No Worries With Sedation Dentistry in The Woodlands

Why do people avoid going to the dentist in The Woodlands? Above all, it’s fear of pain. Perhaps you had a painful experience at a dentist, and without anesthesia, dental work could be painful. Or perhaps you’ve heard stories, seen movies (we won’t mention their titles!), or even comedy routines that exaggerate experiences in the dental chair.

Local anesthesia itself can be painful for some people, and they dread any procedure, such as drilling, filling cavities, even cleanings.

There’s no need for pain or anxiety when visiting Dr. Shirley Cagle in the Woodlands. She understands how you feel and can help your anxiety and any potential pain during your treatment. The most pain you should ever have would be temporary soreness after a more involved procedure.

We can help those pre-visit jitters with sedation dentistry, where we give you a prescription medication that you take before your appointment to help you relax. Once you’re here, we can also use nitrous oxide—or laughing gas—to help you relax even further. There are a number of advantages to using nitrous oxide:

●      The amount can be altered at any time to increase or decrease sedation.

●      There is no after effect such as a "hangover".

●      Inhalation sedation is safe with no side effects on your heart and lungs, etc.

●      In as little as 2-3 minutes, its relaxation and pain killing properties take effect.

Dr. Cagle also takes special care that the instruments she uses are advanced and therefore quieter and less jarring.

Call our Woodlands dental office to talk about any fears you have of going to the dentist. We’ll talk to you about how we can plan in advance to help you relax and be comfortable before and during your visit.

Dental Implants for Missing Teeth in The Woodlands

Did you know that 69% of adults ages 35 to 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth to an accident, gum disease, a failed root canal or tooth decay? And nearly 26% of adults over the age of 65 have lost at least their upper, lower, or all of their teeth?

Our life expectancy has increased by nearly 26 years since 1965. Then, the average life expectancy was 65. Now we can expect to live well into our 80s. As our longevity continues to increase, the risk of tooth loss has increased as well. Without teeth, it’s difficult to eat and this can impact your diet. It’s also difficult to speak, and your appearance can change dramatically. Without teeth to support your face, it begins to droop and sag, making you look older.

Dental Implants Defined

One solution for tooth replacement is dental implants in The Woodlands. Dental implants are titanium screws that replace the root of the tooth with a porcelain crown permanently affixed. They’re a superior choice for tooth replacement for several reasons:

●      Improved appearance. Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth.

●      Improved speech. Dental implants allow you to speak without the worry that teeth might slip.

●      Easier eating. Dental implants allow you to eat your favorite foods with confidence.

●      Improved self-esteem. Dental implants can give you back your smile and help you feel better about yourself.

●      Durability. With good care, many implants last a lifetime.

●      Convenience. Dental implants eliminate the inconvenience of removing dentures, as well as the need for messy adhesives to keep them in place.

If you have missing teeth, call Dr. Shirley Cagle at our Woodlands dental office to discuss all of your tooth replacement options, including dental implants.