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Dr. Thomas

Archives for November 2022

Why Are My Dental Deep Cleanings So Long and Painful?

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My deep cleanings at the dentist are too long and painful, so I decided not to return to that dental practice. I am concerned because I know the cleanings are for gum disease, but I cannot take them. My sister recommended asking for sedation, but I don’t want to return to this dentist. I have two recommendations from coworkers who like their dentist, but I would like to ask about sedation first. Will a dentist be willing to sedate me before a deep cleaning? Also, my appointment seemed so long. How long should a deep cleaning take per appointment? Thank you! – Wendalynne

Wendalynne,

Thank you for your question. Your description of the pain you have experienced sounds like it may have another cause, and we are concerned. Untreated gum disease can cause loose teeth and even tooth loss. It is good that you will continue deep cleaning despite your negative experiences.

Can You Get Dental Sedation for a Deep Cleaning?

Woman resting in a field of flowers portraying relaxation from sedatiion during a dental deep cleaning

Dental sedation relaxes you during dental deep cleanings

Yes, you can get dental sedation for deep cleaning. Before selecting a new dentist, ask the scheduler about the types of sedation offered. You may prefer to schedule a consultation with a dentist first to discuss your concerns, pain, and anxiety level.

How Long Does a Dental Deep Cleaning Take?

A deep cleaning at the dentist takes an average of 45 minutes. Depending on the extent of gum disease, you may have separate appointments for each side of your mouth. Scheduling two visits instead of a prolonged session can make your treatment more comfortable.

Why Are Your Deep Cleaning So Painful?

Deep dental cleanings can be painful if the treatment provokes an active infection. A dentist can calm your symptoms from an aggressive infection with the following steps:

  • Prescribe antibiotics for you to take throughout your treatment
  • Shorten treatment sessions to promote your comfort
  • Offer sedation to help you relax and have less sensitivity to pain during treatment

Second Opinion for Gum Disease and Deep Cleanings

If you cannot find a dentist experienced in treating gum disease, you can visit a periodontist (gum specialist). Explain your experiences to your new dentist and ensure you are comfortable with the dentist’s response to your concerns and willingness to provide sedation.

 

Sugar Land, Texas, dentist Dr. Siny Thomas sponsors this post.

 

What Are the Side Effects of Dental Sedation?

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Woman lying in a field of daisies portraying the relaxing effects of dental sedation

Dental sedation is relaxing

I have an appointment for an apicoectomy next Wednesday. Since I already had two failed root canals on the tooth, I have become anxious. I accepted the dentist’s offer of sedation, but I am afraid of that too. What side effects can I expect with dental sedation? – Thank you. Minou from Michigan

Minou,

Thank you for your question. A dentist determines whether you are a candidate for sedation and which medication to use based on your medical history, procedure, and anxiety level. What can you expect?

Readers: See our October 2021 blog post for information on how root canal therapy and apicoectomy differ.

What Are the Side Effects of Dental Sedation?

The side effects of dental sedation depend on the sedation type. We will discuss nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation.

Nitrous Oxide Side Effects

Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is an odorless, colorless gas that wears off quickly after you stop inhaling it. After your procedure, your dentist will give you oxygen to reverse nitrous oxide’s effects. Side effects include:

  • A tingling sensation
  • A sense of well-being
  • Nausea

You can minimize nausea risks by avoiding large meals before your appointment.

Oral Conscious Sedation Side Effects

Oral conscious sedation is medication in pill form. A dentist may prescribe Valium, Ativan, or Halcion for you to take before your dental appointment.

Side effects vary by medication but may include:

  • Sleepiness
  • Nausea
  • Headache

IV Sedation

Intravenous (IV) sedation is more potent than nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation and quickly relaxes you.

Side effects may include:

  • Drowsiness
  • Dry mouth
  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Amnesia

Your dentist will explain which type of dental sedation will work best for you and your procedure. Follow the pre- and post-procedure instructions to maximize your comfort.

Dr. Siny Thomas, a Sugar Land, Texas dentist, sponsors this post. Dr. Thomas is a graduate of the surgical program of the Pikos Institute in Trinity, Florida.

 

 

How Long Can I Delay Wisdom Teeth Removal?

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Young adult man portraying wisdom teeth painHow long can I delay wisdom teeth removal? I am 26 years old and still have my wisdom teeth. The lower back and upper teeth began hurting two months ago, and the gums behind them are swollen. I have travel plans for the next two months and would like to know if I can continue taking ibuprofen and using numbing gel until late January/early February. I am concerned that my recovery will overlap with my travel plans. How long can I delay wisdom teeth removal? Micah from San Jose

Micah,

Thank you for your question. We understand your concerns about your wisdom teeth and how they will affect your plans. Dr. Thomas would need to examine and x-ray your teeth to verify their condition, but we will provide a general answer to your concerns.

How Long Can You Delay Wisdom Teeth Removal?

How long you can delay wisdom teeth removal depends on the condition of your teeth. If you are experiencing pain and swelling around your wisdom teeth, you have an infection. Although a dentist can prescribe an antibiotic, the condition will not wholly resolve unless a dentist or oral surgeon removes them. You will need an exam and x-ray to determine whether you can delay treatment or if it is best to get prompt care to avoid a dental emergency while you are traveling.

What Causes Pain and Swelling Around Wisdom Teeth?

You may experience pain and swelling around impacted wisdom teeth that are trying to erupt but are trapped in the bone or positioned at an angle that prevents full eruption. Trapped food debris and plaque around the teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infection.

Will You Need an Oral Surgeon?

You may need an oral surgeon or a dentist with advanced oral surgery training if your teeth are impacted. Although many dentists take emergency appointments, not all dentists are trained for complex oral surgery. Take time before you travel to get an exam, x-rays, and diagnosis for the condition of your wisdom teeth and how they are affecting your oral health. A dentist will explain whether you can delay tooth removal or if you need immediate care.

 

Dr. Siny Thomas, a Sugar Land, Texas dentist, sponsors this post. Dr. Thomas is a graduate of the surgical program of the Pikos Institute in Trinity, Florida.

Why Does My Partial Denture Move When I Chew?

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I went directly through the lab my dentist uses to get my new partial denture. My old partial lasted eight years until I broke it. I bypassed my dentist for the new partial denture because the lab does a good job, and I knew it could save the lab and me some money if we cut out the middleman. Well, the partial has too much plastic backing that it is uncomfortable, and the plate is too short, so the partial rocks when I chew. The lab tried several times to fix this issue, but they told me I needed to go through my dentist if I wanted anything different. Why would they agree to do my partial denture if they don’t want to get it right? – Thank you. Titus from Cleveland, OH

 

Titus,

Thank you for your question. Dr. Thomas would need to examine your denture to determine why it is unstable.

It is illegal for a lab to make a partial denture, complete denture, or any restoration without a prescription from your dentist. Although you asked the lab to make the partial denture for you to save money, they should have refused. But the lab knows the legal requirements, so they are primarily at fault.

What Causes a Partial Denture to Move?

A partial denture can move when you chew if its framework s distorted.

A dentist takes an impression of your mouth, makes an accurate model of your teeth, and transmits the information to the lab to make your partial denture. Lab techs are not trained to take impressions and can only make a precisely fitting appliance with your dentist’s help.

If you want a refund, you can tell the lab that you will report the issue to the state dental board. They will probably agree to refund you. Afterward, please return to your dentist or the dentist of your choice to make a new partial denture that will fit well, be as comfortable as possible, and not rock when you chew.

An Alternative to a Partial Denture

A diagram of a dental implant between two teeth

Dental implant

A dental implant is an alternative to a partial denture. Implants are artificial tooth roots that integrate with your jawbone. Advantages of a dental implant include:

  • An implant can last 20 years or longer, while a partial denture lasts about five years
  • It supports a dental crown, replacing the portion of your tooth above the gumline
  • Unlike a partial denture, an implant does not rely on adjacent teeth for support
  • An implant anchored in your jawbone will not move when you chew

Consider a dental implant when it is time to replace your partial dentures. Speak with an implant dentist in advance to discuss whether you can benefit from an implant.

 

Sugar Land, Texas, dentist Dr. Siny Thomas sponsors this post.