In the office of Dr. Ricardo Suarez, dentistry can now be anxiety-free.
100 S. Vincent Ave. Suite 404 West Covina, Ca 91790 - Call Us Today at (626) 919-4337