Monthly Archives: December 2012

PRINTED IN TCI WEEKLY NEWS
December 15th, 2012

In this final article looking on drugs used during dental procedures I want to look at the area of anti-anxiety medication and sedation. These drugs are not used routinely due to their serious nature, the potential risks and/ or side effects, and the potential for interaction with other prescribed medication. They should also only be used for long or complex dental surgery, not for simple cleanings or fillings.

The vast majority of my patients are happily treated with the use of a local anesthetic which is effective for even complex and lengthy surgery and if required can be ‘topped-up’ during the course of the procedure. However, some patients suffer with genuine anxiety and request help in order to be able to have treatment. This is where anti-anxiety drugs or a mild- moderate sedation might be helpful.

PRINTED IN TCI WEEKLY NEWS
December 1st, 2012

Anesthetic
Local anesthetic causes a reversible loss of sensation, or numbing feeling and is administered by the dentist. Anesthetics are used for several different treatments including fillings, extractions, implant placement and when teeth are being prepared for crowns or bridges. A topical anesthetic may be used first with children or sensitive patients in the form of a gel that is applied to the gum and gives a mild numbing sensation. When the site is mildly numb the dentist will inject a stronger anesthetic into the gum around the site where the work will be performed. This might take several injections but usually after the first one or two the anesthetic is already taking effect and you may not feel the further injections as much or at all. Once the anesthetic has taken full effect the dental procedure can be carried out painlessly.