PATIENT INFORMATION

Pain Management

At MINT, your comfort is one of our greatest concerns. There is no reason to be anxious about suffering any pain during or after your visit. Whether it's a simple cleaning or a complex procedure, the doctors at MINT employ several different technologies to ensure your complete comfort.

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous Oxide has been the the primary means of sedation in dentistry for many years. It is a sweet-smelling, non-irritating, colorless gas which you can breathe. Nitrous oxide is safe, the patient receives oxygen with no more than 60% nitrous oxide.You are able to breathe on your own and remain in control of all bodily functions. In some cases patients can fall asleep.

Reasons to use Nitrous Oxide

  • The depth of sedation can be altered at any time to increase or decrease sedation.
  • There is no after effect such as a "hangover". Nitrous is metabolized in a few breaths.
  • Inhalation sedation is safe with no side effects on your heart and lungs, etc.
  • Inhalation sedation is very effective in minimizing gagging.
  • It works rapidly as it reaches the brain within 20 seconds. In as little as 2-3 minutes its relaxation and pain killing properties develop.

You should not utilize Nitrous Oxide if you have been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Though there are no other major contraindications to using nitrous oxide, you may not want to use it if you have emphysema, chest problems, M.S., a cold or other difficulties with breathing. The doctors at Mint would be happy to give you a "5 minute trial" to see how you feel on nitrous oxide.

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation is a wonderful experience for our patients who may otherwise feel anxiety about a dental procedure. Oral Sedation is a simple pill that you would take an hour before your visit. A companion drives you to Mint Dentistry where by then, you will be feeling sleepy. One of our staff will take you to our high-tech procedure rooms where you most likely will fall asleep. After the procedure, you wake up refreshed, as if you've been to a spa! Once the dentist makes sure you are doing well, your companion will drive you home.

Reasons to use Oral Sedation

  • fear of dental work
  • a prior traumatic dental experience
  • difficulty getting numb
  • a bad gag reflex
  • very sensitive teeth
  • limited time to complete their dental care
  • complex dental problems
  • fear of needles and shots
  • feelings of embarrassment about their teeth
  • dislike of smells or tastes associated with dental care
  • a disability that precludes them from receiving additional dental services

Combination of Oral Sedation and Nitrous Oxide

Sometimes because of a patient's anxiety and the length of the procedure, MINT doctors may elect to use a combination of Oral Sedation and Nitrous Oxide. Again, a patient's comfort, safety and peace of mind will always be the driving forces in our decisions on pain management.