Learning Center

Everything you need to know about sedation dentistry, dental implants and Invisalign!

Sedation Dentistry

We offer our patients several sedation therapy options in order to give those with any level of anxiety a comfortable appointment.

Video

What is IV Sedation?
Intravenous (IV) sedation dentistry will safely put you in a tranquil state of mind, meaning you will feel nothing and have virtually no memory of your treatment.

What is Oral Sedation Dentistry or Sleep Dentistry?

About an hour before your treatment, you will be given an oral medication that will put you to sleep through your appointment. When you wake up, all of your dental work will be done and you won’t remember any of it! You will need a responsible driver to take you to your appointment and drive you home.

What is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous Oxide, or laughing gas, is the most common form of sedation in dentistry. A doctor will administer the gas, which you will inhale, and you will slip into a relaxed, euphoric state while you get the treatment you need. When your procedure is over, the nitrous oxide will wear off quickly so you should be able to drive yourself home from your appointment. You will need to have a preliminary appointment to make sure that you are a proper candidate for nitrous oxide sedation therapy.

Who is a candidate for sedation?

If you have anxiety or fear about going to the dentist, you are a candidate for sedation dentistry. Sedation therapy can help you get over your anxiety from past experiences or fear of pain. If you are unsure if you are a candidate, ask your dentist.

Will I be unconscious?

No, but you will be in a deep state of relaxation during your treatment. You will be able to breathe and communicate on your own, without any feeling of pain or anxiety. You may not remember the procedure.

How long will I be sedated?

Sedation can last between 2-6 hours depending on the strength of the sedative you are given and how long your treatment takes.

Will I be monitored?

Yes, you will be monitored at all times during your sedation. Your safety is our primary goal.

Are there any long term effects of sedation?

No. You will feel a little groggy after some forms of sedation, but you will return to feeling normal in a few hours. In such cases, you will need to be driven home.

What procedures can be performed under sedation?

Almost all treatments can be performed with sedation. The sedation is not for the procedure itself, but for the anxiety that accompanies the procedure. You may ask your dentist if sedation is available for a particular procedure.

Will my insurance cover sedation?

In most cases, sedation is not covered by your insurance provider. We will review your insurance coverage and let you know if it is covered or not. If it is not covered, we will let you know the cost and put together a financing plan for you.

Implant Dentistry

Dental implants are a permanent solution to replace missing or extracted teeth. Dental implants are a good alternative to bridges or dentures because no additional teeth need to be altered.

Videos



Implant Poster
Implant Poster
Does your office have experience with implants?

Dr Michaels has over 15 years of experience placing and restoring dental implants. Only the highest quality materials and equipment are used to provide you your new implant. It will be the most attractive, functional, and durable implant possible.

What is the process like to get my implant?
From start to finish, the entire implant process should only take a few months. First, the implant itself will be installed using a screw placed in the jaw bone. A small incision will be made in the gum to insert the implant. If necessary, multiple implants can be placed in the same visit. After placement of the implant, the gums are sutured. During the next 3-6 months the implant must be allowed to heal. The jaw bone will form around the implant. This is called osseointegration.

After the implant has healed, the abutment will be placed on the implant. This acts as the base for your new tooth. Then an impression is taken and used to create your permanent restoration. The restoration will be created in a lab and once it is complete, you can return to our office to have the restoration permanently attached. Your smile will be new again! You will be able to eat, drink, speak, and smile the way you always used to without fear of your dentures falling out or being self-conscious about a gap in your smile.

How do I care for my implant?
Caring for your dental implants is just like caring for your natural teeth, with regular brushing, flossing and bi-annual dental cleanings and exams.
What if I have a narrow gap in my teeth and a regular implant will not fit?
In this situation, our office offers mini implants. They are about half the size in diameter of a regular implant. If the space in question is very narrow, mini implants may be the preferred solution because of their smaller size. They can also be used to install a full upper or lower denture. A row of mini implants can be placed along the gum line and serve as the base of the denture. A benefit to mini implants is that because of their size, an incision may not need to be made to place an implant. They can be inserted through the gum into the bone, eliminating a recovery period, and allowing the restoration to take place right away or in a follow up visit. A consultation will tell you if mini implants are right for you.

Invisalign

Videos

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is an alternative to traditional metal braces to straighten teeth. Invisalign employs a series of transparent, plastic trays that gradually straighten your teeth.

What are the benefits of Invisalign?

With Invisalign, you can achieve the straight smile you desire without the obvious metal brackets or wires. No one will know you are straightening your teeth! Because the trays are removable, you will be able to eat anything you want! The trays are custom made to fit your teeth, so they are comfortable to wear.

Am I a candidate for Invisalign?

Invisalign yields the best results for patients with mild to moderate spacing or crowding. If you are considering straightening your smile, make a consultation appointment with your dentist to find out if you are a good candidate for Invisalign!