Understanding Sedation Dentistry: What You Need to Know

November 4, 2023 admin 0 Comments 12:00 am

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Sedation dentistry is easy to understand. Essentially,sedation dentistry helps you rest through dental treatment. Dental sedation is safe and easy for most people.

Dental Anxiety is Real.

Nearly half of all Americans experience at least some dental anxiety.

Dental anxiety comes in many shapes and forms. Some people are fearful of major dental procedures. Others simply don’t like any reason to be in the dentist’s chair. If this sounds like you,you are not alone. Dr. Frahm can help you alleviate your fear and anxiety with sedation dentistry.

If you are very fearful of an upcoming dental appointment,you’re a candidate for sedation dentistry. Some of the reasons people opt for sedation dentistry are:

You had a difficult dental experience earlier in life.
You feel very uncomfortable having other people so close to your face.
You need to be in the dentist’s chair a long time for a major procedure.
You have sensitive teeth.
It’s hard for you to sit still during treatment.
You have a bad gag reflex.
You live with trauma-related symptoms or experience PTSD.

Types of Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry uses medication to induce relaxation. Dental sedation methods are designed leave you conscious,in a resting state,without discomfort. And of course,Dr. Frahm uses local anesthetic to numb areas for treatment.

The types of sedation dentistry include:

Minimal sedation with nitrous oxide or laughing gas. Nitrous oxide is administered through a mask that is placed over your nose. It’s likely you’ll feel awake but relaxed. The effects tend to wear off quickly. You may be able to drive yourself home afterwards.
Moderate oral sedation is also called oral conscious sedation. It is induced with a pill taken about an hour before treatment. It’s a type of Valium that makes you feel relaxed and a little sleepy. You rest in a twilight-state during care. Our team of dental professionals monitors your heart rate,blood pressure,and oxygen intake throughout the treatment process. When care is complete,we wake you to go home. We help you out to ride home. A companion will need to drive you to and from care. It’s best if they stay with you at home for a few hours after,as well. Dr. Frahm will call in the evening to see how you are feeling.
I.V. Sedation is recommended for oral surgeries and for patients who do not respond to other forms of sedation care. I.V. sedation is Valium-like medication administered intravenously. You will be conscious and feel relaxed during treatment. You will be able to respond to questions,but you won’t remember much. This type of sedation requires that you fast before the procedure. You will need a companion to accompany you to your care visit. They will need to drive you to and from care and stay with you while you rest afterwards. Dr. Frahm will call a few hours after care to check on your condition.

Holistic Dentistry’s Role in Reducing Stress

Dr. Frahm is an expert in both minimal sedation with nitrous oxide and oral sedation dentistry. She has completed rigorous,post-doctoral training with the Doctors for Oral Conscious Sedation Education organization and is Oral Conscious Sedation (OCS) certified. In advance of your visit,Dr. Frahm discusses your anxiety level with you. Together,you will decide the ways in which she can provide comfortable care during your next visit. Our office is designed with you in mind. With amenities like organic aroma therapy,neck pillows and cozy blankets,your comfort is our priority.

If you have a fear of dental work,you are not alone. Dr. Frahm will carefully discuss your needs with you to determine which form of sedation care works best for you.

Learn More About Sedation Dentistry

Understanding the procedure for getting a composite fillingUnderstanding the procedure for getting a composite filling

Getting a composite filling involves a simple,and usually quick dental procedure.

If you have ever had a cavity,there are several types of material that dentists use for fillings,including composite. In recent years,composite fillings have become preferable to amalgam,gold and silver.

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Why do people need fillings?

Dentists use fillings primarily to repair teeth with cavities. Dr. Frahm may also use composite material to repair chipped,cracked,or broken teeth. Composite fillings support the structural integrity of your tooth by preventing further tooth decay.

What are composite fillings?

Composite fillings are made of a mixture of liquid acrylic resin reinforced with finely ground ceramic. Composite is a non-toxic material that naturally bonds to your tooth structure. This means composite fillings are powerfully strong,very durable,and highly resistant to breaking and fracturing.

Composite fillings are appealing to patients because composite can be closely matched to the natural color of your existing teeth. This makes composite fillings more aesthetically pleasing because it closely resemble your natural tooth enamel. This is what also makes them well-suited for use in front teeth and other visitable teeth.

What is the procedure for getting a composite filling?

The process for getting a composite filling is straightforward and can usually be completed in one dental visit. Here’s how it works:

Dr. Frahm starts by selecting the shade of composite to use in your filling.
You’ll then get a shot of local anesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding area. Chances are you’ve had this procedure in the past,so you know it’s a quick pinch that starts to work quickly. You’ll remain awake during the procedure,unless you’d prefer to sedation dentistry to help you feel more relaxed.
Next,Dr. Frahm works to remove the decayed part of your tooth before cleaning and drying the area. This usually takes just a few minutes.
From there,Dr. Frahm will etch and bond your tooth. This ensures that your tooth can better absorb and lock in the bonding resin to your tooth’s enamel and dentin surface.
Then,the custom-matched composite material is layered into the area where your cavity once was. Between each layer,a special light is used to cure and set the filling.
This is the stage at which the artistry begins. In placing the composite,Dr. Frahm fully shapes and contours your new filling before polishing it to a lustrous shine.
Finally,you’ll be asked to bite down to make sure your teeth are correctly aligned. Dr. Frahm will make adjustments as needed.

If you are looking for a beautiful,radiant smile,or are looking to replace old amalgam or metal fillings,we’re here for you. Dr. Frahm will discuss your options with you,and our holistic approach to dental care always keeps your long-term wellness in mind. Contact Dr. Frahm today at 831-372-8011. Our office is conveniently located at 660 Camino Aguajito #201 in Monterey,CA 93940.

You can also learn more with the link below.

Dr. Sarah Frahm

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What are Social Security Survivor Benefits?What are Social Security Survivor Benefits?

Social security benefits are mostly known for those of partial or full retirement age,though there are several different types of benefits,such as survivor benefits. The official name of the program is Old-Age Survivors and Disability Insurance (OASDI) which helps your spouse or dependents receive a passed-on spouse’s social security benefits on top of their own.

Below you’ll find information that gives a more in-depth understanding of a widow’s social security benefit derived from their spouse and some advice on how to navigate the complex rules of the program.

Who Qualifies for Social Security Survivors Benefits?

To qualify for social security survivor benefits,you’ll have to meet the requirements for eligibility,which include:

You must be a widow or widower of any age who is caring for the deceased’s child or children under the age of 16,or who are disabled.
- Step-children,grandchildren,step-grandchildren,and adopted children can be included under certain circumstances
A widow or widower who is 60 years older or more who has not remarried
Any unmarried children of the deceased who are younger than 18 years old or have a disability that surfaced before 22 years old.
Parents that are 62 years or older that were dependent on the deceased for at least half of their income and whose social security income would not be larger than of the deceased’s children.
A surviving divorced spouse may receive benefits if they meet other eligibility requirements

Another point of qualification is shared with social security retirement requirements,meaning you would have to have worked a certain number of years and gained the proper amount of credits each year for your loved ones to be eligible for the benefits.

How are Social Security Benefits Calculated for a Widow?

How the benefits are calculated for a widow can quickly become complex as there are several provisions for different circumstances. One such provision is the one-time death benefit payment of $225,which can be issued if the deceased spouse either lived with the widow(er) or was receiving social security benefits on their record. If there is no surviving spouse,the one-time payment can be given to a child who is eligible for the benefits. Another provision is if the death leaves a spouse with dependent children,which allows the benefits to be paid to them if the deceased had earned at least 6 credits within the three calendar years prior to their passing.

To gain the benefits,a specific amount of credits are needed to be eligible,depending on the age of the spouse who has passed. The younger they are,the fewer credits are needed,but the maximum required is 40. Also,just as with the Social Security Administration’s retirement SSI program,the amount of survivors benefits depends on the average lifetime earnings of the spouse who passed. The more that was earned,the higher the benefit till a maximum amount is reached.

How Big Can the Benefits Be?

The benefits survivors receive can depend on their age and the type of relationship they had with the deceased:

Widow(er) Benefits

If at the full retirement age,the surviving spouse can receive the total amount of the deceased’s benefits. If they are between the ages of 60 and full retirement age,they can receive between 71% to 99% of the amount. A disabled spouse between 50 and 59 years of age can receive up to 71%,and a spouse caring for a child under the age of 16 at any age can receive up to 75%. A divorced spouse,if they qualify as previously mentioned,can receive the same amounts listed above.

Children and Parent Benefits

Children under the age of 18,or 19 if still in school or disabled,can receive 75% of the deceased parent’s benefit. A parent that is dependent on the deceased is eligible to receive 82% of the benefits,but if both parents are alive and were dependents,then they each can collect 75%.

As you can see,it can become quite complicated to ensure you receive your social security from your loved one. Here at Marken Law Group,we have a comprehensive understanding of social security benefits for surviving spouses. We understand how stressful benefits can be and don’t want to add to your plate during this sad and stressful time. Partner with an experienced ally that is by your side from start to finish with a qualified social security lawyer to help you through this process to secure your benefits.

Marken Law Group | No Benefits

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Complications of Untreated Nasal Polyps: Potential Risks and Long-Term EffectsComplications of Untreated Nasal Polyps: Potential Risks and Long-Term Effects

Understanding Nasal Polyps and Their Impact on Health

Nasal polyps are soft,noncancerous growths inside the nose and sinuses. They hang like drops or pears,partially obstructing the nasal airway.

Nasal polyps form because of constant irritation of the internal lining of the nose from allergies,asthma,and other chronic or long-lasting inflammatory diseases.

Nasal polyps can impact health by continuing the cycle of chronic inflammation.

Chronic inflammation causes nasal polyps. Nasal polyps obstruct the nasal airway and worsen the inflammation. Thus,visiting your health professional for diagnosis,treatment,and prognosis is important.

The Connection Between Nasal Polyps and Chronic Inflammatory Disease

It is not yet understood why some people develop nasal polyps while others don’t. There is evidence that people with different immune system responses develop polyps and people with different chemical markers in their nasal lining that produce mucus. Nasal polyps are most common in young adults and middle-aged adults.

Nasal polyps are associated with chronic nasal and sinus inflammation,aka chronic rhinosinusitis,lasting 12 weeks or more. Chronic rhinosinusitis can result from chronic inflammatory diseases such as recurring infections or allergies.

Potential complications can arise from the coexistence of nasal polyps and chronic inflammatory diseases. Nasal polyps can block airflow and normal drainage in the nasal cavity,negatively impacting recovery. Complications then occur if left untreated.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Nasal Polyps

Chronic sinusitis with nasal symptoms can feel like a cold. But a cold goes away after a few days. Here are common symptoms associated with nasal polyps:

Persistent stuffiness that causes difficulty breathing through the nose
Less sense of smell
Less sense of taste
Postnasal drip that causes a constant need to swallow
Runny nose
Snoring
Headache
Pain over the face and in upper teeth
Pressure over your forehead and face where the sinuses are
Itching around the eyes
Cough
Frequent nosebleeds

Why Seeking Healthcare Provider Expertise is Essential

With the symptoms and cascading complications from chronic inflammation,it is important to consult your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. They can diagnose based on your symptoms and medical history through their expertise. Or they can refer you to other healthcare providers that can give diagnostic tests. Here are diagnostic tools and techniques healthcare providers can use to confirm whether you have nasal polyps.

Nasoscope

Your healthcare provider can use a non-invasive technique by looking into your nasal cavity with a lighted instrument called a nasoscope or otoscope.

Nasal Endoscopy

Your healthcare provider can perform a nasal endoscopy if the nasal polyp is possibly deeper inside your sinuses. In this procedure,your healthcare provider will guide a thin,lightweight,and flexible tube with a light and camera on the end into your nasal passages.

CTI or MRI

Once polyps are confirmed in the nasal cavity,the healthcare provider must know their exact size and location. They will use a CT scan or MRI scan to do so. The scans will confirm if the polyps have deformed the bone area or rule out other types of growth,such as cancerous growth.

Allergy Tests

Aside from finding polyps,your healthcare provider must also determine the source of your chronic inflammation. They may perform allergy tests.

Allergy tests involve testing liquid variations of different allergens on the skin of your forearm or upper back. You may feel minimal pricking after the substances make contact with your skin. After 15 minutes,your healthcare provider will check for allergic reactions.

Blood Test

They may also order a blood test to check for low levels of Vitamin D associated with nasal polyps.

Potential Risks of Untreated Nasal Polyps

If left untreated,complications can arise and affect nasal function and breathing with long-term effects. Nasal polyps and chronic inflammation can increase susceptibility to sinus infections and cause recurrent allergies. With obstructed nasal function,breathing is also affected,causing reduced sleep quality and fatigue.

Increased Susceptibility to Sinus Infections and Recurrent Allergies

Untreated nasal polyps can also worsen the symptoms of sinus infections and allergies. It can block nasal passages and prevent drainage of stagnant mucus. Prolonged inflammation can weaken the body’s immune response and cause complications such as:

Bacterial sinus infections of the tissues around the brain and spinal cord (meningitis)
Bacterial sinus infections of the sinus bones (osteitis)
Bacterial sinus infections of the tissues around the eye (orbital cellulitis)
Asthmatic flare-ups

The Importance of Timely Diagnosis and Treatment

Due to the possible complications of untreated nasal polyps,early detection and intervention is important. With timely diagnosis,symptoms can be managed and avoid complications. Below are the two treatment options for nasal polyps: medical treatment,such as nasal sprays,and surgical intervention.

Medications and Nasal Sprays in Managing Nasal Polyps

There are different medications to reduce polyp size and relieve symptoms of congestion.

Nasal Steroids
Oral Corticosteroids
Injectable corticosteroids
Dupilumab
Antihistamine and Antibiotics

Surgical Intervention: When is it Necessary?

An indication for surgical intervention is the persistence of symptoms,even with drug treatment. Most surgical procedures for nasal polyp removal are outpatient procedures.

General or local anesthesia is used for the surgery. General anesthesia makes the patient unconscious for the procedure,so they don’t feel any pain. Patients under local anesthesia may feel pressure with no discomfort.

Polypectomy requires a microdebride that cuts the polyps into small pieces as it moves back and forth. At the same time,its suction removes the debrided tissue.

Endoscopic sinus surgery is used to remove larger polyps. The endoscope allows the healthcare provider to see inside your nose. Specialized instruments are used to remove the polyps.

Trust Puget Sound Sinus Center for Expert Care

If nasal polyps are left untreated,diagnosis and treatment can seem daunting. But with Puget Sound Sinus Center by your side,we ensure a comfortable experience with holistic patient-centered care.

Puget Sound Sinus Center comprises a team of experienced sinus specialists dedicated to giving patients personalized and compassionate care with state-of-the-art treatments and advanced techniques.

Click below for more information

Dr. Amy Anstead

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