What Is Family Dentistry and What Treatments Does It Involve?

by | Aug 20, 2019 | Dental

Family dentistry in Frisco provides services for patients of all ages. It can include pediatric dentistry and orthodontics as well as treatments for adults like root canals or wisdom tooth extractions. Family dentistry at Frisco also encompasses preventive dentistry, which includes procedures that most people associate with going to the dentist, such as routine exams, dental cleanings, and oral cancer screenings.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

A lot of people feel anxious about going to the dentist – especially when they face the prospect of undergoing a procedure that they have heard is really painful, such as a root canal. In sedation dentistry, the dentist will provide a sedative to keep the patient calm and relaxed while they work. Sedation dentistry is particularly helpful for patients undergoing long and complicated procedures like dental implants or wisdom tooth extractions.

The dentist may provide nitrous oxide, an oral sedative, or IV sedation. Nitrous oxide, otherwise known as “laughing gas,” is the mildest sedative. The patient will wear a mask over their nose and inhale the gas during treatment. Nitrous oxide has the advantage of wearing off quickly, so the patient will be able to drive home after the procedure.

The other two methods use stronger sedatives, and the patient will still be groggy after treatment. They will thus need somebody to take them home.

When Should a Child Start Visiting the Dentist?

Parents should start bringing children to the dentist when they are around six months old and have their first tooth. The dentist will examine the child’s mouth and teach parents how to keep their child’s gums and teeth clean. Children should start seeing the dentist every six months for preventive care by the time they are three years old. The dentist may also recommend fluoride treatments to strengthen the enamel on the child’s teeth or dental sealants to help prevent cavities and plaque accumulation.

Contact Lone Star Dental Care to learn more about family dentistry in Frisco or visit our website today.

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