Sedation dentistry is a safe and effective way for your loved one to receive the dental care they may not otherwise be able to get.
Going to the dentist can be both scary and painful for geriatric patients, especially when the patient has Alzheimer’s or dementia preventing their ability to understand or remember what is happening to them.
When an Alzheimer’s patient also has arthritis or fibromyalgia, it can be even more difficult for them to sit still in the dentist’s chair for long periods. At The Dental Anesthesia Center, we offer oral sedation dentistry to make your loved one’s dental experience less stressful.
Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia
To safely and effectively provide dental care to patients with Alzheimer’s and dementia, it is essential to understand what they are. The terms “Alzheimer’s” and “dementia” are often used as though they are the same thing. While they are related, there are notable differences between the two. Dementia is a broad term for a person’s changes in memory, reasoning, or thinking. There are several possible causes of dementia and Alzheimer’s is one.
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disease that destroys memory and other essential mental functions. It is the most common cause of dementia, making up 60% to 80% of all dementia cases. It is not a normal part of the aging process; instead, it is a brain disease and will progressively get worse.
Difficulty with Daily Oral Care
As a person with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia progresses, they may forget how to maintain their daily oral care routine. They may forget how to brush their teeth or forget why it’s important. During the early stages, it’s essential to focus on prevention. Getting checkups and brushing and flossing regularly can prevent the need for more extensive procedures later on.
Dental Sedation
Dental care for patients with Alzheimer’s and dementia presents a challenge as these patients are typically unable to follow directions or cooperate with simple instructions. However, at The Dental Anesthesia Center, individuals with physical or mental disabilities can achieve complete dental care in a comfortable setting. Sedation dentistry provides a safe and effective way for special needs patients to receive the dental treatment they need. Patients can have a complete exam, full mouth series of x-rays, and thorough cleaning while under general anesthesia.
If you are a caretaker for a person with Alzheimer’s or dementia, our experienced and compassionate dental team can help you get them the dental care they need. We work hard to make our patients feel at ease by providing exceptional patient care in a relaxed, convenient atmosphere.
Call Us Today
The Only Board Certified Dental Anesthesiologists in the State of Missouri, including the St. Louis Metro Area.