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Many people don’t like going to the dentist for anything other than a checkup, but you’re probably going to need dental work at some point. It may be a simple filling or a crown, bridge, or root canal, and you’ll get the work done with an anesthetic so you can’t feel anything. The worst part of the entire process, for many people, is getting the anesthetic to numb up your mouth.

Traditional anesthetic is a dreadful process for some who don’t like long needles. A newer alternative is the Wand STA. It’s a system that has a pen-like device for administering the anesthesia. This wand is connected to hardware that looks like a small computer tower.

Pain with Using the Wand STA versus Traditional Anesthetic

The pain you may feel when the dentist injects you with traditional anesthetic actually isn’t due entirely to the needle. It’s the result of the anesthesia being injected too quickly. With the Wand STA, this isn’t a problem. The system is designed to inject the anesthesia more slowly so you don’t feel the pain.

Control of the Wand STA versus Traditional Anesthetic

Dentists who use traditional anesthetic are entirely responsible for controlling the entire operation. They’re very well-trained, but there is always room for human error. You can end up with unnecessary pain if the anesthetic is administered too quickly. The Wand STA control tower connects to the pen-like wand and automatically controls the rate at which the anesthetic is administered. Because of its small size, it’s also helpful in working on places in the mouth that are harder to reach.

What are the drawbacks of the Wand STA?

It is natural to wonder why all dentists don’t use the Wand STA in their offices if it’s easier for them and more comfortable to use. So, what’s the catch? Actually, there isn’t one for patients. The only reasons not to use the Wand STA are related to drawbacks for dentists and staff, mostly from a cost and training standpoint.

Of course, Dr. Robert Wortzel and our team stop at nothing to provide our patients with the very best, regardless of the cost to us. That’s why the Wand STA is something we offer to all our patients at our Mountainside, NJ office.

Our team at Wortzel Integrative Dental Care understands that the sights, sounds and sensations at a dental office can be unsettling for some patients. One effective technique that we use to comfort you is to offer the gas nitrous oxide. Nitrous oxide is a common anesthetic used during many dental procedures.

What is nitrous oxide?

Nitrous oxide is an oxide of nitrogen which has a slight sweet odor and taste. During medical or dental procedures, the gas is mixed with oxygen then inhaled through a mask that covers your nose. Within minutes, you should feel calm and experience an overall sense relaxation. You will be able to breathe on your own, move your limbs, and be conscious enough to hear and respond to our dentist's questions. The effects of nitrous oxide disappear shortly after the mask is removed and the drug is quickly eliminated from your body.

Is nitrous oxide safe?

Recreational use of nitrous oxide for its euphoric effects can be dangerous, however, the drug is combined with oxygen at dental offices. This ensures oxygen reaches the brain and prevents dangerous side effects or hypoxia. Nitrous oxide inhalation is a safe and effective technique to reduce anxiety, produce analgesia, and enhance effective communication.

Nitrous oxide is non-addictive and non-allergic, however, it may cause nausea in up to ten percent of patients. The drug is not recommended for people with some medical conditions such as chronic pulmonary disease. We recognize that all patients are different and encourage you to talk with Dr. Robert Wortzel about whether nitrous oxide would be a good option for you.

Our team wants to help all patients in Mountainside, NJ to overcome dental anxiety, so please, give us a call at Wortzel Integrative Dental Care.

Dr. Robert Wortzel, as well as our team at Wortzel Integrative Dental Care, would like to give those patients with flex spend, health savings, or insurance benefits a friendly end of the year reminder that it’s high time to schedule your dental visits so you optimize your benefit.

Now is the time to reserve your appointment with us. Space is limited and we tend to get busy around the holidays, so don’t wait to give us a call at our convenient Mountainside, NJ office!

Enjoy this fun, quick, and EASY back-to-school snack!

Everyone in the family will love these smile treats!

Healthfully Yours,

Wortzel Integrative Dental Care

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