Dr. Hufanda and I just returned from a dental conference in Denver for a refresher on advances in cosmetic and sedation dentistry. It is amazing how many people are looking for a more comfortable alternative to having their dentistry done. Well, why not? Most people wouldn’t consider going for a colonoscopy or some other minor medical surgical procedure without having a little pharmaceutical help on board. Why should getting dentistry be any different.
The days of drill and fill are quickly ending as baby boomers enter into that stage in their lives where their dentistry from the early days is falling into disrepair. Todays children do not need as much dentistry due to advances in technology and preventative awareness. So the majority of dentistry we see today is to “fix” broken down, worn out teeth, or replace dentistry that is failing or has outlived it’s usefulness.
Many of these procedures are more complex than just drilling for cavities and require more skill from the dentist and often more time. But, that does not mean that it has to be uncomfortable. Sedation dentistry protocols are better than ever and allow almost anyone to have a dental experience that is free of pain and worry.
If it has been a while since you saw a dentist and you know its time, consider coming in to see how different things are now.
