At Legacy Dental, we understand that the idea of a tooth extraction can cause anxiety. Our goal is always to preserve your natural teeth, but sometimes, an extraction is the best option for your overall oral health. Dr. Magers and our team are committed to providing gentle and comfortable tooth extractions in a caring environment right here in Burleson.

When is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?

While we strive to save every tooth and explore every option available to do so, there are situations where extraction becomes essential:

• Severe Decay: When a tooth is too damaged by decay to be restored effectively and give you long-lasting results.
• Infection: When an infection is too advanced for root canal therapy.
• Impacted Teeth: Such as wisdom teeth that are causing pain or damage, or put you at risk of complications later on in life.
• Orthodontic Needs: To create space for proper tooth alignment for a beautiful and functional smile.
• Preparation for Restorations: To prepare your mouth for dentures or implants to give you back a smile you can love.

Our Gentle Approach to Extractions

Contrary to popular belief, tooth extractions, or better known as “pulling a tooth”, involve very little “pulling” at all. Dr. Magers uses a gentle back-and-forth motion to carefully loosen the tooth and once your tooth has sufficiently “let go” of the surrounding gum, it simply comes out!

We’ll numb the area completely beforehand, and other than the immediate relief you’ll experience once your problematic tooth is gone, you’ll only notice a slight pressure during the entire procedure.

How Does a Tooth Extraction Benefit Me?

• Pain Relief: A damaged or infected tooth not only causes sensitivity and pain, it also effects the gum and teeth around it. Once the tooth is gone, you’ll start healing right away.
• Prevents Spread of Infection: With the cause of the problem gone, we effectively stop the spread of infection.
• Prepares for Restorative Options: Creates space for dental implants, bridges, or dentures, restoring your smile’s function and appearance.

What to Expect During Your Extraction

• Numbing: We’ll ensure you’re completely comfortable by numbing the area. We’ll spend a few moments letting the local anesthetic take effect before starting your procedure, and once we’re confident you’re ready, we move on to the next step.
• Gentle Loosening: Dr. Magers will gently loosen the tooth using a controlled back-and-forth motion. In mere moments, your tooth will be ready to come out, and we can do a careful check to ensure the area is clean and ready to start healing.
• Post-Extraction Care: Now that your tooth is removed and the area clean, we immediately shift our focus to your aftercare and healing process. We’ll discuss the necessary steps you can take at home to keep the area clean and healthy, discuss pain-relief options, and give you useful tips on how to brush around the area. You’ll feel confident and informed every step of the way.

Prioritize a Healthy Smile for a Healthier You

If you’re experiencing tooth pain or have concerns about a damaged tooth, give us a call at Legacy Dental today. We’ll assess your situation, determine the best course of action, and get you on your path to relief as soon as possible.

At Legacy Dental, we understand that the thought of a root canal can be a bit unnerving. But the truth is, modern root canal therapy is much more comfortable than you might think! Dr. Magers and our team are dedicated to providing gentle, effective root canal treatment to save your natural tooth and relieve your pain.

Why Might I Need a Root Canal?

Inside each of your teeth is a soft tissue called the pulp. When this pulp becomes infected or inflamed, it can cause significant pain and discomfort. A root canal is needed to clean the tooth, remove the infection, and prevent further damage. Living with dental pain? Give us a call today to get the much-needed relief you deserve.

Benefits of Root Canal Therapy

Even with diligent brushing and flossing at home, plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth over time, especially in those hard-to-reach places we just can’t reach.

• Saves Your Natural Tooth: Whenever possible, we want to help you keep your natural teeth. Root canal therapy allows us to save a tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted.
• Relieves Pain: An infected tooth can cause severe pain and discomfort. Root canal therapy effectively eliminates the source of the infection and provides much-needed relief.
• Restores Function: Once your tooth is restored, you’ll be able to chew and speak normally again.
• Prevents Further Damage: By addressing the infection, we can prevent it from spreading to surrounding teeth and bone.

What to Expect During a Root Canal

• Numbing: We’ll make sure you’re completely comfortable by numbing the area around the tooth.
• Cleaning the Infection: Dr. Magers will gently clean the infection from inside your tooth.
• Filling and Sealing: The tooth is filled with a special dental filling material and sealed to prevent reinfection, restoring the natural strength of your tooth and giving you all the functionality back!
• Restoration: In some cases, a crown is placed over the tooth to provide strength and protection. This isn’t always necessary, and Dr. Magers will discuss the best options for your individual needs.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late!

If you’re experiencing toothache, a pain in your jaw, or feeling a sharp pain sensation when you bite down, don’t hesitate to give us a call or schedule your appointment at Legacy Dental. We’ll take the time to carefully evaluate your tooth and determine if root canal therapy is the right solution for you. We’re here to help, and saving your natural tooth is our top priority! Let us help you achieve a healthy, pain-free smile!

What Happens During a Checkup?

• Comprehensive Examination: Dr. Magers will carefully examine your teeth, gums, and mouth for any signs of tooth decay, gum disease, or other oral health issues.
• Oral Cancer Screening: We conduct thorough oral cancer screenings to detect any signs of abnormalities early on.
• Dental X-Rays: X-rays allow us to see what’s happening beneath the surface, showing us everything from the integrity of your roots to spotting hidden infections that could lead to painful toothaches when you least expect it.
• Personalized Consultation: We’ll discuss your oral health goals, address any concerns you may have, and answer your questions in a relaxed and friendly manner. We’d love to get to know you!

Why Are Professional Cleanings So Important?

Even with diligent brushing and flossing at home, plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth over time, especially in those hard-to-reach places we just can’t reach. Our skilled hygienists will:

• Remove Plaque and Tartar: We’ll gently remove plaque and tartar buildup which can lead to gum disease and tooth decay, including any harmful bacteria. Your smile will thank you for it!
• Polish Your Teeth: A professional polish leaves your teeth feeling smooth and looking their best. In fact, many of our patients can’t help but comment on how fresh their smiles feel.
• Provide Personalized Oral Hygiene Tips: We’ll share tips and techniques to improve your at-home oral care routine, filling in any gaps, recommending a toothbrush, and even proper flossing techniques that work for your smile.

Benefits of Regular Checkups & Cleanings

• Prevent Tooth Decay and Gum Disease: Early detection and treatment of dental issues can help you avoid more extensive and costly procedures down the road.
• Maintain a Healthy Smile: Regular cleanings and checkups help keep your teeth and gums healthy, contributing to a beautiful and confident smile.
• Detect Oral Cancer Early: Oral cancer screenings can help identify signs of oral cancer in its early stages, when treatment is most effective.
• Freshen Your Breath: Professional cleanings remove bacteria and food particles that can cause bad breath.

Schedule Your Checkup & Cleaning Today!

Ready to prioritize your oral health and give yourself the gift of peace of mind? Give us a call or schedule your appointment online to experience dental care the Legacy Dental way!

At Legacy Dental Texas in Burleson, TX, we believe everyone deserves a smile they love. Dr. Magers and our team are passionate about helping you achieve the confident, radiant smile you’ve always dreamed of. We offer a wide array of cosmetic dentistry services to enhance your natural beauty and improve your oral health.

Our Cosmetic Dental Services

• Veneers: Achieve a flawless smile with custom-made veneers that correct imperfections and enhance your teeth’ appearance. They can address issues like discoloration, chips, gaps, and misalignment.
• Teeth Whitening: Brighten your smile and remove stains with our professional teeth whitening treatments. We offer both in-office and take-home whitening options to fit your needs and lifestyle.
• Porcelain Crowns: Restore a damaged tooth to its full function and beauty with a natural-looking porcelain crown. Crowns can also be used to improve the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth.
• Dental Bonding: Repair chipped, cracked, or misshapen teeth with tooth-colored bonding material. Bonding is a quick and minimally invasive procedure that can significantly enhance your smile.
• Clear Aligners: Straighten your teeth discreetly and comfortably with clear aligners. Aligner therapy is a popular alternative to traditional braces for achieving a straighter smile.
• Dental Implants: Replace missing teeth with dental implants, a long-lasting and natural-looking solution. Implants not only restore your smile but also improve your oral health and function.
• Gingival Contouring: Reshape your gum line for a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile. Gingival contouring can address issues like a “gummy smile” or uneven gum tissue.

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth, gums, and smile. It involves a variety of procedures that can correct imperfections such as discoloration, chips, gaps, and misalignment. Whether you’re looking for a subtle enhancement or a dramatic transformation, our experienced team can help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Give us a call today to start your journey to your perfect smile.

Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry

• Enhanced Appearance: Improve your smile and boost your self-confidence.
• Improved Oral Health: Some cosmetic procedures can also improve your oral health, such as straightening teeth for better bite alignment.
• Increased Self-Esteem: A beautiful smile can make you feel more confident and positive about yourself.
• Long-Lasting Results: Enjoy your beautiful new smile for years to come with proper care and maintenance.

Why Choose Legacy Dental Texas?

• Experienced Cosmetic Dentist: Dr. Magers is a skilled cosmetic dentist with years of experience creating beautiful, healthy smiles with a passion for providing personalized care tailored to your unique needs.
• Advanced Technology: We’re committed to providing you with the best possible care, and that includes using the latest technology and techniques to achieve outstanding results.
• Comfortable and Relaxed Atmosphere: Our friendly team is committed to making your experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
• Personalized Treatment Plans: We’ll work with you to create a customized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and goals.

Schedule Your Cosmetic Dentistry Consultation Today

Are you ready to transform your smile and enhance your confidence? Contact Legacy Dental Texas today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Magers. We’ll discuss your concerns, assess your oral health, and recommend the best cosmetic dentistry options for you. We look forward to helping you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted!

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

As the tissues around your teeth get infected, they detach from the tooth, creating a deeper pocket between the gum tissues and the root. Consequently, bone support is also lost. Without adequate professional treatment, teeth gradually loosen and fall out.

You may experience:

• Bleeding gums
• Swelling
• Gum recession (“long teeth”)
• Bad breath
• Tooth mobility

If you smoke, you may not notice the traditional symptoms of bleeding and swelling.

To determine how advanced the disease has progressed, our experts will record multiple measurements around each tooth, comparing them to digital images that show where bone levels and tissue attachment levels compare to one another.

Health Risks

Gum disease doesn’t just affect your smile, it can also impair your overall wellness. Research shows that active gum disease allows pathogens to spread directly into the airway and cardiovascular system, significantly increasing the risk of multiple health conditions. Some of them include pneumonia, diabetes, heart attack, stroke, and infertility.

By combatting active oral infections, you improve your dental health as well as your immune system, benefiting your body as a whole.

Our mission is to help you retain your natural teeth for as long as possible, improving their health and integrity along the way. Contact Legacy Dental in Burleson, TX, today to request a new patient appointment.

Our superior diagnostics equipment and materials detect any changes to your teeth, tissues, or bone, including cracks, decay, gum disease, or the breakdown of dental restorations. Educating our patients on effective hygiene is the heart of our practice.

Frequent and proper brushing and flossing, along with your regular professional dental cleaning, will help reduce and remove plaque- a contributing factor to tooth decay and gum disease. Plaque is a soft, sticky, colorless bacterial film that grows on the hard surfaces of teeth. These bacteria use the sugar and starch from food particles in the mouth to produce acid. Left to accumulate, this acid produces foul breath, destroys the outer enamel of the tooth, and irritates gums to the point of bleeding.

How to Brush Your Teeth?

Brush your teeth at least twice a day, but preferably after every meal. You should use a soft-bristled toothbrush or electric toothbrush, and replace it every 3-4 months or as soon as the bristles begin to fray.

• Start by choosing your toothpaste carefully, ensuring that you buy one that contains fluoride.
• Place a pea-sized amount on your toothbrush.
• Use gentle, circular, short strokes (about the width of a tooth) against the teeth and gums.
• For the outer tooth surfaces, place the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle toward the gum line.
• To clean the chewing and inner tooth surfaces, use a gentle back-and-forth motion.
• To clean the inner front tooth surfaces hold the brush upright and use gentle up and down strokes with the tip of the brush.
• Don’t forget to brush along the gum line. Do not brush too vigorously as this may cause damage to the gum tissue.
• It is recommended that you spend two minutes each time you brush your teeth. You should spend 30 seconds brushing each section of your mouth (upper right, upper left, lower right, lower left).
• The tongue should also be brushed using a back-to-front sweeping motion to remove any food particles and bacteria that may sour the breath.
• Thoroughly rinse the toothbrush to remove debris and toothpaste. Do not routinely store your toothbrush in a closed container, as the moist environment is more conducive than the open air to the growth of microorganisms.

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a prevalent sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions can last from a few seconds to minutes and may occur hundreds of times in one night, leading to fragmented sleep and lowered oxygen levels in the blood.

The most common type, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), occurs when the muscles at the back of the throat fail to keep the airway open, despite efforts to breathe. Symptoms often include loud snoring, choking sounds, excessive daytime sleepiness, and morning headaches.

It’s essential to address sleep apnea not only for improved sleep quality but also because untreated cases can lead to a range of health complications, including hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes. If you suspect you have sleep apnea, it’s recommended to seek medical attention. In some instances, treatments may involve dental devices, so consulting with a dentist in Burleson, TX can provide further insight and potential solutions.

The Big Deal About Sleep Apnea

Many people don’t know that they have sleep apnea, and even think it is harmless, but the disorder can cause low blood oxygen levels and even a severe form of congestive heart failure. New discoveries in technology show that modern dental appliances can not only ease the symptoms of sleep apnea but also help to ensure a full night of sleep and a longer healthier life.

Sleep Apnea Treatment At Legacy Dental

The gold standard therapy for sleep apnea is wearing a C-PAP, but many people are intolerant to wearing the device. Studies show that sufferers with mild to moderate sleep apnea can benefit just as well with an oral appliance. An oral appliance is also prescribed when a severe sleep apnea sufferer refuses to wear a C-PAP.

Dental professionals play a crucial role in the evaluation and treatment of certain types of sleep apnea, especially obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Here’s a breakdown of the process a patient can expect when being evaluated and treated for sleep apnea by our Burleson dentist:

1. Initial Consultation:
   • The patient discusses symptoms with our dentists, such as snoring, daytime fatigue, or observed breathing interruptions during sleep.
   • Dr. Barroso or Dr. Magers will review the patient’s medical history and might ask questions about sleep patterns, frequency of waking up during the night, and daytime sleepiness.
2. Oral Examination:
   • The dentist examines the patient’s mouth, throat, and jaw to identify any anatomical factors that could contribute to sleep apnea, such as a recessed chin, enlarged tongue, or tonsils.
3. Referral for Sleep Study:
   • If the dentist suspects sleep apnea, they might refer the patient for a polysomnogram, or sleep study, typically conducted at a sleep center. Some patients might qualify for a home sleep test.
   • The study will monitor various body functions during sleep, including brain electrical activity, eye movement, muscle activity, heart rate, respiratory effort, airflow, and blood oxygen levels.
4. Diagnosis:
   • Once the results from the sleep study are available, a sleep physician will provide a diagnosis.
   • If OSA is diagnosed, its severity will be determined, which will influence the treatment approach.
5. Dental Device Recommendation:
   • For mild to moderate OSA, and in cases where CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy isn’t tolerated, our dentists may recommend an oral appliance or dental device.
   • These devices resemble mouthguards and work by repositioning the lower jaw and tongue to keep the airway open.
6. Fitting of the Oral Appliance:
   • If an oral appliance is deemed appropriate, the dentist will take impressions of the patient’s teeth.
   • The custom-made device will be fabricated, and once ready, the patient returns for a fitting.
   • Our dentist in Burleson will adjust the appliance to maximize its effectiveness and comfort.
7. Follow-up Appointments:
   • The patient will have follow-up visits to ensure the device fits correctly and is alleviating symptoms.
   • Adjustments can be made if necessary.
8. Long-term Care:
   • Regular dental check-ups will be needed to ensure the continued effectiveness of the device, assess its condition, and confirm it isn’t causing any bite or jaw issues.
   • Lifestyle modifications will also be discussed, as sleep apnea treatment is often holistic. If the patient is overweight, proper nutrition and exercise will be discussed to reduce the patient’s BMI. Our dentists will also make suggestions regarding limiting alcohol intake and quitting smoking or vaping.
9. Continuous Communication:
   • It’s essential for the patient to maintain communication with both their dentist and sleep physician, reporting any concerns or changes in symptoms.

It’s worth noting that while dental devices can be effective for some individuals, they aren’t suitable for everyone. It’s crucial to have a multidisciplinary approach to sleep apnea treatment involving both dental professionals and sleep medicine specialists.

Will Insurance Cover Sleep Apnea Treatment?

Our Legacy Dental office team can help you with your pre-authorization and provide all codes and supporting information required to file with your medical insurance. Insurances are increasingly helping with the costs of these treatments and tests. Some of our patients do, however, choose to pay for it out-of-pocket so as to avoid the raising of insurance premiums once they see that testing has been done for sleep apnea. Whichever method you choose to use, we will file all the necessary paperwork so that you get the best benefit available to you.

Find Relief From Sleep Apnea in Burleson, TX

If you want to get evaluated for sleep apnea, schedule your consultation with us today! Please remember to fill out all the required patient forms before your visit in order to save time during the appointment.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

One common concern that brings many individuals into our office to see our Burleson dentists is their wisdom teeth. Often referred to as third molars, these teeth typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. While they might have served a purpose centuries ago when our ancestors needed them for chewing tough foods like roots and raw meat, nowadays, wisdom teeth often bring more trouble than benefits.

Due to evolution and changes in diet over time, most people’s jaws have become smaller than those of our ancestors’, leaving inadequate space for these late-arriving molars to properly develop. As a result, many patients experience pain, discomfort, overcrowding or misalignment issues caused by impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth.

Why Remove Wisdom Teeth?

In most cases, dental X-rays can detect 3^rd molars before a child has reached adolescence. Our dentists in Burleson, TX, can quite clearly see when they’re going to cause trouble.

Here are a few examples of when removing your wisdom teeth is an ideal preventative measure to avoid unwanted problems that have yet to develop:

Partial Eruption

When your wisdom tooth has come through the gums but not all the way, it can be difficult to clean. These teeth are especially prone to developing cavities and gum disease because of their location, which can easily spread to the adjacent teeth.

Impaction

Pressure caused by an impacted wisdom tooth can damage the adjacent tooth or push teeth forward causing crowding throughout your mouth.

Cysts

Sometimes developing wisdom teeth can have enlarged cysts that damage the bone around them.

The Benefits of Getting Wisdoms Removed

At Legacy Dental, your trusted dentist in Burleson, TX, we recognize the importance of wisdom teeth removal and its numerous benefits. By removing problematic wisdom teeth, we alleviate potential overcrowding and misalignment issues within the mouth, which can cause discomfort and even affect the alignment of existing healthy teeth over time. Moreover, eliminating these troublesome molars reduces the risk of developing painful conditions such as gum disease or infections associated with impacted wisdom teeth. Overcrowding and misalignment can also make maintaining adequate oral health impossible, resulting in decay of the wisdom teeth and surrounding teeth too.

Keeping You Comfortable

We offer in-house oral sedation to ensure the most relaxing experience possible. Whether you only need one tooth removed or all of your wisdom teeth extracted, our specialists are here to ensure your safety and comfort at all times.

Oral sedation uses prescription-strength sedatives that are taken by mouth just before your scheduled procedure. Gradually, you’ll start to feel sleepy or in a dream-like state; most people don’t even remember their appointments because of the amnesic effect. Obviously, you’ll need to have a family member or friend escort you to and from our office!

The medication will start to wear off a few hours later, giving us more than enough time to complete your oral surgery and have you back at home before you start to “come to.”

Common Questions & Concerns

Is wisdom tooth removal a painful procedure?
At Legacy Dental, we prioritize patient comfort and utilize advanced techniques to minimize any discomfort during wisdom tooth removal. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area, and in some cases, sedation options such as nitrous oxide or oral conscious sedation may be offered to help alleviate anxiety and ensure a pain-free experience.

How long does the recovery period last after wisdom tooth removal?
The recovery period varies from person to person, but typically, it takes about a week to fully heal. During this time, it’s important to follow post-operative instructions provided by your dentist, which may include eating soft foods, avoiding strenuous activities, and taking prescribed pain medications as needed. Swelling and mild discomfort are common during the initial days but should gradually subside.

Are there any risks associated with wisdom tooth removal?
As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks involved, although they are generally minimal. These may include infection, dry socket (a condition where the blood clot in the extraction site becomes dislodged), nerve damage, or sinus complications. However, these complications are relatively rare, especially when the procedure is performed by an experienced dentist in Burleson, TX, like Dr. Magers and Dr. Barroso.

Can I drive myself home after wisdom tooth removal?
Since various sedation options could be used during the procedure, it’s generally recommended to arrange for someone to drive you home afterward. The effects of sedation can temporarily impair coordination and judgment, making it unsafe to operate a vehicle. It’s always best to have a responsible adult accompany you or use alternative transportation arrangements for your safety and comfort.

Gentle Wisdom Tooth Removal in Burleson, TX

Legacy Dental provides multi-specialty care close to home so that you can receive expert services along with general oral care. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. We are here to serve you!

Common Dental Emergencies

• Severe Toothache: A persistent, throbbing toothache can indicate infection or damage that requires immediate attention.
• Chipped or Broken Tooth: A chipped or broken tooth can be painful and may increase your risk of infection if left untreated for a long period of time.
• Knocked-Out Tooth: If your tooth is completely knocked out, it’s crucial to seek dental care as soon as possible.
• Lost Filling or Crown: A lost filling or crown can expose your tooth to sensitivity and further damage.
• Abscessed Tooth: A dental abscess is a serious infection that requires prompt treatment to prevent complications.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Injuries to your gums, tongue, or inner cheeks can be painful and may require urgent care.

What to Do in a Dental Emergency

• Contact Us Immediately: Call Legacy Dental Texas as soon as possible to explain your situation. We understand the urgency and will work with you to get you the care you need quickly.
• Manage Pain and Swelling: Apply a cold compress to the affected area to reduce swelling and pain. Over-the-counter pain medication can also help manage discomfort.
• Save a Knocked-Out Tooth: If possible, gently rinse the tooth and try to place it back in its socket. If that’s not possible, keep the tooth moist in a container of milk or saliva and bring it with you to your appointment.

Why Choose Legacy Dental Texas for Emergency Dental Care?

• Fast and Effective Relief: We know that dental emergencies require immediate attention. Our goal is to provide fast relief and address your urgent needs as efficiently as possible.
• Experienced Emergency Dentist: Dr. Magers has extensive experience handling a wide range of dental emergencies.
• Compassionate Care: We understand that dental emergencies can be stressful. Our friendly and experienced team will provide gentle, supportive care to help you feel comfortable during your visit with us.

Don’t Hesitate to Contact Us

If you are experiencing a dental emergency in Burleson, TX, don’t delay seeking treatment. Contact Legacy Dental Texas immediately. We will work with you to provide the prompt care you need to restore your oral health and comfort.

Why Consider Dental Sedation?

Choosing to have sedation during your treatment provides the following benefits:

• The most relaxing experience possible
• An environment where our specialists can work more efficiently
• Opportunities to complete your treatment in one appointment
• Solutions for individuals with dental anxiety and/or phobia

If you’re curious about whether sedation is appropriate for your particular situation, just ask us! We’re happy to answer any questions that you might have.

Types of Sedation Offered

Various types of sedation are tailored to suit different levels of anxiety and types of procedures. Here’s an overview of the types of sedation our dental office provides under the expert care of Dr. Magers and Dr. Barroso, and the procedures they are best suited for:

Laughing Gas (Nitrous Oxide)

Laughing gas, or nitrous oxide, is a mild sedative that is inhaled through a mask placed over the nose. It helps patients relax and diminishes pain sensitivity, but they remain awake and can communicate with the dentist. The effects of the gas wear off quickly once the mask is removed, allowing patients to recover rapidly without lingering drowsiness.

This type of sedation is ideal for patients with mild anxiety or for short, less invasive procedures such as dental cleanings, fillings, and minor tooth extractions. It’s also a good option for patients who need to drive themselves home after the appointment.

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation involves taking a prescribed sedative pill about an hour before the dental procedure. The medication induces a state of moderate sedation, where patients feel significantly relaxed and may even be groggy. While under oral sedation, patients can still respond to verbal cues from the dentist, but they may have little to no memory of the procedure afterward.

Oral sedation is suited for patients with moderate anxiety or those undergoing longer dental procedures that might not be as invasive. These can include more extensive dental cleanings, root canal treatments, and some cosmetic dentistry procedures. Patients will need someone to drive them home after the procedure due to the lingering effects of the sedation.

IV Sedation

IV sedation involves administering sedative drugs directly into the bloodstream through a vein, offering the dentist precise control over the level of sedation. This method can induce a deep sedation state, where patients are on the edge of consciousness but can still be awakened if necessary. Recovery from IV sedation takes longer, and patients will have no memory of the procedure.

This type of sedation is best for patients with severe dental anxiety and those undergoing lengthy or complex procedures such as wisdom tooth extraction, dental implant placements, or extensive reconstructive or cosmetic dental work. Due to the deep sedation, patients will require monitoring and assistance going home.

Choosing the Right Sedation

Dr. Magers and Dr. Barroso would consider several factors when recommending the most appropriate sedation method, including the patient’s level of anxiety, the complexity and duration of the dental procedure, and the patient’s health history. During a pre-procedure consultation at Legacy Dental, they would discuss these options to ensure that patients are fully informed and comfortable with their sedation choice. This personalized approach ensures that each patient receives the care that best suits their needs, making their dental experience as comfortable and anxiety-free as possible.

How Does It Work?

All dental sedation patients are carefully screened, and a thorough medical history is completed prior to administering any type of sedative medication. Please plan to bring a list of all medications that you take (prescription or over-the-counter, including supplements), as well as disclose underlying medical conditions that you may have. Even if you feel it is not significant, there are contraindications for certain health issues that we should be made aware of; your privacy and confidentiality are respected at all times.

It can take a few hours after the procedure for the sedatives to completely wear off. Plan to wear comfortable, loose clothing, and dress in layers. We’ll give you a medication that’s taken by mouth just before your scheduled treatment. Gradually, you’ll start to feel sleepy, or like you’re daydreaming.

During sedation, you’ll remain semi-conscious, being able to respond to basic questions and instructions (such as “open” or “close”) but sleepy enough that you’re not quite aware of what’s going on around you.

Are You A Good Candidate For Sedation Dentistry?

It’s quite routine for our specialists to provide sedation during dental treatments, such as wisdom tooth extraction, dental implants, or root canals. However, sedation isn’t restricted to just these particular treatments. We also offer it as a solution to anyone who wants to feel more relaxed, overcome dental phobia, or simply “nap” through the visit for a more efficient experience.

To learn more about dental sedation, call our office or schedule a consultation!