Why Sedation Dentistry Is A Great Option

Sedation Dentistry Near Me

Why Sedation Dentistry Is A Great Option

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is the use of medication to help a patient relax during a dental procedure. There are different types of sedatives that can be used, and the level of sedation will vary depending on the procedure being performed and the patient’s level of anxiety. In some cases, a patient may be given a light sedative to help them relax, while in other cases, a patient may be given a heavier sedative to help them sleep through the procedure. The type of sedative used will be determined by the dentist near you, and the level of sedation will be monitored throughout the procedure to ensure the patient’s safety. Sedation dentistry can be used for both simple and complex procedures, and it can help make the experience more comfortable for both the patient and the dentist.

What Is The Benefit of Sedation Dentistry?

For many people, the thought of going to your Shreveport dentist is enough to trigger a panic attack. The fear of needles, drills, and the unknown can be overwhelming. Sedation dentistry offers a solution for people who experience anxiety at the dentist. With sedation dentistry in Shreveport LA, patients are given drugs to help them relax during their procedure. The level of sedation can range from mild to heavy, depending on the patient’s needs. Sedation dentistry has many benefits, including reducing fear and anxiety, minimizing pain, and preventing memory formation of the procedure. As a result, patients who undergo sedation dentistry often have a positive experience and are more likely to return for future appointments.

Types of Sedation

As talked about with our friends over at High Desert Dental, the best dentist in Grand Junction CO, there are several types of sedation dentistry, which may be used depending on the procedure being performed, the patient’s level of anxiety, and other factors.

  • Oral conscious sedation is the most common type of sedation dentistry. It involves taking a pill before your appointment to help you relax.
  • IV sedation is administered through a small needle in your hand or arm. It works more quickly than oral conscious sedation and allows the dentist to adjust the level of sedation throughout the procedure.
  • General anesthesia is used for more complex procedures and puts you into a deep sleep. The dentist will constantly monitor your vital signs during the procedure.

Sedation dentistry is safe and effective for most people.

Contact Shreveport Dental Solutions Today

At Shreveport Dental Solutions, we understand that some patients may feel anxious about dental procedures. That’s why we offer sedation dentistry as an option for our patients. With sedation dentistry, you can relax and remain comfortable throughout your entire treatment. Contact us today to learn more about our sedation dentistry services. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile!

Why Sleep Dentistry

Sleep Dentistry

Why Sleep Dentistry

why sleep dentistry
Why Sleep Dentistry

Sleep dentistry uses particular drugs to assist patients in relaxing during dental treatments. These medications can range from nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, to general anesthesia, which causes patients to lose awareness or consciousness.

Why Consider Sleep Dentistry

Even if a patient is not facing a critical operation or does not suffer fear or anxiety when visiting the dentist, it is not uncommon for dentists to offer sedation dentistry. Below, our sedation dentist Shreveport shares reasons you should consider sedation dentistry.

Fear of Visiting Your Dentist

Fear or anxiety about going to the dentist in Shreveport is the most prevalent reason patients choose sedation dentistry. Sedation dentistry completely relaxes and dulls the patient’s senses. Sedation dentistry gives the patient a cheerful and relaxed feeling and an overall sense of well-being. The patient will not experience any discomfort during the treatment and will have no recollection of it.

Quickens the Experience

It can be awkward for a patient reclining in the chair to stare at their dentist and the ceiling for the entirety of the visit, no matter how warm and welcoming the dentist is. Even modest sedation can make a dentist near me appointment fly by in the blink of an eye.

Reduces Trips to Dentist

Some dental procedures necessitate numerous visits, not because the dentist cannot complete the work in a single visit, but because patients can only manage so much dental care in a single appointment. Sedation dentistry eliminates the need for a second visit. In addition, Dr. Kacos, the best dentist in Shreveport LA, shares that it allows dentists to perform all of their treatment in a single charge. Thus, this frees up patients’ calendars to spend as they see fit.

Removes the Gag Reflex

Some people have an extreme gag reflex, making dental procedures painful. Hands and instruments deep inside the mouth can set off the response, causing the dental session to be disrupted or slowed. Our friend Dr. O’Grady, sleep dentist Denver, shares that mild kinds of sedation dentistry will reduce the gag reflex. Therefore, this allows dentists to work more efficiently and patients to feel more at ease.

Teeth And Gum Sensitivity

While most patients have no physical issues with dental work, sensitive teeth and gums can make a dentist appointment unpleasant. Patients who are hypersensitive to pain frequently enjoy a far more pleasant dental treatment when sedated.

Having Difficulties Sitting Still

Sedation dentistry can help patients who have difficulties sitting still or limitations. Even the mildest forms of sedation dentistry can help fidgety patients calm their bodies. Sedation’s relaxing effects are especially advantageous to people with impairments who cannot stay still for long periods.

Contact Shreveport Dental Solutions Today

Make an appointment with Shreveport Dental Solutions today to see if sedation dentistry is a good fit for you!

Reasons for Choosing Sedation Dentistry

Reasons for Choosing Sedation Dentistry


Some Shreveport LA dentists use sedation to ease dental treatment for a variety of reasons, and Dr. Ben Kacos is one of them! Sedation dentistry ranges from the use of nitrous oxide, in which patients are awake and able to respond but are in a deep state of relaxation, to general anesthetics used to give patients full sleep. Procedures such as fillings, bridges, crowns, extractions, root canals and cosmetic procedures often require some kind of sedation. It’s a very common dentistry method, and there are many reasons for choosing sedation dentistry. 

Reduces Anxiety in Dental Visits

According to the American Dental Association, it is estimated that 9 to 20 percent of Americans do not go to the dentist because of fear and anxiety. This may be because of a bad dental experience in their past. No matter what, there is no age limit for dental anxiety. It affects both children and adults.  This can be very serious if it prevents getting needed treatments. Sedation dentistry reduces this anxiety, making it much easier for patients.

Decreases any Pain or Discomfort You May Feel

Many extensive dental procedures require some kind of sedation to help patients feel little to no pain. For some people, even a routine checkup that does not require sedation can be a source of discomfort that they want to avoid completely. For people with low pain tolerance, sedation dentistry helps to remove any reluctance that you may have. The dentist will put you in a deep state of relaxation where you can still respond and be aware of what’s going on around you, but you won’t feel it! 

Helps you to Overcome Certain Sensitivities

You may not mind any discomfort, but you do have certain sensitivities that make your appointment not only difficult for you, but for the dentist. For example, some people may have a strong gag reflex that prevents the professional from sticking the necessary tools in his or her mouth explains sleep dentist St. Petersburg, Dr. Brian Leeson. You may also experience nausea when you encounter the smells of the dentist’s office. No matter how sensitive you are to touch or smell, sedation dentistry can put you in a state of euphoria that helps you overcome them.

Assistance During Long Procedures

Certain dental procedures are complex and may require multiple visits. However, sometimes a dentist can get a job done in a couple of longer visits. Sedation dentistry is helpful in long-term procedures! Being sedated will relax your muscles, or even make you sleep through a long process, making hours look like minutes.

In addition, sometimes it doesn’t matter how long the process takes. The patient may simply not be able to sit for a longer period of time. Sedation dentistry can help those individuals by calming down their restlessness enough to allow the dentist to complete the procedure.

Contact Shreveport LA Sedation Dentists

If you have any of these reasons, please contact us. Our Shreveport LA sedation dentist, Dr. Ben Kacos can help you have a more relaxed experience! 

Is Sedation Dentistry Right for Me?

Is Sedation Right for Me? 2021

Would you prefer to deal with a toothache than visit your dentist in Shreveport, LA? You’re not the only one. Many people are afraid to even sit in a dental chair, let alone undergo dental work. Luckily, if you visit Dr. Benjamin Kacos in Shreveport, you can opt for sedation dentistry to help you enjoy your experience and relax while at the dentist. In the article below, we answer some questions about sedation dentistry.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

Also known as sleep dentistry, sedation dentistry makes use of medicine to help patients relax and be calm during dental procedures.

Here are a few types of sedation dentistry:

Inhalation – If you want this type of sedation, you will be given nitrous oxide through a mask placed over your nose. The gas will help you relax. And this wears off fast after the procedures.

Oral – With this method, you will take a pill an hour before the procedure. This pill will only make you feel drowsy, so you may still be aware throughout the procedure.

Intravenous – Intravenous or IV sedation is received through your vein, which puts you in different stages of consciousness. Most IV drugs will make you less aware of your surroundings and not remember the procedure once it is over. If you are extremely anxious, your dentist may use general anesthesia – you’ll be put into a deep sleep, or you’ll be unconscious during the procedure until it wears off. 

How Sedation Dentistry Works

The process will depend on the type of sedation your dentist recommends. When you’re taking oral sedation, your Shreveport dentist will give you a prescription for the drug. Also, you will be given instructions on how you must take it. You’ll soon experience increased relaxation and reduced anxiety once the medication starts to work.

With nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, you do not have to prepare at all. Dr. Kacos will give it before, during, and after the dental procedure. But if you want to opt for IV sedation, you might need to prepare in advance. These include not eating or drinking for certain hours before the procedure and not taking any medication a day before because this may affect the sedation medication. Our friend, Dr. Jin, a sedation dentist in Lexington, KY, recommends IV sedation for those who are extremely anxious about undergoing dental procedure. 

Is This Right for You?

Most people may ask, Is sedation dentistry right for me?

Reputable dental professionals emphasize that you must consider the procedure you’re about to face before deciding on dental sedation. For instance, are you afraid of needles? If yes, IV sedation may cause you to become more anxious.

But if you are putting off necessary dental work because you fear the pain, sleep dentistry is your best solution. Ignoring dental issues like broken or loose teeth and dental caries can put your overall health at risk. Our friend Dr. Chris Green, a dentist in Parker, CO, recommends exploring your sleep dentistry options if you have a fear of the dentist. Otherwise, your dental problems may get worse, and you may need more extensive treatment. 

So when you are worried about your upcoming dental work, contact Dr. Kacos about sedation dentistry. This will help you feel confident about sitting in the dental chair, and you do not have to worry about stubborn dental problems.

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in April 2018 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness. 

 

Types of Sedation Dentistry

Types of Sedation Dentistry in Shreveport, LA

Whether you’re coming in to visit with Dr. Kacos, the best dentist in Shreveport, for a routine checkup, a simple filling, or to undergo a more extensive procedure, you’ll appreciate the difference that sedation dentistry can provide for your experience. There are many different types of sedation dentistry options that are offered to meet many different patient needs.

Not all sedation dentistry options will fall into the category of sleep dentistry.  So, what are the various types of sedation dentistry? How can they benefit you and your experience? Our team put together a list of the different types of sedation dentistry in Shreveport. 

Nitrous Oxide Sedation

Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is an entry-level sedation solution. One of the great benefits of using laughing gas is that it doesn’t truly sedate you. Once your procedure is over, you’ll be able to drive yourself without issue.

Laughing gas is the ideal solution for patients who feel just a bit of anxiety about their procedure. The nitrous oxide will simply take the edge off of your nerves. This ensures that you feel comfortable and relaxed for the duration of the procedure.

Once the gas has been turned off, oxygen will be flushed through your mask to clear your head from the effects of the gas. You’ll feel clearheaded and ready to take on the rest of your day. Many patients are even able to go into work after a procedure using laughing gas.

The concern with nitrous oxide is that it is not necessarily the right option for all patients. Those that are going to undergo more complicated procedures, or those who have moderate anxiety about their upcoming appointment may choose a different option. Some patients may not need any type of sedation at all, as may be the case with dental veneers Shreveport LA patients will learn. This non-invasive procedure rarely needs any type of numbing solution.

Oral Sedation

The next sedation option our Shreveport sleep dentist offers is oral sedation. This type of sedation typically involves a pill and quite often nitrous oxide. The type of medication used in pill form can drastically reduce your levels of anxiety, to the point where some patients don’t have a recollection of their appointment.

We asked our friends at OG Dental, sedation dentistry Denver Highlands, to describe the pros and cons of this option. They explained that there are some potential drawbacks to this type of sedation. The primary concern is that the medication will stick around in your system for up to several hours after your procedure. This means that you won’t be able to drive yourself home. Additionally, you won’t be able to return to work after your procedure.

IV Sedation

This type of sedation allows your dentist to better control the way that the sedation medications impact you. It is more intense and does require a needle stick for the IV itself. However, it is the most effective solution for reducing pain and anxiety in patients who are undergoing complicated procedures. For root canal therapy or perhaps dental implants, IV sedation is a great solution to allow patients the relaxation needed to make their treatment a much more pleasant experience.

Patients who undergo IV sedation rarely report much recollection of the procedure. Thus, this can be a positive aspect of sedation treatment.  Some procedures may be quite overwhelming for patients who have high anxiety levels when it comes to the dentist.

The major downside, if you could call it that, is that IV sedation does, of course, mean that the patient cannot drive home. A family member or friend will need to be waiting to drive the patient so that they can recover in the comfort of their own home.

Choosing Your Sedation Dentist in Shreveport, LA

From fillings to root canal therapy or a smile makeover, Shreveport LA patients can be assured of a dental experience that is free from anxiety and stress. Dr. Kacos is your first choice for a cosmetic dentist Shreveport LA patients can trust. With a focus on a positive experience and compassion for the needs of the patient, you’ll appreciate Dr. Kacos as your go-to the dentist when you’re next in need.

What to Expect for Sedation Dentistry

WHAT TO EXPECT FOR SEDATION DENTISTRY

What to Expect for Sedation Dentistry

Do you fear spending time in the chair when you visit your dentist in Shreveport? Many patients, both men and women of all ages, harbor fear about dental treatment. So much so that they might avoid getting the dental care that they desperately need.
While it’s fairly common to fear the unexpected during a dentist appointment, there are some ways to ease those fears and even find yourself relaxing in the dentist’s chair. Whether you’re in for a routine check-up, like professional cleanings or even a small cavity filling, or you’ve sought out the best emergency dentist Shreveport offers, sedation dentistry may be the right direction for you.

What is Sedation Dentistry?

For those who do their utmost to avoid going to the dentist, sedation dentistry can offer help for some of the related anxiety. The type of sedation and how it is used depends on the procedure and the severity of the patient’s anxiety.
Sedation dentistry makes use of various types of medications that can help ease anxiety for patients so that they can relax during needed dental procedures. It can often be referred to as sleep dentistry, but that’s not an entirely accurate description. Patients are typically awake during treatment, with the exception of patients undergoing more complicated procedures necessitating general anesthesia. There are several levels of sedation, as there is no one-size solution for patients and treatment.

Inhaled Minimal Sedation

Patients will breathe in nitrous oxide and oxygen. Laughing gas is a nickname for nitrous oxide. Patients will be awake but will feel relaxed. The mask will be placed over the nose, and patients will be told just to take normal but steady and focused breaths. The nitrous oxide can help you to relax, and it typically wears off fast so that you’ll be able to drive after your procedure.

Oral, or Moderate Sedation

Patients will be given a medication similar to Valium, which will help take the edge off of the anxiety the patient is feeling. The pill will be taken about an hour prior to the procedure so that there is ample time for it to work. Patients may feel drowsy, but they will not generally fall asleep. Some doze off during their dental treatment but are easily awoken with a gentle shake. Patients who undergo this type of sedation will need to have someone drive them home after their procedure.

IV, or Moderate Sedation

 The sedative is given through your vein and does require a needle stick. It will work much faster than taking a pill, and your dentist can also adjust the sedation level throughout your procedure. You will be just on the very edge of consciousness, but you will still be easily awakened. Patients who undergo this type of sedation will need to be driven home after their treatment.

General Anesthesia or Deep Sedation

Patients are given medications that render them either almost unconscious or completely and deeply unconscious or asleep. Patients under general anesthesia cannot be woken easily until the anesthesia effects wear off or are reversed with certain medications.

Is Dental Sedation Right for You?

If your fear of the dentist is keeping you from making an appointment, you will most likely benefit from one of the types of sedation dentistry.
This type of relief may also be the right choice for the following concerns.

  • Low threshold for pain
  • Ultra-sensitive teeth
  • Poor gag reflex
  • Extensive dental work needed
  • Fidgety patients

Bay Area dentists at Surfside Kids Dental say that children can often be good candidates for sedation, particularly nitrous oxide. It can help to soothe any anxiety that they are feeling and also help better ensure their cooperation. To learn more about whether your child could benefit from sleep dentistry Shreveport dentist Dr. Kacos recommends just giving the office a call.

Sleep Sedating with Dr. Ben Kacos

Sedation dentistry is considered safe, especially when Dr. Ben Kacos administers it because he is trained and licensed to do so. Patients undergoing dental treatment that might require more than the injected local anesthetic, such as those getting dental implants, will find that their dental implant specialist Dr. Kacos will offer the best solutions to meet each individual’s treatment needs. 
Let Dr. Ben Kacos help put you at ease, keep you comfortable and pain-free, and also keep your smile looking beautiful. 

3 Ways To Overcome Your Fear Of The Dentist

Overcome Your Fear of the Dentist

Three Ways to Stop Fearing the Dentist

Three Ways To Stop Fearing The Dentist, Dr.Ben Kacos

Do you put off getting dental treatment because you’re afraid of the dentist? Perhaps you’ve had a bad experience in the past that’s left you afraid? Or perhaps it’s been some time since you’ve been seen by a dentist and you’re afraid of just how bad your teeth could be right now?
No matter what your reasons for fearing the dentist may be, Dr. Ben Kacos and his team of compassionate dental professionals can ensure that each of your needs are met from the moment you step foot into the office. You’ll find that Dr. Kacos works with a steady but gentle hand, regardless of the reason for your visit.
Keep in mind that the more you put off being seen by your dentist, the more likely you are to develop severe and serious concerns that may turn into your needing emergency treatment. If you do find yourself needing urgent treatment, you’ll find Dr. Kacos to be the gentlest emergency dentist Shreveport has to offer.

We’ve got 3 great tips to help you work through your fear of the dentist, combat your dental anxiety and restore your beautiful smile.

One – Be Your Own Advocate

Speak up, be honest and voice your fears. As any person with anxiety can tell you, sharing your concerns and fears can make a huge difference. Not only will it help you to feel a sense of relief to voice some of your fears, but it will also allow your dentist and dental staff to understand that you are feeling anxiety.
Share with them any previous bad experiences that may have soured your views and feelings about the dentist. You may find that your dentist can offer some great solutions to help ease your fears, including offering sedation dentistry options. Sedation dentistry can help to keep you feeling calm and collected, whether you’re undergoing an extraction or root canal therapy. Knowing that this is an option can often help you to overcome your fear of the Dentist.

Two – Consider Distractions to Re-Focus Yourself

Quite often we can become hyper-focused on what is going on in our mouths, particularly if we are already struggling with a degree of nervousness or outright fear. While this is completely understandable, refocusing your thoughts can help with some of the nerves that you are feeling. Even the simplest of things could prove to be just what you need to refocus yourself while Dr. Kacos and his staff work to restore your smile.

  • Wear headphones to listen to music, a podcast or an audiobook
  • Use a stress ball or fidget spinner to keep your hands occupied
  • Consider aromatherapy if it helps to relax you.
  • No one will mind if you bring along some of your favorite oils or aromatherapy lamps to help keep you focused
  • If visualization techniques help you, consider visualizing yourself walking along a calm sunshine-filled beach or enjoying an afternoon in a park, under a tree, with dappled sunshine on your face

Three – Learning mindfulness techniques

Mindfulness is a simple form of meditation that has been proven exceptionally helpful in calming the mind. Think of it as a simple deep breathing exercise to help ease the tension that you have built-in your muscles as you anticipate the work that the dentist is about to do.
Count each of your breaths. Inhale slowly, for a count of five, and exhale slowly again for a count of five. Repeat this slow mindful breathing several times, while you have some downtime waiting to be seen or during breaks when you’re in the dental chair.
When you’re not focusing on your breathing, do a slow body scan. Do this by focusing on relaxing the muscles in your body, one area at a time. Begin with the top of your head. Then work your way down to your neck and shoulders, all the way to your toes. You will be on your way to overcoming your fear of the Dentist.
This may seem to be an overly simplified way of dealing with stress while at the Dentist. Rest assured, it can really help to distract you from some of the anxiety that you are feeling.
There’s no time like the present to get treatment for the dental problems that may be causing you discomfort or outright pain. When you’re looking for the best dentist in Shreveport, Dr. Kacos offers the gentle and compassionate touch that you need to overcome your fear of the dentist. Check out our hundreds of five-star reviews across the web. When it comes to sleep dentistry Shreveport dentist Dr. Ben Kacos will have a solution to help you get through your fear and anxiety about the dentist.

 

Facts About Sedation Dentistry

FACTS ABOUT SEDATION DENTISTRY

Facts About Sedation Dentistry

The practice of dentistry and dental technology has come a long way. Dentistry has gone from excruciating treatment to a couple of very relaxing hours in a comfortable environment. But still, many people avoid the dentist. It is precisely for these people that sedation dentistry becomes a godsend. In this article, Dr. Ben Kacos shares some facts about sedation dentistry for his dental patients in Shreveport, LA.

What exactly is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry basically refers to the practice of administering medication, which creates a state of relaxation and keeps in check the pain and anxiety of patients, to perform various dental procedures. Surveys show that up to 10 percent of the population suffers from dental phobia. While around 75 percent of the population has some fear or anxiety related to dental procedures. That’s why Dr. Ben Kacos offers sedation dentistry for his Shreveport patients.

How does it work?

There are different levels of sedation and various types of sedation, which can be used at each level. Dr. Ben Kacos, at Shreveport’s Dentist, makes sure that the right type and amount of sedative are used to ensure the safety and wellbeing of his patients. The types of sedation used in dentistry are:

Minimal Sedation

Minimal sedation is commonly achieved through Nitrogen oxide (Laughing gas) and oral medication. In this level of sedation, the patient is able to breathe on their own and retain control of all their bodily functions. This is used to relax the patient while keeping them awake. The effects of this type of sedation wear off quickly, enabling the patient to drive back home.

Moderate sedation

Moderate sedation is also known as “conscious sedation.” It is normally achieved by injecting an IV line in the hand, arm, or foot of the patient. The patient can breathe on their own, and all the bodily functions remain normal. The patient stays awake and responds to touch and verbal commands. However, in this state, the patient is less likely to remember the procedure once the effects wear out. Additionally, the level of sedation is administered through the IV line. This can easily be adjusted by the dentist as per the requirement.

Deep sedation / General anesthesia

Although rarely used for routine dental procedures, deep sedation can be achieved by injecting medication, giving oral medication, and in combination with gases. The patient is unconscious in this state. In most cases, does not wake up until the effects of the sedation have worn out, or further medication is given to reverse the effects.

We asked our friend, Dr. Kristina Neda, a sedation dentist in Georgetown KY, about moderate sedation. Dr. Neda says that deep sedation is one of the most popular forms of sedation dentistry. However, there is no “right” choice when deciding which form of sedation you want. It all depends on your level of comfort and the reason why you’re wanting sedation to be apart of your dental treatment.

Why use sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry has multiple benefits, including the following:

Sedation dentistry is safe. At Shreveport’s Dentist, a trained dentist administers the drug, and constantly monitor’s the drug’s amount and patient’s status.

It relieves pain. Through sedation, the pain is completely removed from the dental procedure, and who does not want pain-free dental care?

It is effective. This goes for both the dentist and the patient, as the doctor can perform multiple procedures during one visit, and this means less money spent by the patient.

Sedation dentistry helps reduce gag reflex. Gag reflex can be a major hindrance in dental procedures for both the doctor and patient, therefore through sedation, the dentist can get the work done faster with the patient being more comfortable.

Sedation dentistry helps relieve anxiety. Some patients become so nervous by a visit to the dentist that they avoid it completely, so sedation removes the reason to avoid that visit.

 

Sedation Dentistry in Shreveport LA

Sedation Dentistry in Shreveport LA

Sedation Dentistry in Shreveport LA

Do you suffer from dental anxiety or have a low pain threshold? These and so many other reasons may make you a suitable candidate for IV sedation dentistry in Shreveport LA. But what does it cost? Are there any procedures for which it is required? Read on and get answers to these, and other related questions about IV sedation dentistry.

How Much Does Dental Sedation Cost?

As is the case with all fees in medicine, your insurance company is a key factor in giving you a quote for different medical and dental services. Remember, Shreveport’s dentist has multiple convenient payment options, including a zero interest in-house savings plan. You will certainly find a plan that is suitable for you from among those available here.
As for cost, IV sedation costs $400 in Shreveport LA if you aren’t insured (and will, therefore, payout of pocket). However, this fee is for patients who aren’t medically complex. Those who are medically complex, such as those with other preexisting medical conditions, require extra attention, and an anesthetic nurse will be needed to assist during the sedation. The extra staff needed during the procedure raises the cost, and you can typically expect to pay $600 an hour.
Not every dentist has been certified to provide IV sedation in Shreveport LA, and Dr. Ben Kacos is one of the four who have this certification in the area. Don’t hesitate to make an appointment for an assessment of what level of IV sedation or any other kind of sedation that may be necessary for you. This initial consultation is free, so take full advantage of it.

Are There Dental Procedures That Require IV Sedation?

Shreveport’s dentist explains that there isn’t a dental procedure for which IV sedation is a requirement. However, there are many procedures for which patients have indicated that IV sedation gives them the kind of comfort that they desire. These procedures include dental implant placement, wisdom tooth extraction, tooth extraction, and many other surgical, dental procedures. Remember, you can talk to Dr. Kacos about IV sedation regardless of the procedure you are due to undergo if this sedation will give you the level of comfort you need.

What to Expect When Undergoing IV Sedation

When you search for “IV sedation near me” and find Shreveport’s dentist, you can expect several things during your appointment to undergo IV sedation dentistry. First, plan to have someone drive you from your appointment and stay with you for a few hours at home until the IV sedation wears off.
Dr. Kacos will also inform you that you should refrain from eating anything during the six hours before your IV sedation dental procedure. However, you can drink a minimal amount of water as you take any medication that you are currently taking.
During the procedure performed by Dr. Ben Kacos, you will not feel any worry or pain since you will be unaware of everything happening around you. Many patients have no recollection of their dental procedure conducted under IV sedation.
After the procedure, you will be placed in a wheelchair and escorted out of the office to your waiting vehicle. This step is necessary because the sedation temporarily affects your coordination and balance, which is why you are advised to have a driver to take you home.

IV Sedation vs. General Anesthesia

Sedation has many levels on a continuum which has light/mild sedation at the lowest end and general anesthesia at the extreme end. The use of nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is an example of the lowest form of sedation. IV sedation falls somewhere along that continuum between mild sedation and general anesthesia.
When you undergo a procedure after being given IV sedation, you remain awake but unaware and comfortable. In this state, it is possible for you to respond to external stimuli, such as when someone taps you on the shoulder or speaks to you. This is similar to what can happen when you take a nap. However, when you receive general anesthesia, you are unconscious and are unable to respond to any stimulus.
Ready for your first sedation dentistry procedure? Contact Shreveport’s dentist and schedule a consultation. Any other queries you have will be addressed, and the level of IV sedation you require will be determined before the procedure is scheduled.

 

The Top 5 Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

The Top 5 Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

The Top 5 Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

The Top 5 Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

Dental phobia is a serious condition that affects millions of Americans. For some, it takes the form of mild apprehension before they have a dental procedure done. For others, the phobia is so pronounced that they will sink into a full-blown panic attack at the mere thought of visiting a dentist. Regardless of where you are on this dental phobia spectrum, sedation dentistry can help you to deal with that fear.
Sedation dentistry takes many forms, such as inhalation of the sedative, the administration of the sedative orally or intravenously and even general anesthesia for the most severe cases of dental anxiety/phobia. Sedation dentistry offers several advantages or benefits to you as explained below.

Anxiety Relief

We asked our friend, Dr. Cody Cowen, a dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, about sedation dentistry. Dr. Cowen says anxiety relief is the number one reason why patients opt for sedation dentistry. He says sedation dentistry brings complete relief from the anxiety that you feel while you are at the dentist’s office. The sedative that you are given depends on how serious your dental phobia is. For example, people who are mildly anxious can be given nitrous oxide (laughing gas) while those who have a severe form of dental fear (for example, those who start screaming and resisting the dental team) can be given a general anesthetic so that they can sleep right through the dental procedure being performed by Dr. Kacos and his team in Shreveport LA.

Managing the Gag Reflex

Some people have a highly sensitive gag reflex that can be a stumbling block to the successful performance of some dental procedures. For such people, this involuntary urge to expel anything that gets into the throat or deep in the mouth can be curtailed by the use of sedation dentistry.
The sedative administered by Dr. Kacos, an emergency dentist in Shreveport, will deactivate the gag reflex so that the dental procedure can go on without any disruption. In this way, you will get the dental care you need without your instinctive reactions getting in the way.

Triggering Anterograde Amnesia

Memories usually serve a good purpose, such as helping you to remember the places that you have been to or the people that you interact with. However, Dr. Kacos explains that memories can sometimes be a bad thing, especially if someone’s dental phobia stems from a bad experience at the dentist’s in the past.
Memories of that unpleasant experience keep flooding the mind of the patient and he or she will become anxious or even overwhelmed each time they need to see a dentist. 
Sedation dentistry can be the instrument which breaks the chain of those memories.  When you undergo a dental procedure while sedated, your brain cannot store memories about that experience. So, the past memories will gradually fade if subsequent dental visits don’t reinforce those memories. In this way, you will eventually overcome your dental phobia.

Reducing the Time Needed for a Dental Procedure

A simple dental procedure can take longer than it should if Dr. Kacos keep worrying about your dental phobia or when he has to take frequent breaks so that you can recover from the mounting anxiety that you are experiencing during the procedure.
Wouldn’t you want an “unpleasant” experience to end quickly? Sedation dentistry helps with that. You will be unable to squirm or struggle to free yourself if the dental procedure is performed after you are sedated. Consequently, the dentist in Shreveport LA will work faster and you will leave the dental office sooner.

Pain Relief

You may be one of those people who have a low threshold for pain. In that case, even basic dental procedures like professional cleanings can be very painful. Even if you have a high pain threshold, you wouldn’t look forward to having a tooth extracted without any form of anesthetic, would you?
Sedation dentistry is available to make every dental procedure as painless as possible. In fact, many people are willing to visit the dentist because they offer pain-free treatment with sedation dentistry. 
So, have you been dragging your feet about seeing the dentist regarding that painful tooth or any other dental concern? Fear no more! Dr. Ben Kacos has extensive experience in performing sedation dentistry in Shreveport, LA. Call him today and let him use the “magic” of sedation dentistry to restore your beautiful smile.