Frequently Asked Questions

Botox

Can I return to normal activities after Botox treatment?

No downtime is required after the minimally invasive procedure, so you can resume normal activities right away. For a day or two, patients may experience mild swelling or tenderness at injection sites, but this does not interfere with their daily activities.

How does Botox therapy complement other dental treatments?

Botox therapy eliminates barriers to successful orthodontic outcomes and surgical recovery by relaxing overactive facial muscles. The treatment reduces muscular tension during dental implant procedures and other interventions, leading to improved patient comfort and expedited healing times. Botox also serves as a valuable adjunct to cosmetic dentistry, addressing muscle-related concerns to achieve a more rejuvenated smile.

How is Botox used in dentistry?

Botox therapy uses FDA-approved botulinum toxin to reduce the sensitivity of excessive facial and jaw muscles. Providing both functional relief and cosmetic enhancement, this therapy effectively addresses chronic jaw pain, teeth grinding, and aesthetic concerns like gummy smiles.

How quickly will I see results from Botox therapy?

It may take 1-2 weeks for the full therapeutic effects to develop in some patients, but some notice improvements within a few days. The targeted muscles will gradually relax, resulting in less morning soreness, less grinding, and improved facial aesthetics.

Is dental Botox treatment painful?

Through careful injection techniques using the smallest gauge needles, Dr. Izvernari prioritizes your comfort throughout the treatment process. Patients consistently report minimal sensitivity, describing it as a momentary pinch, during the quick 15-30 minute procedure in our tranquil, patient-centered facility.

What conditions can be treated with dental Botox?

Botox is often used to treat TMJ disorders, bruxism, and masseter hypertrophy, as well as to correct gummy smiles and provide orthodontic support. The procedure also enhances surgical recovery by reducing muscle activity around the treatment area, so that patients can simultaneously treat multiple oral health issues at the same time.

Who is a good candidate for dental Botox therapy?

Patients with chronic jaw pain, frequent teeth grinding, TMJ disorders, or aesthetic concerns like gummy smiles that have not responded well to conventional treatments are ideal candidates. To determine whether Botox therapy will benefit you, Dr. Izvernari evaluates your symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals during your consultation. Certain neurological conditions and pregnant or breastfeeding women are ineligible for the treatment.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Can I whiten porcelain veneers?

No. Porcelain veneers are made of a highly stain-resistant material that is not affected by teeth whitening procedures. Porcelain veneers will almost never need to be whitened. If your veneers are discolored, we can replace them.

Does getting porcelain veneers hurt?

No. The treatment is similar to getting a tooth filled. You will feel no pain, and you may not even need to get your mouth numbed. This will depend on the placement of the veneer and other factors.

Does Orthosnap hurt during treatment?

Clear aligners will take some time to get used to, but should not cause constant pain. You may initially feel a little discomfort while your teeth get used to wearing Orthosnap.

How can composite resin bonding be used in the smile?

Composite resin bonding is an excellent solution for the following dental problems:

  • Straighten the appearance of a crooked tooth
  • Whiten stained or discolored teeth
  • Reshape a misshapen tooth
  • Close gaps between the teeth
  • Fix chipped teeth

How many porcelain veneers can I get at once?

You can get as many dental veneers as you need. There is no limit to how many you can get, but the procedure may be spread over a couple of days. Alternatively, you can combine porcelain veneer treatment with other cosmetic dental procedures for a full smile makeover.

Is Orthosnap the same as Invisalign?

Yes, they are essentially the same teeth straightening system, but that’s where the comparison ends. Invisalign is the original clear aligner system. Orthosnap aligners are thinner than Invisalign, but that can make them more delicate. There are many factors to consider in order to compare the two options.

What are the benefits of invisible braces?

Orthosnap aligners are designed with the patients' aesthetic and comfort in mind. Orthosnap aligners are custom-made to fit snugly over the teeth, allowing for a portable, effective solution for a wide range of orthodontic issues. As an Orthosnap provider, our team works with each patient to create a treatment plan that is right for them. The benefits of invisible braces include:

  • Comfortable
  • Discreet
  • Overbite
  • No dietary restrictions
  • Removable
  • Reduces tooth decay

As the aligners are removable, you can take them out for eating, brushing, and flossing, and even for an important meeting or event. There are no diet restrictions, so you will be able to enjoy your favorite foods throughout the treatment. Say hello again to apples and sticky sweets!

What is the difference between invisible braces and metal braces?

Straightening your teeth will support long-term dental health in addition to providing the smile you have always wanted. Invisible braces alleviate many of the hassles associated with traditional metal braces. Metal braces are very noticeable and unsightly. Oftentimes, food gets caught in the metal braces, causing embarrassing situations, especially for adults. You are very limited in your food choices with metal braces. Braces are permanently attached to your teeth, where they will remain for 6 months up to 3 years, making it difficult to brush your teeth and maintain proper oral hygiene. Metal braces are comprised of brackets that are bonded to your teeth, then those brackets are connected with a thin metal wire, which can often cause discomfort.

Which whitening method should I choose?

We encourage every patient to visit the Double A Dental Group office to discuss which option will suit their unique needs. Dr. Izvernari will take the time to better explain both treatments to the patient and the pros and cons of each one. Both the patient and the dentist will work together to choose the best possible solution. Patients seeking a more economical solution tend to select the at-home whitening kits. However, they need to understand that results are slower than with the in-office treatment.

Will insurance cover porcelain veneers?

No. Dental insurance rarely covers elective cosmetic procedures. They may cover part of the treatment if the veneers are used to repair chipped and broken teeth. Contact your specific provider for details about your dental insurance plan.

Will Orthosnap cause speech issues?

You may have a lisp at first while becoming accustomed to talking with Orthosnap. You will get used to wearing them, and the lisp should go away.

Will Orthosnap stain my teeth?

No. Orthosnap does not contain harmful chemicals that can cause tooth staining. Your clear aligners can not harm your teeth this way. Although it is possible to stain the clear aligners! Remember to always remove your aligners before eating. Refrain from drinking coffee and wine with your aligners on.

Crowns & Bridges

Can I eat normally with crowns and bridges?

You can eat, drink, and speak comfortably with crowns and bridges, which restore both function and appearance. The implant-supported options provide a particularly stable function during normal daily activities without any special restrictions or slippage risks.

How long do crowns and bridges last?

High-quality materials are used to make crowns and bridges, which are durable, long-lasting solutions. The right dental care and regular dental visits can ensure that your teeth function and look their best for many years to come. Depending on your oral health and maintenance routine, they can last a long time.

How many visits does it take to get a dental crown?

Two visits to our dental office are typically required to receive dental crowns. If you are getting your crown placed with our CAD/CAM technology, we can use digital impressions to design, mill, and place your new crown in one visit.

Is the crown or bridge procedure painful?

During the procedure, the affected area is numbed with a local anesthetic. Patients with dental anxiety and fear may also benefit from sedation dentistry to make the procedure more comfortable.

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth with a custom-made restoration. The anchoring of dental bridges can be made more stable with the use of existing teeth, or the replacement of missing teeth can be made more stable with dental implants. It is designed in such a way that it fits comfortably and securely within the mouth and feels natural.

What is a dental crown?

A dental crown is a cap that covers damaged or broken teeth in order to strengthen them. Crowns can be made of ceramic or porcelain materials that blend in seamlessly with your natural teeth.

What's the difference between implant-supported and traditional bridges?

Traditional bridges are supported by adjacent teeth that serve as anchors, requiring existing teeth to be compromised for crown placement. Implant-secured bridges are supported by strategically placed dental implants, which don't compromise existing teeth and prevent bone loss while supporting natural bite alignment.

Dental Hygiene

How do I limit my risk of gum disease at home?

You can take steps to reduce your risk of the disease at home. For example, you should brush and floss thoroughly every day. Doing so removes food particles from the teeth, which bacteria need to break down to cause plaque buildup and gum inflammation. In addition, if you smoke or use tobacco products, we recommend quitting right away. If you have any questions about avoiding periodontal disease, please contact our office today.

How often should I schedule dental cleanings and checkups?

Regular dental visits are essential to maintaining your oral health. Early detection of dental problems saves money over time, since minor problems are less costly to treat than major ones. During your comprehensive assessment, Dr. Izvernari will determine a visit frequency that is tailored to your oral health condition and periodontal therapy needs.

Is periodontal therapy painful?

No, periodontal therapy is not a painful process. For example, scaling and root planning is a process that deep-cleans your gums, and is comparable to a deep gum massage for your mouth. We will use local anesthesia if necessary and can also recommend oral sedation options.

What are the common signs of gum disease?

The common signs of gum disease are:

  • Bleeding gums
  • Swollen gums
  • Gum irritation
  • Change in the bite or dentures
  • Loose or shifting teeth
  • Halitosis (persistent bad breath)
  • Tooth loss

What causes gum disease?

Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the gum tissue. Gum disease occurs when plaque and tartar are not properly removed from the teeth and make their way to the gum line. Once at the gum line, plaque and tartar can irritate the gums. Deep pockets form around the teeth, causing the teeth to pull away from the gums, allowing bacteria to harbor and compromise the gum tissue and bone structure.

If you notice any signs of gum disease, schedule a visit to our Montclair-based office. Early detection and diagnosis are one of the best tools to have when treating gum disease.

What if I don’t get my bleeding gums fixed?

Since bleeding gums are a sign of periodontal disease, you open yourself up to more risk of getting infections, oral cancer, and losing teeth. Sometimes your gums bleed because you brush your teeth too hard, but it’s not always the case. Visit your dentist to find the exact cause of your bleeding gums.

What periodontal therapy treatments are available?

Dr. Izvernari determines your periodontal treatment plan based on the severity of your gum disease. Gum inflammation (gingivitis) can be treated effectively with antibacterial mouthwashes. Intensive cleaning methods such as scaling and root planing address plaque and tartar deposits in deep gum areas. Laser treatment eliminates harmful bacteria and encourages natural tissue repair without requiring stitches or healing time. Serious cases may necessitate surgical intervention to restore damaged gum and tooth structures.

Dental Implants

Am I a candidate for dental implants?

Most people qualify for dental implants, and there is no maximum age limit. Essentially, you need to be healthy enough for surgery and have sufficient bone structure to support the implant. For people who suffer from bone loss, our team may recommend bone grafting to ensure the success of your dental implants.

Do I need to replace my missing tooth?

It is important to replace any missing teeth. Not only will you be embarrassed to smile, but it can also lead to more issues. A missing tooth will cause your teeth to shift towards the gap. This can cause issues with your bite and painful TMJ disorders. People with missing teeth also have a greater chance of suffering from gum disease, tooth decay, and additional tooth loss. 

How long do dental implants last?

If you choose to get dental implants, you must be committed to good oral hygiene habits for the rest of your life to ensure their longevity. This includes brushing and flossing regularly and visiting our dental office every six months. With proper care, your implants can last a lifetime.

How long does the implant process take?

The process to have your implant secured restoration placed can take up to nine months and sometimes longer if you need significant dental work completed before having the implants surgically placed. After the implant(s) are placed, they will need time to fuse with the surrounding bone and heal. This can take up to three to six months. Next, the abutment will be attached to the implant, and impressions will be taken and used to fabricate your dental restoration. About two to three weeks later, the final restoration will be placed.

How much do dental implants cost?

The industry average cost for an implant-secured dental crown is around $4,000. This is the total cost of the entire process, including the surgical placement of the implant, the abutment, the crown, and all the appointments involved. This is for a single missing tooth, and the cost will go up for multiple missing teeth.

How will dental implants benefit my oral health?

When compared to other dental restorations, dental implants are the best option for your oral health. Implants are the only option available that replace the tooth at the root. This will prevent bone loss and all the negative effects of that. They are also more durable, allowing the patient to eat a healthier diet with few restrictions. Implants also do not require healthy teeth to be reduced, like a tooth-supported dental bridge does.

What is a dental implant?

An implant is a biocompatible titanium post that is placed into the jawbone. Secured to the implant will be the dental restoration. For patients missing just one tooth, a single implant will be placed, and a dental crown will be secured to it. For multiple missing teeth, anywhere from two to eight implants may be placed, and a dental bridge, partial denture, or denture will be secured to them. The type of restoration and number of implants you will need depend on the location and number of missing teeth.

Dentures

Can anyone get dentures?

Yes, just about anyone can qualify for dentures. Before getting them, your dentist will evaluate your mouth and recommend that any underlying issues, such as gum disease, be treated first. This will create a healthy foundation for your dentures and ensure a lasting result.

Can dentures be secured with dental implants?

Dental implants can be used to anchor dentures to ensure a more stable fit. These advanced dentures will feel more comfortable and natural than traditional dentures, since they won't feel loose or slip.

Can I get dentures the same day I get teeth extracted?

You will receive temporary dentures (same-day dentures) to wear before we can create your final custom denture. They are a placeholder that will prevent your gums from receding before we can place your final restoration.

How do I care for my dentures?

Dentures need routine cleaning and careful handling as part of your daily oral hygiene. Maintaining them properly will help them to retain their appearance and fit over time, as well as prevent potential complications when they are worn.

How long does it take to get used to dentures?

Getting used to your dentures may take some time, as they might feel bulky or loose initially. There will be a change in your eating habits and speaking habits during this time. After a while, your mouth becomes accustomed to eating and speaking with dentures, and they begin to feel more natural.

What should I do if I have a broken denture?

If your denture is damaged in any way, stop using it and visit our dental office for a repair or a new denture. Damaged dentures can cause more harm to your mouth if worn incorrectly. They can cause lacerations, damage to your gums, and infections.

What's the difference between full and partial dentures?

Conventional full dentures replace all teeth in an arch after complete healing from extractions, which could take several weeks. Partial dentures are used when not all of your teeth need to be removed and function similarly to a bridge, but are not permanently fixed in your mouth.

Dermal Fillers

Are dermal filler treatments painful?

Dr. Izvernari uses techniques to ensure your comfort during the minimally invasive procedure. Our professional environment makes patients feel comfortable throughout the treatment process, and most patients find that the procedure is well-tolerated with minimal discomfort.

How do dermal fillers work with dental treatments?

Dr. Izvernari ensures that every filler treatment harmonizes with your existing dental work while achieving refined, natural results. By strategically placing soft tissue volume, fillers can enhance orthodontic and prosthetic treatments for optimal aesthetic results.

How long do dermal filler results last?

The use of dermal fillers provides immediate improvements in the volume and definition of the lips, as well as reducing fine lines. Depending on your response and the treatment area, you will be able to experience enhanced confidence and overall facial harmony for months to come.

How soon can I return to normal activities after treatment?

The procedure is quick and painless, allowing you to return to your daily activities shortly after treatment. Almost all patients see immediate improvements to their smiles that preserve their natural features while beautifully framing their smiles.

What are dermal fillers?

A dermal filler is a minimally invasive treatment that restores volume around your mouth and reduces fine lines around your lips. Their purpose is to complement your dental care by enhancing facial features that affect your smile's appearance and help boost your self-confidence.

What areas can be treated with dermal fillers?

Filler treatments include lip transformation for fuller, more defined lips, facial renewal for smooth smile lines and nasolabial creases, gingival enhancement to combat gum recession concerns, and structural refinement for the chin and jawline.

What makes dermal fillers effective for smile enhancement?

Because dermal fillers address the facial features that directly impact how your smile appears, they are exceptionally effective for enhancing your smile. Fillers restore volume around the mouth, smooth lines around the lips, and enhance lip shape and fullness to create a more youthful appearance.

Emergency Dentistry

Can you treat cracked or broken teeth?

Our dentists treat fractures and cracked teeth of all sizes, from minor chips to severe breaks. If damage to your tooth is severe, you may need to undergo dental bonding, a crown, or root canal therapy. Every case is evaluated individually to determine the most appropriate restoration method.

Do you offer same day emergency appointments?

Urgent cases are often accommodated the same day. During a dental emergency, we will schedule an appointment as soon as possible and provide you with immediate advice over the phone.

Do you offer sedation for emergency treatments?

We offer sedation dentistry for patients with dental anxiety and sensitive teeth. Dental emergencies can be particularly traumatic, so we offer clinical treatment as well as emotional support to make sure you feel comfortable.

What constitutes a dental emergency?

Dental emergencies include knocked-out teeth, severe tooth pain, cracked or fractured teeth, infected teeth, intense jaw pain, and broken temporary restorations. When you suffer severe pain, bleeding, or are at risk of losing a tooth, you should contact Dr. Izvernari and our team right away.

What do you do for severe tooth pain?

Intense dental pain typically signals an infection that has reached the tooth's nerve. Our team provides a prompt evaluation to identify the cause of your pain. For fast, effective relief, emergency root canal therapy or antibiotics may be recommended depending on the severity of the infection.

What if my crown or filling falls out?

You should contact our office immediately if you notice that one or more of your crowns, fillings, or other dental work has fallen out or has become loose. If your tooth is suffering from severe damage or sensitivity, an emergency restoration can be replaced or re-cemented to protect it from more damage and sensitivity.

What should I do if my tooth gets knocked out?

Time is critical with knocked-out teeth. Handle the tooth by the crown, rinse gently with water if dirty, and try to place it back in the socket if possible. If not, store it in milk or saliva and contact our office immediately. The first hour is crucial for successful reimplantation.

Endodontics

Can a root canal treatment be painful?

Modern anesthesia techniques make root canal procedures relatively painless. Prior to starting the treatment, a local anesthetic is administered to completely numb the area. Sedation options are also available for patients who are nervous or stressed about their treatment.

Can I eat normally after a root canal?

You will receive specific aftercare instructions from Dr. Izvernari after your root canal procedure. Following these guidelines will ensure proper healing of your teeth after the procedure, as well as let you know when you may resume normal eating habits.

How long does a root canal treatment take?

The procedure includes removing diseased pulp tissue, cleaning the tooth's interior chambers, and filling them with restorative material. After that, a custom-designed dental crown is applied to restore the tooth. If you have specific timeline concerns, Dr. Izvernari will discuss them with you.

How successful are root canal treatments?

A root canal is a highly effective method of saving compromised teeth, with an excellent success rate. Rather than removing the natural tooth structure, patients can preserve it with endodontic treatment. The procedure can reduce discomfort and help you maintain a healthy smile.

What causes the need for a root canal treatment?

Root canals are necessary when the pulp inside your tooth becomes inflamed or infected. The pulp chamber can become infected by bacteria and germs due to decay, cracks in the tooth, and major tooth trauma. Pulpitis is a painful infection that requires immediate attention.

What happens if I don't get a root canal?

The infection will continue to spread and cause increasing pain without root canal treatment. Root canals remove infection and stop bacteria from spreading, ultimately preventing tooth extraction and preserving your natural smile.

What symptoms may indicate that I need root canal treatment?

Some common symptoms that may indicate the necessity for a root canal treatment include:

  • Severe tooth pain that progresses over time, as well as tooth sensitivity
  • Tender or swollen gums near an infection site and bad breath
  • A pimple filled with pus around the gum
  • Jawbone abscess detected by X-ray
  • Darkening of a tooth

Laser Dentistry

Are there any limitations to laser dentistry?

There are some limitations to laser dentistry, despite its many advantages. The use of lasers is not suitable for all dental procedures, including those with metal fillings, cavities between teeth, and teeth with metal fillings. Laser treatment may be recommended by your dentist depending on the condition being treated.

Does laser dentistry cost more than traditional treatment?

The cost of laser dentistry is usually not significantly higher than that of traditional dental procedures in most cases. The majority of insurance plans cover laser treatments if they are medically necessary. It may actually be more cost-effective in the long run, since it can reduce recovery time and require fewer follow-up visits.

Does laser dentistry hurt?

Most patients find laser dental procedures to be painless. Because of the laser's precision, there is less tissue trauma, and many patients report that the treatment is virtually painless. Despite some mild discomfort depending on the procedure, laser dentistry is generally less painful than drilling.

How long is the recovery time after laser dental treatment?

Laser dentistry usually takes less time to recover from than traditional dental procedures. The precision of laser treatment reduces tissue damage, bleeding, and swelling. Compared to conventional dental surgery, most patients are able to return to normal activities sooner, and healing times are generally shorter.

Is laser dentistry safe?

Dental lasers are very safe when used by dentists who have been properly trained. The FDA has approved lasers for use in several dental treatments. To ensure the safety of their patients and staff, dentists wear protective eyewear during laser procedures.

What dental problems can lasers treat?

Dental lasers can treat many conditions, including gum disease, cavities, gum reshaping, cold sores, teeth whitening, soft tissue growth removal, and hardening dental fillings. A laser, however, cannot fill cavities or replace fillings that already exist in a tooth.

What is laser dentistry?

Laser dentistry replaces dental drills and surgical instruments with focused light beams. This treatment can address a wide range of dental problems, such as removing decay, reshaping gums, and treating specific tissues. Compared to traditional tools, it's a modern, FDA-approved alternative.

Pediatric Dentistry

Are primary teeth important?

Your children's baby teeth play several roles, including enabling them to chew solid food. The primary teeth hold space for the permanent teeth and serve as a placeholder within the gums to facilitate healthy oral development. They also play a key role in your child's speech development. Keeping the primary teeth healthy sets the stage for a growing smile that is stable, balanced, and naturally functional. If your child loses or damages a primary tooth, it is important to address it as soon as possible to avoid more complex problems down the road.

Can thumb sucking be harmful to my child’s teeth?

If a child is sucking a thumb or pacifier when the permanent teeth arrive, it may lead to biting alignment problems or crooked teeth. Children usually stop thumb sucking before preschool age. Discouraging your child from sucking their thumb early on can prevent many dental health problems.

How can I help my child develop good oral hygiene habits?

The most common dental concern for younger patients is cavities. We will work closely with your child to teach them proper brushing, flossing, and oral hygiene. By instilling healthy habits at an early age, children will be more likely to continue them as they grow and learn. Keeping your child's teeth and gums healthy can promote a healthy, functional smile for years to come.

What do I do if a permanent tooth is knocked out?

Be sure not to irritate the area. Find the tooth and put it in a cup of milk or water. Contact Double A Dental Group as soon as possible. In some cases, the permanent tooth can be saved if handled in a timely fashion. Our experienced team will work with you to restore your smile and find the right solution for you.

What do I do if my child has a tooth ache?

If your child is experiencing a toothache, be sure to contact Double A Dental Group in Montclair, CA. Our dental care team can work with your child to identify the cause of pain and create a treatment plan. In the meantime, apply a cold compress to the cheek.

What pediatric dental services do you offer?

We provide a full range of pediatric dental services, including orthodontics, dental fillings, X-rays as needed, gentle dental cleaning, complete oral health exams, routine screenings for cavities, dental sealants, and patient education. Building strong patient-dentist relationships, educating patients, and promoting preventive dental care are our top priorities.

When should my child first visit the dentist?

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, your child should have his or her first dental appointment before their first birthday or six months after their first tooth appears. Dr. Izvernari will have the opportunity to monitor your child's oral development from the very first visit and establish a comfortable, trusting relationship with them that will benefit them for the rest of their lives.

Sedation Dentistry

Can I drive home after receiving sedation?

It depends on the type of sedation that is used during the procedure. If you receive oral sedation, you are not allowed to drive and must arrange for someone to drive you to and from your appointment. You can normally drive yourself home after Nitrous oxide sedation, although we suggest discussing this with Dr. Izvernari before doing so.

How should I prepare for oral conscious sedation?

Oral conscious sedation requires you to take the prescribed pill exactly an hour before your appointment. It is essential that you arrange transportation to and from our office, since you will not be able to drive. It is also recommended that you avoid eating large meals before your appointment and follow any additional instructions provided by Dr. Izvernari.

Is sedation dentistry painful?

No, you will not feel pain during the procedure with the oral conscious sedation method or nitrous oxide. You may feel aches and pains following treatment, which can be assuaged with pain medication.

What are the benefits of sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry offers benefits to patients and dentists alike. Sedation dentistry:

  • Enhances the effectiveness of the local anesthetic
  • Decreases the gag reflex
  • Alleviates anxiety
  • Eliminates joint and muscle soreness
  • Enables more treatment to be provided in fewer visits
  • Allows the dentist to complete procedures in a timely manner
  • You won’t suffer from painful memories and trauma

Patients can feel comfortable and relaxed during treatment, and dentists can perform treatment faster. It’s a win-win for all involved.

What should I expect during nitrous oxide sedation?

Nitrous oxide is a colorless, odorless gas you breathe through a small, comfortable nasal mask. An immediate feeling of relaxation and euphoria is created by the calming effects of the drug. It is common for patients to have little or no memory of their treatment. Once the mask is removed, the effects completely disappear, allowing you to resume normal activities.

What types of sedation dentistry do you offer?

A patient can choose from two forms of sedation: oral conscious sedation or nitrous oxide sedation. During oral conscious sedation, you will take a prescription medication one hour prior to your visit, which will enable you to relax and feel drowsy during your treatment. During the procedure, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is delivered through a comfortable nasal mask, creating a calm, euphoric state with little memory of what happened.

Will I be conscious during dental sedation?

Both types of sedation available will keep you conscious and able to respond to instructions. If you receive oral conscious sedation, you will feel drowsy with heavy arms and legs, but you will still be awake and able to move around. During a nitrous oxide procedure, you remain relaxed and calm while remaining fully conscious.

Tooth Extractions

Can I eat after having a tooth extracted?

Like any other procedure, you’ll want to follow your doctor's recommendations, as they will be aware of any activities you may want to avoid within the first few hours of having a tooth removed. A typical recommendation is to eat only soft foods for the first 24 hours.

Do I need to replace my extracted tooth?

After you have a tooth extracted, it is very important to replace it. Even one missing tooth will have negative effects on your oral health. The surrounding teeth will begin to shift towards the void, and bone will begin to deteriorate. Your options include a dental bridge, a partial denture, or a denture. Our team will recommend dental implants to replace your extracted tooth or teeth, as they are the most natural-looking and advanced solution when compared to other teeth restoration options.

Does getting a tooth pulled hurt?

Patients undergo local anesthesia when they have a tooth extracted. This results in feeling movement and pressure as the dentist undertakes the procedure, but the benefit is feeling no pain throughout the process.

How long do teeth extractions take?

The process of removing a single tooth can take 20-40 minutes from start to finish. Obviously, the more teeth you have removed, the more time this can take. Consider adding an additional 5-10 minutes per extra tooth.

How should I take care of myself after a tooth extraction?

You should avoid smoking, rinsing, or drinking through a straw for at least 24 hours because it can dislodge the clot, delay healing, and lead to dry socket. A small amount of bleeding is considered normal. Our team will supply detailed aftercare instructions to promote a healthy, speedy recovery. Most patients recover fully within a day or two after the procedure.

What should I expect during the extraction procedure?

The extraction of a tooth is usually performed under local anesthesia. To make your experience more comfortable, our team can provide dental sedation if necessary. An extraction is performed by gently removing the tooth from the socket, followed by careful cleaning and suturing. Blood clots help stop bleeding and start the healing process.

When is tooth extraction necessary?

Tooth extraction is commonly performed to address a severely damaged tooth. Many dentists consider tooth extractions as a last resort. Dr. Izvernari will perform an evaluation to determine if the tooth can be restored with root canal therapy first. Tooth extractions may be necessary for overcrowded teeth, damaged teeth, diseased teeth, or impacted wisdom teeth.