What Types of Sedation do Dentists Use?

Dec 3rd, 2017
Easton Dentists Jan 3rd, 2018

Sometimes, a patient may need to be sedated before undergoing a dental procedure. There are many different types of sedation that may be used. Below, you’ll find a list of some of the most common forms of sedation that are used in dental offices.

1. Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is delivered through a mask that is placed over the nose. For patients who are agitated or nervous, nitrous oxide may be administered to help them to feel more calm and relaxed. The effects of nitrous oxide are mild and it is safe and quickly eliminated from the body.

2. Oral Sedation

Oral sedation is a bit stronger than nitrous oxide. It should not render you unconscious, but it will make you feel quite tired. If you are going to receive oral sedation at a dental appointment, you should make sure you have a ride home as it may be unsafe for you to drive yourself for a few hours after you have received your oral sedation.

3. General anesthesia

Occasionally, it may be necessary for you to be completely unconscious during a dental procedure. If this is the case, you will be administered general anesthesia. Before receiving general anesthesia, you will need to pass a physical examination.

If you have any questions about what form of anesthesia you may receive prior to your dental procedure, give us a call. We’ll be happy to explain the full effects of each type of anesthesia to you. We can also discuss your anesthesia options when we meet for a consultation. Anesthesia is often an excellent means of decreasing the anxiety and pain that many patients tend to associate with visits to the dentist’s office.

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What Does it Take To Become a Dentist?

Dec 3rd, 2017
Easton Dentists Jan 3rd, 2018

Are you looking for a career where you can really make a difference? If so, a career as a dentist may be right for you! Dentists have the privilege of helping individuals to maintain their health and of relieving pain that may be caused by their dental issues. Before you can begin a career as a dentist, however, you will need to obtain the proper education and training. Below, you’ll find the four keys steps you must take to launch your career as a dentist.

1. Earn a bachelor’s degree

There is no particular pre-dental bachelor’s degree you must earn before enrolling in dental school. You must, however, take certain courses during your undergraduate career if you hope to be admitted to dental school. These courses are: Biology, Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Physics and, for most dental schools, English. To ensure that you are a competitive candidate for dental school you should try your very best to maintain a high GPA throughout your undergraduate career.

2. Take the Dental Admission Test (DAT)

All Dental School applicants must take the DAT. This test consists of four multiple choice sections that cover natural sciences, reading comprehension, quantitative reasoning, and perceptual ability. Your score on this test will play an important role in your dental school application.

3. Earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medicine (DDM) degree

You must earn your degree from an accredited dental school. Typically, earning one of these degrees takes four years.

4. Pass your licensing exams

All dentists must pass the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) which focuses on the basic sciences. Some states also require additional examinations.

If you’re interested in learning more about a career as a dentist, you can find some helpful information here: http://www.ada.org/en/education-careers. Good luck as you pursue this rewarding career path!

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