Compassionate Dental Care
By Taylor Smith
Many people forgo regular dental checkups due to fear and anxiety. However, Dr. Jerry Strauss of Aesthetic Dental Care in Totowa, NJ specializes in caring for and treating patients with extreme dental anxiety using oral conscious and IV sedation. Aesthetic Dental Care also welcomes patients with special needs, including Alzheimer’s. Whatever the case, the staff at Aesthetic Dental Care is always willing to listen in order to live up to their claim of pain-free dentistry.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral conscious sedation can be used on everything from routine cleanings to extractions and cosmetic procedures. Some clients with very busy schedules elect for oral sedation because it allows for them to have multiple procedures done in one sitting. Other reasons for seeking oral sedation include teeth sensitivity, fear of shots and needles, and difficulty getting numb.
Dr. Strauss will consult with a patient’s primary physician prior to any form of sedation treatment. For example, a smoker or someone with heart conditions would not be a good candidate. Dr. Strauss will also verify that there are no interactions with pre-existing medications.
Dr. Strauss clarifies that “oral sedation dentistry is not sleep dentistry. The patient is still in control and they are able to carry on conversations.” Patients will also be provided with a neck pillow, headphones, and a blanket to aid in relaxation.
IV Sedation
While a patient remains conscious during oral sedation, IV sedation sends the patient into what is known as a “twilight sleep.”
Preparation is limited to “being given something the night before to get a good night’s rest. They will also be prepped on what they can eat and drink, and when they should stop eating and drinking.”
The LVI dentist will perform the dental procedure and the on-staff anesthesiologist will intravenously administer the anesthesia and “closely monitor the patient as if they were in a hospital.” Under IV sedation, patients will not be aware of any sights, sounds or smells associated with dental care. When the procedure is complete, they will gently awaken and have no memory of the experience.
Following the procedure, Dr. Strauss recommends that all patients “take the day off - that means, no driving, no major decision making.” Each patient will be provided with specific post-procedure instructions.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Strauss, call 973.227.8998 or visit www.aestheticdentalcarenj.com.