What You Need to Know When Recovering from Laser Gum Surgery

Laser gum surgery is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that can be used to treat a number of different gum diseases. The laser gum procedure involves using a laser to remove diseased tissue from the gums and promote healing. Laser gum surgery is often used to treat gingivitis, periodontitis, and other gum diseases. While the surgery is minimally invasive, you still need to recover from it. And to ensure a speedy recovery here’s what you need to know.

Maintain a Liquid or Soft Diet

For the first few days after laser gum surgery, it is important to stick to a liquid or soft diet. Sticking to a liquid or soft diet will help to prevent any further irritation of the gums. Avoiding hard or crunchy foods will also help to avoid any further damage to the gums.

After the first few days post-surgery, you can slowly start to introduce solid foods back into your diet. However, it is important to avoid any foods that are hard or crunchy. These can cause further irritation to the gums and delay the healing process. 

It is also important to avoid using straws, smoking, and drinking alcohol for at least two weeks after surgery. These activities can all cause irritation and delay healing.

Avoid Brushing or Flossing Over the Treated Area

If you’ve recently had laser gum surgery, it’s important to take care of your teeth and gums to ensure a successful recovery. One of the most important things you can do is to avoid brushing or flossing over the treated area.

Brushing your teeth too soon after laser gum surgery can irritate your gums and cause them to bleed. It can also cause the surgical site to become infected. Flossing can also irritate your gums and cause bleeding. 

It’s important to wait until your gums have healed before you start brushing and flossing again. You should wait at least a week before you start brushing your teeth. If your gums are still sore, you can try using a softer toothbrush. 

Once your gums have completely healed, you can start brushing and flossing again. Be sure to brush gently and avoid irritating your gums. 

Keep Your Head Slightly Elevated

If you have recently had laser gum surgery, your doctor will have likely told you to keep your head slightly elevated for the first few days. This is to help reduce swelling and promote proper healing. Here are a few tips on how to best keep your head elevated during your recovery:

1. Use a few pillows when sleeping. When you are lying down, gravity will pull your head down and increase swelling. Placing a pillow under your head will help keep it elevated and reduce swelling.
2. Sit up straight. When sitting, be sure to keep your head up and back straight. This will help reduce pressure on your incisions and promote proper healing.
3. Use ice. Applying ice to your face can help reduce swelling. Be sure to wrap the ice in a towel so that it doesn’t directly touch your skin.

Final Thoughts

Laser gum surgery is a minimally invasive, effective way to treat gum disease. The procedure is quick and typically requires only one or two visits to the dentist. Recovery is usually quick and painless, with most patients able to return to their normal activities within a few days. But still, it’s important to heed your dentist’s advice to ensure a full recovery.

Get laser gum surgery in Lexington at Lexington Smile Studio. We provide a full range of dental services for your entire family. Our dental services include cosmetic dentistry, prosthodontics, implant dentistry, periodontics, and laser dentistry. Book an appointment now!

Important Things to Consider before Getting Invisalign

Invisalign is a great alternative to traditional braces for people who are looking for a straighter smile without all of the metal. The aligner trays are custom-made and barely noticeable, making this a great option for people who want to avoid the metal mouth look.

That said, there may be a few things to consider first before getting one for yourself. Below are just a few examples.

Know That It Is Custom-Made

Invisalign is different from traditional braces in that they are custom-made for your mouth. This means that your orthodontic needs will be specifically met rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach. It uses a series of clear aligners to gradually straighten your teeth. You’ll switch to a new set of aligners every two weeks until your treatment is complete and you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.

Ensure That You Have Consistent Communication with Your Orthodontist

The Invisalign process uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually and gently shift your teeth into place. You’ll need to wear each set of aligners for about two weeks before moving on to the next set. When you’re getting Invisalign treatment, you’ll need to go back to see your orthodontist every 8-10 weeks. This is to make sure that your treatment is on track and that you’re on your way to getting a straighter smile.

Practice Proper Discipline during the Treatment Period

Invisalign is a great choice for people who want to improve their smile without having to wear traditional braces. Since the aligners are removable, you may take them out to eat, drink, and brush your teeth. You don’t have to change your diet as well.

You should wear your Invisalign trays for at least 22 hours a day to get the best results. This means you must be careful about when you take them out and how long. If you remove your Invisalign trays for too long, it can slow down your treatment. Invisalign is usually recommended for older teenagers and adults who can be responsible for the freedom that Invisalign provides.  

Brush Your Teeth and Floss Regularly

Even though you’re not wearing braces, you still need to brush and floss regularly to avoid cavities and tooth decay. Be sure to brush at least twice a day and every time you eat. Food might get stuck in between your teeth and then will be left in your aligners if not removed.

Keep Your Aligners Clean

It is essential to keep your Invisalign clean as you would your teeth. This means regularly cleaning them to prevent bacteria and germs from growing. Invisalign offers a special cleaner to soak the aligners; however, toothpaste can damage the trays by brushing them with toothpaste. A gentler cleansing method would be to use soap and water. Remember to rinse the aligners well after.

Remember That Invisalign Can Include Adjustments as Well

Since Invisalign is a clear aligner that is used to straighten teeth, attachments are used in most cases to help move them accordingly. The more difficult the case, the more attachments there will be. This helps create anchor points that apply pressure to move certain teeth.

Take Note of the Possible Discomfort

Invisalign could cause some discomfort in the beginning as your teeth are being moved into position. You might feel some pain or sensitivity, but this is just normal. It is more comfortable to wear in the long run and doesn’t use any brackets or wires that could irritate your mouth.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a new way to maintain your smile, investing in an Invisalign implant may be a good option for you. With the help of a professional aligner, you can achieve a more consistent and beautiful smile in a short amount of time.

If you are looking for a dental clinic that specializes in Invisalign in Lexington, look no further than our services here at Lexington Smile Studio. Our dental services include cosmetic dentistry, prosthodontics, implant dentistry, periodontics, and laser dentistry. Call us today to book your first Invisalign session with us.

Dentistry 101: 7 Valuable Benefits of Wearing Invisalign

Our teeth are an essential part of the body because they allow us to break down food for easier consumption. Beyond that, they also accentuate our facial features, so oral health should never be taken for granted. However, a person can only do so much and may still be prone to various dental issues. Luckily, there are multiple solutions to this problem, such as Invisalign.

Invisalign is an alternative to traditional metal braces. It uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners that are virtually invisible. You wear each set of aligners for about two weeks, removing them only to eat, drink, brush and floss. As you replace each aligner with the next in the series, your teeth will move slowly, week by week, until they have straightened to their final positions. While its benefits are apparent, many people still have reservations. For this reason, we will discuss the various benefits one can reap when wearing Invisalign, such as:

#1 – Discreet

Invisalign is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to improve their smile without having to wear conspicuous metal braces. The clear plastic aligners are nearly invisible when worn, so nobody will know that you are straightening your teeth unless you tell them.

Furthermore, it is also an excellent option for people who are self-conscious about their appearance and do not want to draw attention to their teeth with traditional braces.

#2 – Comfortable to Wear

Invisalign is one of the most comfortable and convenient ways to straighten teeth. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign uses clear, virtually invisible, removable aligners. This means you can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing. For example, if you are a professional who needs to maintain a polished image, you can wear Invisalign without worrying about metal wires and brackets ruining your look.

#3 – Highly Convenient

Wearing Invisalign is convenient because you can take them out whenever you want, meaning you can eat whatever you want and brush and floss your teeth easily. You also do not have to worry about them getting in the way when playing sports or other activities because you can simply remove them.

#4 – Makes Brushing Easier

When wearing braces, brushing your teeth can be tricky because you have to be careful not to miss any spots. You also have to be extra gentle, so you do not damage your braces. This is not an issue with Invisalign because you can brush your teeth just like normal since there are no brackets or wires to get in the way. This makes it easier to keep your teeth clean and healthy while straightening them.

#5 – Boosts Your Confidence

Crooked teeth are never good because they can affect your confidence and self-esteem. Braces are an option, but the metal wires can make your smile look less attractive. Wearing Invisalign is a better way to improve your smile and give you the confidence to show your teeth without feeling self-conscious.

#6 – Prevents Further Dental Problems

Dental problems are inevitable and will happen to everyone at some point in their lives. When you wear Invisalign, it helps prevent further dental issues from occurring. This is because Invisalign straightens your teeth, which can help to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. In addition, Invisalign can also help improve your bite, reducing the risk of developing a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or other jaw disorders.

#7 – Always Effective

Braces are effective but can be uncomfortable and require a lot of upkeep. If you are looking for an alternative to braces, Invisalign is the perfect option because it will straighten your teeth over time. It doesn’t have to be worn 24/7 to ensure maximum comfort.

Additionally, Invisalign can be worn for a shorter period each day, making it more convenient. It does not strain your mouth, which usually happens with traditional braces.

Conclusion

Invisalign is a great way to improve your teeth without wearing traditional metal braces. The clear aligners are nearly invisible, so no one will know you’re wearing them. Invisalign is also comfortable to wear and can be removed for eating and brushing your teeth, so it guarantees convenience when worn.

If you’re looking for Invisalign in Lexington, Lexington Smile Studio can help you! Our dental professionals understand that oral care should never be overlooked, so we develop solutions to guarantee healthy teeth. Simply go to our website to book an appointment!

Oral Care: How to Determine If Your Child Has a Tongue-Tie

A tongue knot is one of the top causes cited online when infants or children cannot eat or speak properly. This blog post examines many simple approaches parents may utilize to determine if their child or infant may be infected with this illness. This article can also find where to visit a dentist in Lexington. 

The Directive

There may be an issue if your child’s tongue is small, heart-shaped, cannot be elevated, or cannot be protruded. A poor exam technique is sticking your tongue out. Instead, teach your youngster to raise their tongue (or do it for them). If you observe a thread connected to the tip of your child’s tongue, they likely have a limitation impacting speech. Following is the third point.

The Subtle Indication

Even if a parent believes their kid displays some or all of the symptoms of a tongue tie, when they elevate their child’s tongue, the string (frenum) is often not attached to or even close to the tip. Sometimes just 25% is apparent, or there may be no trace of a frenum. 

A posterior tongue tie is less obvious but more prevalent than the normal tip tongue restriction. It has not been addressed by healthcare professionals, medical or dentistry school curricula, or continuing education programs.

The posterior knot can be identified by approaching the patient from behind and raising the tongue with both index fingers on either side. The fascia or connective tissue assumes the appearance of a string or frenulum, and there is often a great deal of stress. 

However, the mere appearance of this trait in a baby or toddler does not establish a causal association. To be identified as having a tongue tie, additional symptoms must be present in addition to the constricted tissue string.

The Symptoms 

Contrary to common assumption, a tongue-tie can exist with or without any of these symptoms. 

• Depending on the mother’s milk production or how effectively she compensates for the infant’s poor eating habits, a tongue-tied infant may occasionally gain weight slowly or quickly. Sometimes breastfeeding hurts more than childbirth, sometimes it hurts a bit, and sometimes a tongue-tied infant does not hurt. 
• Newborns frequently experience the uncomfortable latch with a less evident posterior tongue tie.
• Others suffer from stuttering, clarity, speech sounds (R, L, S, etc.), confidence, and a substantial speech delay. Some children with tongue knots may talk clearly. The same applies to feeding, sleeping, and eating (slow and selective eating, particularly meat) (restless sleep, snoring, teeth grinding, etc.). 

Inadequate latch, weight increase, frequent spitting up or reflux, clicking or slapping sounds, and frequent gassiness or fussiness.

Other symptoms among infants include: 

• The milk is gushing from the lips.
• Frustration with prolonged breastfeeding sessions or with constantly feeling hungry.
• Motherly Concerns
• difficult nursing Pale, creased, and depressed nipples
• Cut or blistered nipples
• inadequate breast discharge
• obstructed ducts and mastitis
• For nursing, a nipple shield is essential

Other symptoms among young children include: 

• Communication difficulties are frustrating
• Problems with speech, understanding, and mumbling
• Particularly finicky with textures (meat, mashed potatoes)
• inconsistent sleeping (kicking or moving while asleep)
• Sleeping with mouth open and grinding teeth at night
• Snores (quiet or loud)
• Chronic headaches and neck pain

Trust Your Instinct 

Sometimes you must rely on your instincts. Almost invariably, if you observe something “weird” about your child, there is a problem. Even if medical professionals convince you that “this is normal” or “all newborns are fussy, gassy, colicky, etc.” or that “his siblings speak for him,” heed your instincts. You may consider a co2 laser for tongue-tie, with consultation with a dentist first. 

Conclusion 

Due to the prevalence of tongue-ties, it is usual for newborns to endure gas, irritation, and poor feeding. People incorrectly feel that these symptoms are typically due to their frequency. So, as early as now, you might as well consult with a cosmetic dentist in Lexington. 

Lexington Smile Studio, founded in 1991 by Dr. Fawn Rosenberg, sets the bar for great care by providing a comprehensive variety of dental treatments for the entire family. Contact us if you need co2 laser for tongue-tie. 

A Special Profession: All of the Basics about Prosthodontists

The word “prosthodontist” is actually a combination of two words: “prosthesis” and “dentist.” “Prosthesis” refers to artificial devices. All dentists, or “dentists,” are practitioners of a medical or dental specialty known as prosthodontics. Prosthodontists have advanced training in dental implants, crowns, bridges, dentures, jaw disorders, cosmetic dentistry, and more. The American Dental Association (ADA) states that nearly 300,000 people receive dental implants every year.

Over the last few years, there has been a rise in cosmetic dentistry as well as an increase in the number of Americans who say they wish they could change their teeth or smile to boost their self-confidence.

What Are the Main Roles of a Prosthodontist?

Prosthodontists care for natural teeth and change them to improve their appearance or function. Artificial teeth, dental implants, caps, or crowns are used to replace missing or extracted teeth.

What Are Their Required Education and Training

A prosthodontist has extensive training in the field of dental aesthetics, which includes replacing or restoring teeth. A person interested in being a prosthodontist must obtain undergraduate, dental, and graduate degrees. The training can take anywhere from eight to fifteen years to complete.

The process of becoming a certified prosthodontist involves:

• Completing an undergraduate degree.
• Dental school.
• Passing a series of national and state examinations to be licensed as a dentist.

The dentist must then complete four years of school to earn a master’s degree in dental surgery. Finally, he must pass the American Dental Association’s board certification exams for prosthodontics.

Why Should I See a Prosthodontist?

You may visit a prosthodontist for a variety of reasons, including an accident involving the mouth, a congenital (birth-related) condition, or simply to correct a cosmetic issue. They are well-trained in state-of-the-art techniques and procedures to treat complex dental issues, which traditional dentists—who generally have less formal training—can also do.

Their other focuses may include:

Denture Implants

A prosthodontist specializes in properly fitting and placing crowns, bridges, and removable or fixed dentures. The prosthodontist will assess your mouth and gums to determine the best size and shape and then create a new one that matches your jaw. The prosthodontist will craft a natural-looking denture that fits right, helping you to eat and speak better.

Snoring Issues

A prosthodontist is trained to help you work through your problems if you want to fix jaw pain or disorders or address issues like sleep apnea.

A prosthodontist focuses on the temporomandibular region of your body. This includes the muscles, joints, and bones around your jaw. TMJ disorders are typically apparent when people yawn, chew, or open their mouths during sleep. A prosthodontist can help you gain control of these issues and get the right treatment.

Traumatic Injuries to the Mouth

They can help you with trauma to the mouth and jaw, but a prosthodontist specializes in treating these issues. A jaw fracture or a tooth that needs to be replaced will be treated with a series of surgical options.

Cosmetic Dentistry

A prosthodontist can help you look and feel better with a variety of procedures. They are trained to provide quality dentures and fixed dental appliances that are designed to look and work naturally. The prosthodontist will also advise you of your cosmetic options, such as a dental implant or a single crown.

Conclusion

To conclude, a prosthodontist builds or restores teeth to provide functional and cosmetic improvement to your mouth and jaw. They are trained to provide quality dentures and fixed dental appliances that are designed to look and work naturally. The prosthodontist will also advise you of your cosmetic options, such as a dental implant or a single crown.

If you’re thinking about any cosmetic dentistry treatment, a consultation with a prosthodontist is highly recommended.

If you are looking for well-trusted cosmetic dentists in Lexington, look no further than our experts here at Lexington Smile Studio. Our dental services include cosmetic dentistry, prosthodontics, implant dentistry, periodontics, and laser dentistry. Call us today to book your first Prosthodontistry session with us.

How You Can Benefit from Getting Dental Fillings

Don’t feel bad if your dentist tells you that you need dental fillings. Fillings help fight tooth decay and can prolong the life of your tooth. If you want to learn why fillings can help you keep your teeth in good condition, here are some facts to consider.

What Are Dental Fillings?

A dental filling goes inside a tooth with a filling; its name implies that function. The dentist has to clean the cavity first, which involves administering anesthesia if the filling is in a deep tooth or if the cavity is large. The filling is then hardened with a curing light. Shaping and polishing follow. The tooth will have support during chewing and protection against future damage and decay.

When to Get Dental Fillings

Bacteria in the mouth accumulate over time, and these bacteria become acidic. The acid corrodes the teeth and causes cavities, which are tiny holes at first. If the holes go untreated, they become worse. The cavities become so deep that they extend into the dentin and pulp of the tooth. The tooth becomes sensitive to cold and heat, and it starts to hurt. A filling is required to prevent further damage to the tooth.

How Fillings Preserve Teeth

Dental fillings are a standard treatment for restoring cavities. A filling is often referred to as a dental restoration because it is used to restore what is missing: the enamel in a cavity. Common fillings materials are amalgam, resin, gold, and ceramic. Also, your dentist will scrape away all decay and replace it with the filling before they seal it in. 

Fillings preserve tooth shape and structure by preventing cavities from spreading or causing further damage to them. In addition, they keep out bacteria and prevent the decay from spreading deeper into the tooth.

Dentists do not last forever, either. The American Dental Association states that the average dentist retires at age 68 after practicing for 26 years. Our teeth also do not last forever; our fillings fall apart, exposing the cavity that has formed underneath. Dentists can inspect filling cavities and use x-rays to reveal cavities beneath the filling.

How Fillings Prevent Further Damage

It is always preferable to detect a cavity before it gets to the point where it requires a crown to fix it. A filling is cheaper and less time-intensive than a crown, and the dentist can stop the decay from spreading with a filling. This is preferable to waiting until the cavity has reached a point where a crown is needed because the crown is even more expensive and time-consuming. 

The other option after this point is either extracting the tooth and replacing it with an implant or performing a root canal on the remaining tooth. These options both cost more money and require even more time to complete. There is also the potential for additional issues like infections and further problems with other teeth in the mouth.

Conclusion

Are you feeling a twinge of pain in your tooth? A cavity may be forming. Schedule an appointment with your dentist to discuss ways to prevent further damage. A filling may be suggested to you, and it is always preferable to prevent further damage to your teeth. Even though it is much more effort to get a filling than to wait for a tooth to fall out simply, your dentist may suggest that it is worth it in the long run.

Established in 1991 by Dr. Fawn Rosenberg, Lexington Smile Studio sets the standards for exceptional care where we provide a full range of dental services for your entire family. Our dental services include cosmetic dentistry, prosthodontics, implant dentistry, periodontics, and laser dentistry. If you’re interested in Invisalign treatment in Lexington, we’re here to help! Book an appointment today and get the smile of your dreams next!

4 Things You Need to Know before Getting Dental Veneers

What is the main purpose of veneers? Well, they help your teeth look better! Whether you’re trying to hide permanent stains or simply hide injured teeth, dental veneers can help bring back that beautiful smile of yours.

That said, if you are interested in getting veneers, it first pays to know a couple of things about it before you get it done! Here are some of the things you should know:

The Process Will Require Multiple Visits

The process of getting a dental veneer will require multiple visits. The process will start with your initial consultation appointment and schedule your next appointment to get the veneers.

During your consultation, the dentist will examine your teeth and determine the right shape, size, color, and surface of the veneer that you want. The dentist will also take your picture before the consultation appointment. In the process, an impression of the teeth will also be made to create the veneers.

Once that’s done, you will be sent home and then notified at a later date to set up an appointment to get the veneers to be fitted on your teeth.

The Procedure Is Painless and Quick

One of the reasons why people are interested in getting this type of procedure done is because of how painless and quick it is. While veneers are not as quick as getting a filling or a tooth removed, it does not hurt too much.

Keep in mind, however, that a local anesthetic may be applied if required. This is usually the case if tooth decay is the underlying problem of your teeth. The dentist will use the anesthetic to ensure you don’t experience pain while the tissue is being removed, after which the veneers will be placed.

Veneers Can Last a Long Time

It is important to know that dental veneers can last up to 15 years at least. The biggest factor in how long your dental veneers will last is how well you take care of them, along with the material they’re made of, which will get to in a bit.

As a rule of thumb, you should always brush your teeth and floss at least twice a day. This will help keep your veneers pristine. You can also use whitening toothpaste to keep the veneers looking as white as they can be.

There Are Different Types of Veneers

As mentioned earlier, veneers can be made from different materials. Some are porcelain, others composite, and there are still a few others. Either way, most, if not all, of these veneers can easily last you ten years.

Again, while the material may have a huge impact on how long it lasts, keep in mind that good oral habits trumps all! It can be the difference between a veneer lasting a measly five years versus one that goes past 10.

Conclusion

The bottom line is that dental veneers are fantastic dental procedures to have. You can get it done as a stand-alone procedure or as a part of a more comprehensive dental plan. Either way, dental veneers can greatly improve the way your teeth look. And, now that you know more about veneers, we hope you’re more confident going into the procedure and, in the end, know that you’ll come out with a stunning smile!

Lexington Smile Studio offers exceptional dental services to help anyone and everyone get the stunning smile they deserve. If you are looking for the best veneers in Boston, get in touch with us today!

Reasons to Consider Clear Aligners Even as an Adult

There are many reasons why an adult should consider Invisalign, clear aligner teeth straightening technology. It is a system of plastic aligners that help patients fix tooth gaps and achieve good dental health. Invisalign helps orthodontic patients with malocclusion and other dental disorders.

Invisalign is a perfect alternative to metal braces. It is made from clear, comfortable plastic and uses a series of aligners that gradually straighten the teeth as they are worn over time. This way, the user can see his or her progress in real-time. Changing or removing the aligners is easy, too.

Here are some of the benefits of investing in Invisalign:

It Further Enables Dental Hygiene

The benefits of Invisalign clear aligners are that they are removable and that they help maintain dental hygiene. Unlike metal braces that interfere with good dental health, clear braces can be removed more easily. They also need not be cleaned as often as metal braces because food can get stuck in them.

They can brush and floss their teeth besides cleaning their aligners before putting them back on.

It Fixes Overbites and Underbites

One common concern of Invisalign users is the overbite or underbite that they might have. You have an overbite if your teeth extend further than your lower jaw. The opposite of this is when the lower teeth extend further than the upper front teeth; this is an underbite. Overbite might be genetic, and it is also possible that your jaw did not develop properly during childhood. Underbites and overbites can result in gum irritation and tooth dysfunction if they are not treated.

They Are Affordable

With Invisalign, patients can be treated a lot more quickly and with fewer visits to the orthodontist. This makes Invisalign treatment very affordable, even for people on low incomes. Because of this, Invisalign is suitable for nearly anyone.

They Are Almost Unnoticeable

Not only are Invisalign aligners less expensive and more comfortable than braces, but they are also almost completely unobtrusive. Invisalign is made of clear aligners that fit over your teeth and can be removed easily; they look similar to a retainer. This helps fit Invisalign in with the rest of your teeth, creating a natural-looking smile.

They Do Not Limit Your Meal Time

If you’re a foodie using traditional braces, you’ll have to sample your favorite foods while avoiding certain bites due to the risk of damaging your braces. With Invisalign, though, there are few food restrictions. Since you can remove the aligners before you take a bite of your favorite meal, this is because the aligners protect your teeth from damage.

They Are Flexible and Comfortably Adjust to Your Teeth

Clear aligners have been improved significantly in recent years. Newer ones are thinner, they are attached in a way that feels comfortable, and they are even better at giving you a natural smile. An aesthetic expert can make your aligners fit your teeth comfortably and smoothly.

Conclusion

People wonder whether “am I too old for Invisalign?” The answer is simple. If you believe that you need to fix your teeth, Invisalign will do just that. Besides the fact that Invisalign is adjustable and convenient, it is also affordable.

Book your free consultation for Invisalign clear aligners with us here at Lexington Smile Studio today! We set the standards for exceptional care, providing a full range of dental services for your entire family!

What Is Nitrous Oxide and How Does It Work for Dentistry?

If you’ve heard of “laughing gas,” you’ve probably heard of nitrous oxide. Nitrous oxide is a naturally occurring gas commonly used in sedation dentistry. It is a very safe type of anesthesia when applied cautiously and under the supervision of a specialist.

What Is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide is a natural gas that makes up about 0.04 percent of the earth’s atmosphere. On its own, nitrous oxide is not very useful in the medical field. However, it is often mixed with oxygen in a 50:50 ratio for anesthesia and sedation in dentist’s offices.

Some people find it hard to calm down, sit still, or keep their mouth open during restorative care or a root canal. A simple and effective way to keep a patient calm while the dentist works is to give them nitrous oxide. 

Moreover, nitrous oxide is a good sedative for dentistry because it works quickly, is safe overall, and doesn’t take long for the patient to wake up after it’s given. N2O helps you relax while your teeth are fixed and lets you return to your everyday life quickly after your dentist visit.

How Does Nitrous Oxide Work?

When nitrous oxide is inhaled, it dissolves into the bloodstream quickly. This is why your body only needs 5 to 10 seconds to feel the effects of nitrous oxide.

The gas works by interfering with communication between nerves and the brain. This prevents pain messages from reaching the brain. The gas helps to relax the muscles and your body and is also known for its calming effects.

Nitrous oxide is most commonly used during procedures requiring patients to remain still and open their mouths. It helps to keep them relaxed and slows down their heart rate. This is useful for invasive oral and dental procedures that require the mouth to remain open for a long time.

Furthermore, this form of anesthesia can be used with other types, such as general anesthesia. Nitrous oxide often helps to alleviate anxiety and nervousness, which can be helpful when trying to perform dental treatment on children and nervous adults.

Are There Any Side Effects of Nitrous Oxide?

There aren’t many side effects associated with nitrous oxide, but there are a few.

A common side effect is nausea. This can be a problem if you must be awake for several hours after being treated. If you have a procedure that lasts longer than a few minutes, your dentist might give you a small dose of painkillers before giving you the N2O.

Other side effects include minor dizziness, headaches, and even a type of intoxication that feels like a hangover. Nitrous oxide is a very safe and effective method of relieving anxiety. It’s an excellent choice for the proper patient who knows what to expect.

Conclusion

Nitrous oxide is a safe and effective way to minimize pain and anxiety. It’s an easy, effective way to relax patients who would otherwise be too nervous or anxious to undergo dental treatment.

Dental procedures are often uncomfortable, but nitrous oxide is a great way to make them less so. It’s a safe and effective way to quell your fears during dental treatments.

If you are looking for the best cosmetic dentist near you, Lexington Smile Studio is here to help! We set the benchmark for exceptional care by offering family dental services. We offer cosmetic, prosthodontic, implant, periodontic, and laser dentistry. Contact us for a consultation today!

Why the Frequency of Dental Cleanings Varies for Everyone

Most people are aware that visiting the dentist is important. However, the question of how often to do it is where a lot of people tend to have different opinions, particularly on the question of dental cleanings. Many experts suggest that a bi-annual cleaning is recommended for everyone. However, some studies suggest otherwise. Let’s dive deep into how often you should be going to the dentist to have your teeth cleaned.

Why Regular Dental Cleanings Are Necessary

Dental cleanings are a necessity as they help to remove plaque, tartar, and other particles that could eventually lead to serious dental problems. This includes gum disease, cavities, and even oral cancer.

Whether or not you had dental cleaning in the past, it’s essential that you continue to have them done on a regular schedule. Many people think that this is too expensive and can actually be bad for the teeth. However, the truth is that there is no substitute for dental cleanings done by a trained professional.

How Often Should You Go to the Dentist?

The question of how often to go to the dentist is a very important one. If you are not going to the dentist on a regular basis, it is crucial that you go as soon as possible. However, what is considered a regular basis? Most people would assume that going to the dentist every six months is a good idea. However, some studies suggest that this is not the case.

For those people who are in good health, it is suggested that you only need to go to the dentist once a year. However, if you have dental issues, it’s important that you go twice a year or even more. This is to make sure that the dental issues are caught and treated before they become worse.

Cleaning Frequency Based on Risk Factors

According to a study published in the Journal of Dental Research, preventive care for teeth and gums is crucial for people who smoke or have a history of diabetes and gum disease. These people are considered high-risk individuals and should be monitored on a more frequent basis.

Compared to low-risk individuals who have none of those factors associated with them, high-risk individuals have a six times more chance of developing gum disease. It is important for them to be monitored on a regular basis and to make sure that there is no further damage being done to the gums.

More frequent dental cleanings can help prevent tooth loss for people who have multiple risk factors for periodontal disease. These individuals typically need more than two cleanings per year. For people who only have one risk factor, two cleanings per year are usually enough to maintain good oral health.

Conclusion

Whether or not you think you have risk factors for some kind of dental issue, it is always a good idea to go to the dentist. 

They will be able to tell you if the frequency of your cleanings is the right amount for your particular situation. Regular cleanings will help to maintain your oral health and also prevent any kind of problems from happening in the future.

Finding a dental specialist you can trust is especially important if you want to prevent problems from arising in the first place. At Lexington Smile Studio, we have the most experienced dentists and dental specialists in the area. Our dental services include cosmetic dentistry, prosthodontics, implant dentistry, periodontics, and laser dentistry. Whenever you need help from a Lexington teeth whitening and oral health expert, our clinic is the place to be. Schedule an appointment today!