9 - 2020 - Edwards Family Dentistry

Sedation dentistry is used to help patients that suffer from anxiety or nerves when they walk into a dental office. At Edwards Family Dentistry in Little Rock, AR, we offer many options to help keep patients relaxed during a dental procedure. One of the most common options used is Nitrous Oxide.

Dr. Grace & Matt Edwards work with each patient to discuss the details of the recommended procedure, and this allows patients to choose which sedation method will work best. Our patients’ health and safety is our top priority, and we want our patients to know they are in good hands and will receive the very best care.

What Is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous Oxide is also known as “laughing gas”, and is given through a mask that is placed on the mouth. Combined with oxygen this gas enters the blood stream, and helps patients to relax during their dental procedure. Nitrous Oxide is safe and effective, and allows patients to be awake during their procedure. Once the procedure is complete the gas wears off quickly, and patients can return to normal activity.

Nitrous Oxide is the safest option for sedative dentistry and most patients tolerate it well. This method is reversible, and can be adjusted up or down during the procedure. Depending on the procedure, Nitrous Oxide can be used in combination with other sedative agents.

Who Can Benefit From Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous Oxide is used for patients that have been recommended for a long procedure, or those that may need multiple dental procedures. Patients that have a strong gag reflux, or have had prior anxiety during a dental visit may also benefit from Nitrous Oxide. If patients have a low tolerance for pain, Nitrous Oxide can help a patient stay calm and relaxed during their dental procedure. This method is helpful to both adults and children, and our staff always ensures each patient is comfortable and calm during their appointments in our office.

Looking For a Dentist Near You?

Our goal at Edwards Family Dentistry is to give each patient the very best care. If Nitrous Oxide is the right option, we will work with each patient and choose the best type of sedation dentistry that fits their needs. We want our patients to feel at home when they enter our office, and trust that we will take the very best care of them.

If you are interested in finding out more about Nitrous Oxide and how you can benefit from this method of sedation dentistry, contact our dental office in Little Rock, AR and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

Oral health is extremely important for many reasons. If patients suffer from gum disease, cavities, or bad breath this can cause issues with your teeth and mouth. Our mouths are a pathway for bacteria to enter the body. The bacteria are able to enter the blood stream, and this can also cause infection or inflammation in other parts of our body.

Taking good care of your teeth and mouth can keep your body healthy, and can also help avoid serious issues in the future. At Edwards Family Dentistry in Litle Rock, AR, we encourage our patients to practice good oral hygiene habits at home. We also promote overall health and wellness. Our team cares about each patient, and keeping up with your oral health not only can keep your teeth and mouth feeling great, but your body feeling great also.

What Problems Can Occur From Poor Oral Health?

Respiratory Infections

If you have infected or inflamed gums that bacteria can transfer into the lungs. This can lead to respiratory infections, pneumonia, or even bronchitis.

Dementia

Inflamed gums can release substances that are harmful to our brain cells. This can lead to memory loss that is a result of bacteria spreading to the nerves.

Cardiovascular Disease

If you have poor oral health you are at risk for cardiovascular disease. The bacteria from the infected gums enters the bloodstream, and can cause the arteries to build up plaque. This can put you at risk for a heart attack.

Prostate Problems

If men suffer from periodontal disease they may have prostatitis. This condition causes irritation and other prostate related problems.

Diabetes

Diabetics are more likely to have infected gums over those that do not have diabetes. This can make diabetes difficult to control due to unregulated blood sugar levels. Gum disease can lead to higher blood sugar levels and this can put a person at risk for developing diabetes.

Infertility

Poor oral health and infertility in women are linked. If a woman suffers from gum disease this can lead to issues with infertility, and may make it difficult for a woman to conceive or have a healthy pregnancy.

Cancer

Poor oral health can put patients at risk for kidney cancer, pancreatic cancer, or blood cancer. In addition if patients smoke or use tobacco products this can lead to oral or throat cancers.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

People who have gum disease are more likely to have Rheumatoid Arthritis. The bacteria in our mouths can increase inflammation in the body, and this increases the risk for developing Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Kidney Disease

Kidney disease is a health problem that affects the kidneys, heart, bones, and blood pressure. Periodontal disease can lead to kidney disease. Patients with gum disease typically have weaker immune systems, and this can make them susceptible to infection. Many patients that have poor oral health also have kidney disease, and this can lead to kidney failure if not treated.

How Can I Prevent These Health Issues?

In order to prevent serious health issues caused by bad oral health habits you must take care of your oral health. Scheduling regular dental exams in our office can help keep your teeth and gums clean, and get in front of any issues before they arise. Dr. Grace Edwards & Dr. Matt Edwards’ friendly Little Rock dental team always put our patients first, and complete a thorough exam of your teeth and mouth to ensure everything is looking and feeling great. If we do have concerns, we will discuss those with you and develop a customized treatment plan to take care of any issues right away.

Tips for Good Oral Hygiene

Brush and floss your teeth daily
Avoid smoking or using any tobacco products
Use mouthwash that contains fluoride
Try and stay away from food and drinks that contain lots of sugar
Eat a well-balanced diet
Exercise and take care of your overall health

If you take care of your oral health, you take care of your body. Good oral hygiene can help prevent problems such as gingivitis or periodontal disease, as well as prevent more serious health issues in your body.

Looking for a Family Dentist Near You?

At Edwards Family Dentistry, we provide the highest level of dental care for patients of all ages. We welcome all new patients, and use state of the art technology to ensure our patients have an exceptional experience when visiting our office.

If you are looking for a dentist near you, contact our dental office in Little Rock, AR to schedule your next dental exam and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

What Are the Uses for Nitrous Oxide?