FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

Sedation Dentistry Questions

How does the sedation medication work?
Sedative medications reduce your brain's ability to feel anxiety or nervousness. At the same time, these medications have no significant effects on your heart or your ability to breathe. For these reasons, these medications have proven to be effective and safe.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
Sedation dentistry is safe and effective when administered by a trained professional. We carefully monitor all sedated patients with computerized monitoring equipment specifically designed for this purpose. We are constantly aware of your needs as we monitor your blood pressure, heart rate, breathing and other signs of comfort.

Can you do multiple procedures while I'm sedated?
In a word: yes! Conscious sedation often makes your dental visit easier both for you and your dentist. While sedated, we can correct dental problems that might have been present for many years. This includes crowns, fillings, root canals, removal of wisdom teeth, treatment for gum disease and cosmetic dental procedures.

Your appointment can be as short as one or two hours; however, appointments may extend to several hours—whatever is necessary to meet your individual treatment plan. Some patients have found it to be easier and more convenient to accomplish multiple dental procedures during one dental visit using conscious sedation.

Is it OK to drink alcohol or take other drugs prior to my appointment?
No! Alcohol, prescription drugs, and illegal drugs can cause serious problems when combined with the sedative medications we use. You must inform us of any medicines or drugs that you are taking, whether prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal, so that we can safely plan your sedation.

Do medical problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes, etc.; affect my ability to be sedated for my dental care?
Such conditions are examined on a patient-by-patient basis. In most cases, we can complete your dental care utilizing the benefits of sedation. If necessary, we can contact your physician to clarify the extent and severity of any medical conditions you may have.

Will I feel sick as a result of the sedation after my appointment?
No, it is extremely unusual to experience sickness following sedation. The medications that we use to sedate you don't generally cause nausea or vomiting. We will monitor you and can administer additional medications if needed.

What is the best time of day to schedule my sedation appointment?
We recommend that you schedule your appointment as early in the day as possible if you are going to be sedated. You must avoid all eating and drinking for 8 hours prior to your appointment (unless you have been given special instructions from us). If your appointment is scheduled early, you will spend less time feeling hungry and thirsty.

Will my dental insurance cover the cost of my dental care and sedation?
It depends on the provisions of your individual policy, as most insurance plans provide coverage for only minimal levels of dental care. In our experience, dental insurance will provide little or no coverage for dental care involving fillings, cosmetic changes, crowns, surgery, root canals and treatment of gum disease. Many companies provide no coverage for the sedation itself. Those dental procedures that are covered are often subject to deductibles and small annual benefits.

LUMINEERS® Questions I've heard that a veneer procedure hurts?
Is that true with LUMINEERS®?It's true that because most veneer procedures require a substantial amount of tooth structure removal, that there is pain and discomfort involved. LUMINEERS is completely different because there is no need for grinding, cutting or filing of teeth in almost all cases.

Consequently, no anesthetic or numbing shots are needed. Plus, no uncomfortable temporaries are required while you wait for your LUMINEERS to be created. Once the procedure is completed, there is no post-replacement discomfort or sensitivity, which means they will look natural and feel comfortable from the start.

I think I need braces, but I really don't want to go through the inconvenient, unsightly and time-intensive process. Can I get LUMINEERS instead?
In most cases, the answer is yes. Your dentist will be able to evaluate your teeth and decide whether orthodontics is necessary. If you do not have a severe problem, LUMINEERS will change the shape and alignment of the teeth, making them look straighter and more uniform.

Can LUMINEERS be taken off if I want them removed?
Yes, LUMINEERS are completely reversible. This is largely due to the no reduction in sensitive tooth structure so that your natural teeth are still intact and strong.

With LUMINEERS, do I need to use special toothpaste or floss a different way?
LUMINEERS is similar in structure to real tooth enamel. Consequently, you should always try to choose low-abrasion toothpaste that will remove plaque, stain and tartar gently but effectively.

With LUMINEERS, can I still chew gum and eat my favorite sticky foods like corn or candy?
There are no limitations to what you can eat or drink, as LUMINEERS are placed over original teeth in the most durable way possible. However, you should continue to visit your dentist every six months for a check-up and cleaning to keep your LUMINEERS in good condition and to qualify for the Warranty.

Zoom®! Questions Answered Whitening is backed up by research and many clinical studies have determined that such procedures are safe with the assistance of a dental professional. Additionally, many dentists consider whitening to be the safest of all available cosmetic procedures. Whitening is not recommended for children under the age of 13 and pregnant or lactating women.

The Zoom! procedure only affects colored substances inside the enamel and dentin, leaving the surface of the tooth unchanged. The active ingredient in Zoom!, which is Hydrogen Peroxide, allows oxygen to enter the tooth and bleach colored substances.

Most patients feel comfortable during the procedure. However, patients with a strong gag reflex or high levels of anxiety may feel some discomfort during the procedure. All soft tissue around the mouth is protected, and a dental professional is always present to monitor the entire procedure and ensure that all tissue is protected. Patients must wear eyewear. Those taking light-sensitive drugs (prescription or non-prescription) should consult their physician before undergoing the procedure.

The procedure is broken up into two stages: the preparations before the actual whitening procedure, followed by the actual bleaching process. A cleaning is also recommended before the procedure.

Sensitivity and tingling during the procedure may occur, caused by the heat generated by the Zoom! light. The discomfort is minimal. With proper care and minimal maintenance your brighter smile will last for years. Patients are given a take-home kit that they can utilize to correct any discoloration that may appear after the procedure.

For more information about sedation dentistry or to request an appointment for one of our dental services contact us in Laurel, Maryland.
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