What You Need to Know About Dental Sedation | Ottawa Dentist

When a patient is nervous about a dental procedure to the point that it becomes impossible to proceed, there are steps that can be taken to not only relax the patient, but to make it as painless as possible. Not only do many dental offices provide a more relaxing environment for the patient, including spa-like amenities like weighted blankets and lavender facemasks. Sedation dentistry is also an innovative field of dentistry that is extremely useful for those who fear the dentist, hate needles, have sensitive teeth, or are immune to the numbing effects of anesthesia. Although sedation dentistry may not be right for everyone, Dr. Konstantin Pliev encourages patients who are undergoing periodontal treatment to consider sedation dentistry to ease discomfort and paranoia. Sometimes referred to as “sleep dentistry“, although that’s not entirely accurate. Patients are usually awake with the exception of those who are under general anesthesia.

The levels of sedation used include:

  • Minimal. Awake but relaxed.
  • Moderate (formerly called “conscious sedation”). The patient may slur your words when speaking and not remember much of the procedure.
  • Deep. Patient is on the edge of consciousness but can still be awakened.
  • General anesthesia. The patient is completely unconscious.

And if you are worried about sedation dentistry being safe, rest assured that integrating sedation dentistry into your procedure is absolutely comfortable and safe. Patients agree that sedation dentistry was the best option for their procedure because it allows your dental professionals to work thoroughly for maximum results. If you are interested in a way to make your dental experience as pain-free as possible, talk to your dentist during your next dental checkup. They will be happy to address any questions or concerns you may have.

For more information about sedation dentistry, call Dr. Pliev in Ottawa, ON at 613-235-5348 or visit www.ottawadentistryonkent.com.

Dr. Konstantin Pliev proudly serve patients from Ottawa and all surrounding areas.

The ABCs of Dental Emergencies | Ottawa Dentist

We all need to visit the dentist twice a year, but oftentimes your teeth don’t want to wait that long. These are what we call dental emergencies. Some require immediate treatment – others can wait for a scheduled appointment. Here’s some guidelines to help you know the difference:

If a tooth is knocked out completely, immediate care is required to save it. It’s possible that the tooth can be re-implanted if you get to the dentist within an hour or so. Rinse the tooth with water, and don’t touch the root. 

If you chip or break a tooth, call your dentist – they’ll likely ask you to visit the office in the coming days for inspection. It’s difficult to know the extent of the damage without x-rays and proper checkup, so even if you feel it’s minor, be sure to call your dentist for advice.

If the tooth is pushed inward or outward, GENTLY try to straighten it but do not try to force it into its socket, and call your dentist. If possible, stabilize the tooth with gauze or tissue on your way to the dentist.

If you’re experiencing a severe toothache, brush your teeth, and then rinse with warm salt water. If you’re experiencing swelling, you may have relief with a cold compress, and a pain reliever. It’s likely not an emergency, but you should have the tooth checked as soon as possible.

We can’t always avoid physical injury, but your dentist can help treat injuries as they happen. Try to stay calm, then call the dentist – they’ll provide the best possible care.

For more information about dental emergencies, call Dr. Pliev in Ottawa, ON at 613-235-5348 or visit www.ottawadentistryonkent.com.

Dr. Konstantin Pliev proudly serve patients from Ottawa and all surrounding areas.