Tag Archives: Gilbert Sedation Dentist

Sedation Dentistry

I Got Sick at My Sedation Dentist

I am kind of embarrassed. I think I ruined my dental appointment. I’ve been avoiding the dentist, so he called me to ask what the problem was. I told him I’ve been having some anxiety issues. He suggested sedation dentistry. I agreed and felt pretty comfortable. My appointment was scheduled for two. He told me not to eat. I thought I’d be fine, but around 10 I got super hungry.  I just had a candy bar and was sure it would be out of my tummy by my appointment. But, when I got the sedation, I vomited. I was too embarrassed to tell my dentist I ate. He rescheduled.  Do you think it was the eating or something else?

Loriee E. – Denver

Loriee,

It was likely the sedation that’s a problem. The medicine makes you a little woozy. When you add food to that, you’re just asking to vomit.  Many dentists won’t treat you if they know you’ve eaten because they worry about aspiration.

You’ll like sedation once it’s done with an empty stomach. It will completely change how you feel about dentistry.

If you have a high metabolism and it’s hard for you to go a long time without eating, you may tell them it’s important to schedule you in the morning.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Matt Roper.

Sedation Dentistry

I Need to Find a Dentist Who Is Nice to Anxious Patients

I used to have a great dentist. He was so patient and kind. He knew I am a little anxious about dental work and would slow down when I needed him to and always explained what he was doing.  Well,…he retired. The young fella’ that took over his practice isn’t nearly as patient. In fact, he gets short with me sometimes. He’s made me dread coming.  Is there a way to finding a kind dentist without having to go to a bunch of duds first?

Elizabeth – Denver

Elizabeth.

We’ve always heard that we have to kiss a few frogs before we find our prince. Fortunately, in the dental world, there are some “code words” that can help you narrow down which frogs to try.

Dentists who value and understand anxious patients generally put something on their website to help patients recognize they’ll feel safe in their office.

When you do a web search, use key words such as “Sedation Dentist” “Sedation Dentistry”, “Gentle Dentist”, and “Cater to Cowards Dentist”.

Any one of these dentists are willing to work with anxious patients.  It doesn’t mean all of them will be a great fit for you personally, but you’ll have a much better chance with them.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Matt Roper.

Sedation Dentistry

Is sedation dentistry like having surgery?

I have severe anxiety issues. Is sedation dentistry like having surgery where you’re out?

Drew A. – Missouri

Drew,

It really depends on the dentist. They all have different sedation procedures they prefer to do. Some dentists do an IV Sedation where you are pretty much out during the procedure.

Most do something called oral conscious sedation. Though it doesn’t knock you out, many patients prefer it.  You still have control. If you want to say something, you can, but the appointment is completely pain free.

Most patients find that they don’t even remember the appointment. Plus, you need to be aware that you’re so relaxed you need to have someone drive you to and from the appointment.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Matt Roper.

Sedation Dentistry

Scared of Sedation Because of News Stories

I finally talked myself into going to the dentist by using sedation (It will be my first time in sixteen years) and now I keep seeing all these news stories about patients being sexually assaulted.  Now I’m afraid to go.

Cyndy M. – New Jersey

Cyndy,

I understand you’re frightened. These type of stories are very scary.  Though it may not mean much to you now, I will tell you that these type cases are very rare. Most dentists ( and their staff) went into the field in orderto help people. They have no interest in doing harm.

Sedation is a great way to get your dental care done, pain free, especially  if you have dental anxiety. Generally, dentists have someone else in the room with them during sedation for their own protection. That way they can’t be accused of anything.

However, one thing you can do to put your mind at ease is to bring a friend.  Talk to the dentist about your concern. They’ll likely be able to accomdate your friend to be there with you.

This blog is brought to you by Gilbert Dentist Dr. Matt Roper.

Sedation Dentistry

Why can’t I get numb?

I’ve been to the dentist twice to get a procedure done, but he hasn’t been able to get me numb.  We end up abandoning the procedure.  What’s the deal?

Danny B. – New Jersey

Danny,

It’s possible that you have some form of dental anxiety, even without realizing it.  That can cause your body to burn up the anesthetic before it has a chance to really take effect.

Sometimes using something as simple as nitrous oxide will relax you enough for the numbing medicine to take effect.  If that doesn’t work, you’ll need a stronger type of dental sedation.

I would go to a sedation dentist and let them know what is going on. You will likely have your first completely pain free dental appointment, which should really help with that anxiety.

This blog is brought to you by Gilbert Dentist Dr. Matt Roper.

Sedation Dentistry

Dental procedure for alzheimer patient

My mother has alzheimers. She can be quite difficult at times.  Today she was screaming about her mouth hurting. When I finally got her asleep, I peeked inside her mouth.  There is a huge cavity and what looks like an abscess based on what I infer from the articles I looked up online. I know she needs to see a dentist, but I have no idea how to actually get her to let the dentist treat her.  Are there dentists who specialize in alzheimer patients?

Amy S. – Boston

Amy,

There isn’t a specialization for alzheimer patients, but many dentist have treated them.  If I were in your position, I would go to a dentist who does sedation dentistry.  That can make the appointment trouble free for you, your mother, and the dentist.

There are different levels of sedation. Not all dentists who use sedation use all the types, so you’ll have to call around.  My suggestion would be to find someone who uses oral conscious sedation.  It’s a lot stronger than nitrous oxide.

You’ll give her a pill before her appointment and she’ll be completely relaxed. I mean completely relaxed.  Even people without alzheimers often don’t even remember the procedure.

This blog is brought to you by Gilbert Dentist Dr. Matt Roper.

Sedation Dentistry

Special needs child needs a dentist

I have a son who is special needs-severely special needs.  He will let me touch him and no one else.  Even with me it’s not a guarantee that he’s not going to fly into a panic and disappear into his private world.  I try to help him clean his teeth as best I can, but you can imagine that isn’t easy.  Now I’ve noticed what I think is a cavity starting on one of his teeth. I don’t know what to do and  I don’t think he’ll respond well to a dentist.  I’m desperate. Any advice?

Melissa B. – Conway, AR

Melissa,

You’re in an incredibly difficult situation.  I’m sure you feel stressed all the time, not to mention the pain when you can’t hold your son.  I want to take one worry off your shoulders. There is a way you can get your son the treatment he needs.

I would get a pediatric dentist who is also a sedation dentist. Your son can be given a pill to take before his appointment that will make him oblivious to what is going on around him.  It will completely relax him and they your dentist will be able to do whatever procedure is necessary.

There are other types of sedation too, such as I.V., but a needle might be harder for your son that a pill.  I would schedule an apppointment with the dentist and give him a full picture of what your son is like. Pediatric dentists are generally good with these kinds of situations.

This blog is brought to you by Gilbert Dentist Dr. Matt Roper.

Sedation Dentistry

Will insurance cover sedation dentistry?

I haven’t been to a dentist’s office in a while because of finances.  My husband had been out of work for three years.  He got a new job and they actually have dental insurance. I have some dental anxiety. I’m sure the appointment will be even worse than I remember, becuase of how long I’ve been away.  I don’t see sedation dentists listed.  Does insurance cover sedation dentistry?

Melissa H. – Ft. Worth, TX

Melissa,

Congratulations on your husband’s job!  I know that must be a relief and hopefully take some pressure off of you.  I think the confusion lies in the way you’re looking. There isn’t a sedation dentistry specialist.  In fact, most dentists practice some form of sedation dentistry.

Dental insurance will normally cover the basic procedure.  At least some of the cost for sedation will have to come out of pocket, but it is totally worth it.  Your dentist can help you navigate how to get the most out of your insurance.

You’ll find sedation will allow you to get a lot more work done in each appointment, which will save you money in the long run with fewer appointments.

This blog is brought to you by Gilbert Dentist Dr. Matt Roper.

Sedation Dentistry

Anti-depression medication and sedation dentistry

If I’m on anti-depression medication. Is it still possible for me to use sedation dentistry?

Laura K. –  Lawrence, Kansas

Laura,

It will depend on what type of anti-depression medication you’re on. Some classes of anti-depressants can interact with the sedative agents. If yours doesn’t interfere, then you can continue taking them as normal.

If yours does have some counter indications, you can still have dental sedation, but you may need to stop taking it for a day or two.

Make sure you speak to your dentist before you schedule the procedure. Also, let your dentist know everything else you’re taking including any over-the-counter medication.

This blog is brought to you by Gilbert Dentist Dr. Matt Roper.

Sedation Dentistry

Child scared of the dentist

My nine year old daughter had a bad experience at the dentist last year. Since then, she hasn’t wanted to go.  In fact, she’s terrified.  Is there a way to help children with this?

Elaine D. –  South Dakota

Elaine,

What will help her the most is a series of good experiences at the dentist, but I realize you have to get her there calmly first.  There is sedation dentistry. It is safe for children.

There are different levels of sedation: nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral conscious sedation,  and IV sedation.  I would discuss what is going on with your dentist and decide which option is better. If he’s not compassionate with your daughter’s fear, then you need to find a different dentist.

This blog is brought to you by Gilbert Dentist Dr. Matt Roper.