Discussing Pain Control with a Northridge Dentist

If you’re one of the people who fear dental paint, you ought to know that there are now modern techniques for pain control which you can freely discuss with your Northridge dentist. These include:

1. Topical Anesthesia. A topical medication is applied on the affected area using a Q-tip in order to numb that area, more commonly the gums. This is usually a step that precedes the use of local anesthesia.

2. Electronic Anesthesia. There are several studies that expose the harmful effects of injecting local anesthetics, so modern dentists developed the use of electronic anesthesia as a safer alternative. In this procedure, the Northrdige dentist applies electrodes on the cheeks, transmitting an electric current that numbs the area. Today there are many patients who prefer this method over injection of local anesthetic.

3. Nitrous oxide. More commonly known as “laughing gas”, nitrous oxide is one of the well-known substances used for pain control in dental offices and clinics. The gas could initiate a feeling of relaxation, or even brief euphoria. Once the gas is turned off, the effect wears off quickly. Although it is only used as a supplemental pain control method, it is still an effective way to relieve the pain experience.

4. Laser drills. Instead of using conventional mechanical drills, laser drills are good alternatives in preparing your cavities for dental filling. They cause much lesser pain, thus lowering your anxiety levels.

5. Cranial electrotherapy stimulation. A type of electronic anesthesia, this one allows a small amount of electric current to pass into the brain instead of the cheeks. You are the one who will control the current’s intensity.