St. Louis Sedation, Sleep & Special Needs Dentistry :: The Dental Anesthesia Center

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What to Do if You Have a Dental-Related Emergency

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A dental problem that requires immediate treatment to save a tooth, alleviate severe pain, or stop ongoing bleeding tissue is considered a dental emergency.

Dental-related emergencies are a common occurrence for many Americans. They can be caused by many different situations, such as dental trauma.

If you are suffering from a severe dental-related emergency, you must seek immediate dental care. Specific dental emergencies cannot wait for treatment, while others may not be as urgent, and you can wait to see your dentist during regular business hours.

Oral Pain

Do you have tooth or mouth pain? Experiencing a severe toothache can be one of the worst types of pain to endure. The first step in evaluating oral pain is to determine its origin. Dental sources are the most common. However, pain issuing from nondental sources such as migraine headache, maxillary sinusitis, myofascial inflammation, nasal tissues, and ears must be considered and excluded.

Some of the most common causes of dental pain include:

  • Cavities – Also known as dental caries, cavities are a bacterial disease of the teeth. They are permanently damaged areas in the teeth that develop into tiny holes. Tooth pain occurs when the nerve in the root of a tooth or surrounding the tooth is irritated.
  • Gingivitis – This is inflammation of the gums, or gingiva. Some of the symptoms include swollen, painful gums that bleed easily. If this persists, it’s important to make an appointment with your dentist. While gingivitis is a non-destructive type of periodontal disease, if left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis.
  • Periodontal disease – This is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. An acute gum infection can damage gums and can destroy the jawbone.
  • Tooth Abscess – A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus that is caused by a bacterial infection. It can occur in different regions of the tooth for various reasons. An abscess can be characterized by a painful, swollen lump that’s filled with pus. There may also be swelling of the face or cheek, or tender and swollen lymph nodes under the jaw.

Dental Trauma

Dental trauma is a prevalent problem. Children are especially affected, with 1/3 of 5-year-olds having suffered an injury to their primary teeth, and 1/4 of 12-year-olds having sustained an injury to their permanent teeth.

There are many different types of injuries and problems that can result in damage to your teeth and the structures around your teeth. If you experience some sort of dental trauma, you must speak to your dentist as soon as possible. In some cases, you may need to visit an emergency room.

Some of the common types of dental trauma include:

  • Tooth Fractures – A tooth fracture involves the chipping or cracking of a tooth. This may occur during blunt trauma to the mouth, such as in a car accident or sports injury. It may also involve accidentally biting a hard substance that compromises the enamel and dentin of a tooth. Treatment depends on the severity of the fractures, but generally, bonding, dental veneers, or dental crowns may be used to repair this dental trauma.
  • Loss of a Tooth – This often occurs in accidents and blunt trauma, like the ones mentioned above. In the majority of cases, the upper row of teeth is more prone to being knocked out than those on the bottom. If it’s possible, try to retain the knocked out tooth, rinse it with clean water or milk.
  • Displaced Tooth – This is a tooth that’s not entirely knocked out but is instead shifted out of position. This may make the tooth appear longer or shorter. Physical injury is typically responsible for this type of trauma.

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The Only Board Certified Dental Anesthesiologists in the State of Missouri, including the St. Louis Metro Area.

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What’s the Difference Between Gingivitis and Periodontitis?

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To effectively protect your mouth, it’s important to know the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis. By doing so, you’ll be able to identify issues quickly and seek proper dental treatment.

You have likely heard of the terms gingivitis, gum disease, periodontitis, and periodontal disease. But you may be less familiar with what they are and what causes them.

Good oral health includes much more than just brushing your teeth and flossing. Maintaining a healthy mouth also involves keeping your gums healthy. However, even if you cultivate good oral health habits, an illness like cancer or diabetes can affect the condition of your gums. Also, certain medications can affect your oral health.

To effectively protect your mouth, it’s important to know the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis. By doing so, you’ll be able to identify issues quickly and seek proper dental treatment.

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums, or gingiva. It generally occurs because a film of plaque, or bacteria, accumulates on the teeth. While gingivitis itself is a non-destructive type of periodontal disease, it can progress to periodontitis if left untreated. However, it’s also important to know that not all gingivitis leads to periodontitis.

Gingivitis is a form of periodontal, or gum, disease that causes the gums to be inflamed. It is caused by poor oral hygiene. Symptoms of gingivitis include:

  • Swollen or puffy gums
  • Receding gums
  • Tender gums
  • Bleeding gums
  • Bad breath

In the early stages of gum disease, bacteria in plaque build up causes the gums to become inflamed and may cause them to bleed when brushing. Even though the gums are irritated, the teeth are still firmly rooted in their sockets. At this stage, no irreversible bone or tissue damage has occurred.

What is Periodontitis?

Periodontitis is a more serious condition. When gingivitis is left untreated, it can lead to periodontitis. For a person with periodontitis, the inner layer of the gum and bone pull away from the teeth and pockets form. Debris collects in and between these small spaces and the area can become infected. As the plaque spreads and grows below the gum line, the immune system fights the bacteria.

As this process progresses, the toxins produced by the bacteria begin to break down the bone and connective tissue which is what holds the teeth in place. If left untreated, the pockets get larger and more tissue and bone are destroyed in the process. When this happens, the teeth are no longer secured and then begin to loosen and will eventually fall out.

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

Plaque build-up is the primary cause of gum disease. However, there are other factors to consider. Some of these include:

  • Hormonal changes, like those experienced during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can make the gums more sensitive and can make gingivitis easier to develop.
  • Many illnesses can affect the condition of the gums. Some of these include HIV and cancer. Persons with diabetes are at higher risk because the disease affects the body’s ability to use blood sugar. High blood pressure, heart disease, osteoporosis, and long-term kidney disease can also affect oral health.
  • Oral health can be affected by certain types of medications. Some types lessen the flow of saliva, which protects the teeth and gums. Others can cause abnormal growth of gum tissue.
  • Bad habits like smoking make it difficult for gum tissue to repair itself.
  • Poor oral hygiene is one of the leading causes of gum disease. Not brushing or flossing daily can cause gingivitis.

How is Gum Disease Treated?

To treat gum disease, the goal is to promote the reattachment of healthy gums to the teeth. It’s important to reduce the inflammation and reduce the small spaces that have formed between the teeth and gums. Treatment options depend on the stage of the gum disease, how you respond to other treatments, and on your overall health.

At The Dental Anesthesia Center, we will go over the treatment options with you. We will access your overall health and come up with the best possible options.

Call Us Today

The Only Board Certified Dental Anesthesiologists in the State of Missouri, including the St. Louis Metro Area.

Call (314) 862-7844

How Breastfeeding Affects the Oral Health of Your Baby

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When a baby is breastfed, the breast milk provides essential nutrients they need to develop properly and thrive and this includes their jaw and teeth.

Breastfeeding has proven to have countless benefits for both mother and baby. Most people are aware that breastfeeding protects against eczema and allergies, reduces the risk of certain infections and viruses, and that it can even lessen the threat of SIDS. But breastfeeding can also have positive effects on the oral health of your baby.

Essential Nutrients are Essential!

When a baby is breastfed, the breast milk provides essential nutrients they need to develop properly and thrive. To make sure your baby’s gums and teeth, once the erupt, are strong and healthy, these nutrients are essential. Breast milk contains proteins that help build strong jaw muscles, fatty acids that help reduce inflammation, and vitamins needed for good oral health.

Helps with Bite Alignment

Interestingly, the sucking mechanisms are different for bottle-fed and breastfed babies. In a recent study researches discovered that babies who are breastfed exclusively for the first six months of their life were 72% less likely to develop crooked teeth. This is because breastfeeding stimulates muscle tone in the jaw. After all, it requires the use of the jaw muscles more than bottle-feeding.

It’s important to remember though that every child is different. Breastfeeding is not a guarantee that a child will not have orthodontic issues in the future. Many other factors contribute to bite alignments such as pacifier use, thumb-sucking, and genetics.

Decreases Risk of Tooth Decay

Breastfed babies typically have a reduced risk of developing cavities. This is because they are not at risk of baby bottle tooth decay. When a baby is put to bed with a bottle containing milk, formula, or juice, baby bottle tooth decay can develop.

Once your baby begins teething, it’s important to start brushing them with a small, soft toothbrush and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste at least two times a day. As your child grows, it’s important that they also go to the dentist for regular checkups and teeth cleanings.

Call Us Today

The Only Board Certified Dental Anesthesiologists in the State of Missouri, including the St. Louis Metro Area.

Call (314) 862-7844

The Importance of Pediatric Dentistry for Children with Special Needs

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At The Dental Anesthesia Center, children with special physical or mental needs can receive complete dental care in a comfortable setting.

Every child needs to develop good oral hygiene and have routine dental care. However, for children with special needs, they are often at higher risk of developing gum disease and tooth decay, as well as sustaining oral trauma.

Whether your child has a condition that is congenital, developmental, or the result of a disease, special dental care is so important to their overall health. At The Dental Anesthesia Center, children with special physical or mental needs can receive complete dental care in a comfortable setting. Our team is compassionate and here to help patients accomplish dental care that they may have never had before.

What are Some of the Challenges?

Many children with special needs often have a lot of sensitivity around their mouths. As a child develops, parents and children will need help to deal with future oral structure changes and possible feeding issues. Other children with special needs often have a difficult time opening their mouths completely due to problems with the development of the jaw. This may make tasks like brushing and flossing difficult and make them more prone to gum disease and cavities. Some children with sensory challenges are often averse to the texture and sensation of a toothbrush or toothpaste in their mouth.

Not only can these challenges make oral health difficult to maintain, but they can make going to the dentist difficult. That’s why it’s so important for parents to find a pediatric dentist that is skilled in working with children with special needs. An experienced dentist will be a therapeutic partner for your child, one who listens and provides helpful resources.

Creating an Enjoyable Dental Experience

Any child may have a difficult time acclimating to the dentist at first. This can be even more true for a child with special needs. Working with a special needs pediatric dentist will enable your family to create a program that caters to your child’s specific mental, emotional, and physical needs. This in turn will create an enjoyable and comfortable dental experience for both your child and you.

Sedation Dentistry is an Option

For special needs children who have sensory challenges or high anxiety, sedation dentistry, or sleep dentistry, can be a safe and excellent option. It can offer you and your child the best experience, ensuring that your child receives the best dental care.

At The Dental Anesthesia Center, Dr. Hoffmann and Dr. Thoms complete dental procedures for patients with special needs requiring general anesthesia or sedation. Individuals with special physical or mental needs can receive complete dental care in a comfortable setting. Patients with special needs can have a thorough exam that includes taking x-rays and receiving a dental cleaning with general anesthesia.

Call us today to schedule your appointment. We look forward to meeting you!

Call Us Today

The Only Board Certified Dental Anesthesiologists in the State of Missouri, including the St. Louis Metro Area.

Call (314) 862-7844

Don’t Let Dental Fear Keep You from Getting the Treatment You Need

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Modern and safe anesthesia techniques can allow you to have dental procedures done without the anxiety associated with dentistry.

It is estimated that between 9% and 20% of Americans avoid going to the dentist due to anxiety or fear. So if you fear going to the dentist, you are definitely not alone.

Sometimes the term dental phobia is used interchangeably with dental anxiety, but dental phobia is a more serious condition. People with dental phobia are terrified of going to the dentist. They typically understand that their fear is irrational, but it doesn’t help change the way the feel.

Whether it’s dental fear, anxiety, or phobia, patients with these feelings usually don’t go to the dentist until forced to do so because they are in extreme pain.

What Causes Phobia and Anxiety?

There are a number of reasons why a person may be nervous or scared of going to the dentist. Some of the most common reasons include:

  • Fear of pain: This is a very common reason. This fear generally stems from a dental experience that was painful or unpleasant, perhaps when the person was a child. Others may have heard dental “horror” stories from friends or family members. Fortunately, advances in dental procedures can make a person’s experience pain and anxiety free.
  • Fear of having an injection or fear that it won’t work: There are a lot of people who are actually terrified of needles. Others fear that the anesthesia won’t work or that it will wear off during a procedure.
  • Anesthetic side effects: Some patients are afraid of the potential side effects of anesthesia like feeling faint, dizziness, or nausea.
  • A feeling of helplessness or loss of control: It’s not uncommon for people to feel this way when sitting in the dentist chair. They fear it because their mouth is open and they can’t see what’s going on and they fear not being in control of the situation.
  • Embarrassment: Many people self-conscious about their teeth. When people put off going to the dentist and minor problems turn into major issues, it compounds the effect, making it even more difficult the longer they wait.

How Sedation Dentistry Can Help

Your oral health is so important and letting a minor problem turn into a more serious issue only makes the situation worse. At The Dental Anesthesia Center, modern and safe anesthesia techniques can allow you to have dental procedures accomplished without the anxiety associated with dentistry.

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St. Louis Dental Phobia Dentist

If you have not been to the dentist because you suffer from moderate to severe dental phobia, Dr. Michael J. Hoffmann, Dr. Sean M. Thoms, and Dr. Victoria Q. Daugherty are here to help you. At The Dental Anesthesia Center, we value our patient relationships, making it our priority to deliver gentle dental care that you deserve. Call to schedule your appointment at (314) 862-7844.

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How Diabetes Can Affect Your Teeth

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Diabetes can make a person more prone to gum disease and other oral infections. Proper dental care is absolutely key!

Diabetes can cause long term damage to the body. Because diabetes affects blood vessels and nerves, virtually any part of the body can be impacted by the disease. This can include your teeth and gums. However, the good news is that when you learn about what you’re up against, you can maintain good dental health!

Dental Problems Due to Diabetes

Whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, managing your blood sugar level is very important. The higher your blood sugar level is, the more at risk you are for the following issues with your gums and teeth:

  • Cavities – You naturally have bacteria in your mouth. When you eat foods high in starch and sugars, they interact with the bacteria and it turns into plaque which is the sticky film you can sometimes feel on your teeth with your tongue. If left on the teeth too long, the acids in the plaque attack the surfaces of your teeth and can lead to cavities and gum disease.
  • Gingivitis – Because diabetes reduces your ability to fight bacteria, you could develop gingivitis, or early gum disease. The longer plague and tartar remain on your teeth, the more they will irritate the gums around the base of your teeth, known as gingiva. Over time, the irritation will cause your gums to swell and they will bleed more easily. Regularly brushing and flossing will remove the bacteria and will allow your mouth to be healthy.
  • Periodontitis – If gingivitis is left untreated, it can lead to a more serious infection called periodontitis. This destroys the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth. This can cause your gums and jawbone to pull away from your teeth, which in turn means they will loosen and possible fall out. Periodontitis tends to be more of an issue with people who have diabetes because the disease lowers the ability to fight infection and slows the healing process.
  • Thrush – Thrush is often more common in people with diabetes. It is a fungal infection caused by the yeast Candida albicans. Signs of thrush include painful red or white patches on the inside of the mouth.
  • Dry Mouth – Also known as xerostomia, dry mouth occurs when there isn’t enough saliva in the mouth. Saliva is important because protects against gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral infections.

Proper Dental Care is Key

Diabetes can make a person more prone to the above problems. As a result, proper dental care is absolutely key in preventing these issues.

First and foremost is managing your diabetes by following all of your doctor’s instructions. The better you control your diabetes, the less likely you will develop gingivitis or other oral infections.

Second, brush and floss at least twice a day. If you can, brush your teeth after each meal. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and use toothpaste that has fluoride. An electric toothbrush can help you clean your teeth more effectively.

Third, don’t skip your dental appointments. Regular cleanings and checkups are important. If you have dental anxiety, The Dental Anesthesia Center is a state-of-the-art dental facility that caters to patients who require Oral Sedation, Deep Sedation, or General Anesthesia for their dental care.

Call Us Today

The Only Board Certified Dental Anesthesiologists in the State of Missouri, including the St. Louis Metro Area.

Call (314) 862-7844