Of course not! Here is an example; Marsha V. from Naperville came in about 2 months ago. Her dental needs were extensive and had significant with difficulty sleeping last for over 3 months before coming into the office. We discussed all alternatives for both treatment and dental comfort. Marsha needed 8 crowns, 2 roots canals, 2 extractions, and several filling immediately.
She had delayed treatment for many many years with a high fear quotient. She wanted to try oral pill sedation.
Here’s the problem. After the traditional protocol of oral sedation was started, Marsha did NOT feel comfortable with starting the appointment. Her response was “I wanted to be less aware than this—can you give me more medicine?” The problem with being insufficiently comfortable with oral sedation is it takes 45-60 minutes for next dose to take effect. Then there is too little time to complete the treatment.
We decided to start IV sedation. The effect was immediate and we were able to complete treatment as planned. What would have been adequate oral medicine for many patients was completely insufficient for her.
But that was for extensive treatment. For her next cementation visit, we were able to finish with simple oral sedation. So here is another story of different protocols for different visits. EVERY PATIENT AND EVERY APPOINTMENT MUST BE CALIBRATED FOR INDIVIVUAL NEEDS AT ALL TIMES. Having all options is the key to providing this option.
Bio of Dr. Thomas R. Gibbs, DDS, FAGD, FDOCS, FICOI
Dr. Gibbs graduated at the University of Illinois School of Dentistry in 1980. He holds memberships in the: American Dental Association, Chicago Dental Society, Academy of General Dentistry, American Dental Society of Anesthesiology, Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and International Congress of Oral Implantologists.
He is one of the earliest members of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and has had training at some of the most prestigious training institutes such as the L.D. Panky Institute for Advanced Education, California Implant Institute, Misch International Implant Institute, and the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI).
He also has earned honorary fellowships in the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD), and the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (FICOI). In 2007 Dr. Gibbs achieved another honorary designation by receiving his certification in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS). This, along with substantial advanced education and case submission for pier review, has earned him an additional fellowship in the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation (FDOCS).
He provides general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, sedation services, and dental implants.
